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Full text of "A treatise of faith, divided into two parts : The first shewing the nature, The second, the life of faith: Both tending to direct the weake Christian how he may possesse the whole word of God as his owne, ouercome temptations, better his obedience, and live comfortably in all estates"

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ItreatiseI 

I      OF  FAITH.      I 

Divided  into  two  Parts : 


ii 

m 
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The  firft  Tliewing  the 
<  Nature, 

The  fecond ,  the  L  i  |f  e 
pf  F  A I  T  H  : 

Both  tending  to  dii«edtn6\veakc  Clinftian  how  he 
niaypofTcirefhew-hoIe.Word^Go  D  as  his 
owne,  overcome  <«rhftations,bctter 
his  obedience,  and  live  comfor- 
tably in  all  eftates. 

By  JOHN  BALL. 


Hab.  2.4. 
The  JufifljAU  live  bj  his  F^ith. 


The  third  Edition  corrc6ted  and  enlarged. 


LONDON!, 
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■<-.*  'f^  f^  s<f  >.^  s^  ►J  sj  '~<  >^  »«»V  •»«  »t'  "^  '^  •^^     ..  <  ^  ►wS  S.^  ^  ►«*  -^  -w* 

THE  PREFACE  TO 

THE    READER. 

Lorious  things  are  fp  ok  en  of  the 
grace  of  graces  (  Faith  )  m  the 
Scriptures ,  Godfetting  hmfelfc 
to  honour  that  grace  that  ye  elds 
up  all  the  honour  unto  hint  in 
Chrift  ;  who  indeed  is  the  life  of 
our  life^  andthefoule  ofmr  foule. 
Faith  oncly  as  the  bond  ofunioa 
bringcth  Chrifi  and^he  foulc  together  ^  and  is  as  an  ar- 
terie  that  convenes  the  fpirit  from  him  as  the  hearty  and 
as  the fmerves  which  con^ucj  the  fpirit  to  move  alidutie 
from  htm  as  head '^whence  Saint  Paul  makcth  Chrifs 
living  in  us^andour  living  by  faith  all  one  y  Gal.  2 .20. 
Now  that  winch  gtvethboldnejfe  and  liberty  '0  faith y 
ts  no  onely  Gods  afsignement  of  this  offce  to  it  tn  the 
covenant  of  grace  to  come  unto  Chrtft ,  and  unto  htm  in 
Chrifl ,  to  receive gr ace y  but  Itkewife  thegraciompro- 
mifes  whereby  the  great  God  hath  ingaged  hiinfilfe  as 
a  debtor  to  hts  poore  creature  ^  for  all  things  needful! 
to  life  and godlineffe ,  untillthat  blcfjedtime  when  we 
fhallbcput  into  afidlpojfefsion  of  II  things  we  have  now 
onely  in  promt fcy  when  faith  pal  I  end  tn  fruition,  and 
promt fcs  in  performance. 

^  *  2  Faith 


11-^7  3 


'^i-  / 


The  Preface  to  the  Reader, 


Fatth  frfl  Icokcs  to  this  rvordojp-cmife ,  and  tn  the 
j?romifc  to  Chrtjl^  tn  whom  and  for  xvhom^  they  are  Yea 
^WAmcn,  both  made  and  performed. And  in  Chriflit 
cyCih  God  in  whom  it  laft  reflethjas  its  proper  center  and 
foundation-^  ot hcrrvifc  how  jl)Ould  we  wcake fwfull crea- 
tures dare  to  have  any  intercourfe  with  God  that  dwel. 
leth  in  that  light  that  none  can  attain  unto^  if  he  had  not 
come  forth  andSfcovered  hisgoodpleafiiretn  Chrtfl  the 
fiihfantiall  Word,  and  in  the  word  infpired  hy  the  Holy 
Chjl  for  the  good  of thofe  whom  God  meant  for  to  make 
heires  offalvationf'  Now  thefc  promifcs  whereon  all  our 
prefent  comfort  and  future  hope  dcpendcthjie  hid  in  the 
Scriptures, as  ucincs  ofgoldandfilvcr  in  the  howclls  of 
the  earth,  and  had  need  bee  laid  open^  that  Cfds  people 
may  know  tvhat  upon  good  grounds  to  lay  clai?ne  unto. 
Thofe  therefore  that  je arch  thefc  Mynes  to  bring  to  light 
thefc  treafures,  deferve  well pf' Cods  Church.  We  com- 
mend (  and  not  without  can  (e)'thc  wittie  indnftry  of  thofe 
that  from  Springs  remote  bring  Rivers  to  Cities  ^and  by 
Pipes  from  thofe  Rivers  derive  "water  to  every  mans 
houfefor  all  domtf'ic all fer vices :  much  more  jlwuld  we 
ejlecmc  of  the  religions  paines  of  men  that  bring  thefe 
waters  of  life  home  for  every  mans  particular  ufe ,  tn 
all  the  pajj ages  and  turnings  of  this  life. 

Jn  which  regard^l  do  not  doubt,  but  the  paines  of  this 
godly,  paine fully  and  learned  man,  wtUfnd  good  enter, 
tainment  of  all  children  ofthepromifes  that  hope  to  inhe- 
rit them, who  hath  with  great  paines, and  with  good  evi- 
dence of fpirituall  underftanding,cndevouredto  cleare 
mofl  matters  concerningfaithy^ltkewifedifcoveredthe 
variety  andufeofthepromijes,with  teaching  Chrijlians 
hew  tO'improve  their  riches  tn  Chrift  here  fpread before 

them,. 


The  Preface  to  the  Reader. 


themjoovo  to  ufe  thejhieldoj  Faith^andthe  fwordofthe 
Spirit  upon  alloccaftons,  thatfo  they  might  not  one ly  bee 
heUevmgjhut  skilfuU  Chrifiiam,  knowing  how  to  man. 
sage  and  make  the  befl  advantage  of  their  faith,  and 
the  word  of  Faith.  Which  if  they  could  doe  ,  there  would 
another  manner  of  power  and  beauty  f}nne  in  their  lives  y 
than  doth. He  is  a  man  that  hath  formerly  defervedwell 
ofthe-Qhwvch. ,  hut  in  more Jpcci  all  manner  fitted  fir  a 
Treatife  of  this  nature ,  as  having  beene  put  to  tt ,  to 
know  by  e.>cpcrience  what  tt  is  to  live  by  faith ,  having 
in  fight  for  matters  of  this  life  very  little  whereupon  to 
depend,  Thofe  that  Are  driven  to  exercife  their  faith  j 
cannot  but  find  God  faith  full ^as  never  failing  thofe  that 
trufl  in  him.^  they  fee  more  of  God  than  others  doe, 

jf it  be  objeCfed  that  others  of  late  time  have  digged 
in  the  fame  my  ne.^  and  laboured  in  thefamcfeldjandto 
goodpurpofe  andficceffe :  lanfwer^  it  is  true^the  more 
this  age  is  bound  to  Cod  that  direds  theffints  of  men  to 
fo  ufefulljfoneceffary  an  argument  Seeing  without  faith 
wee  have  no  communion  with  the  fount  aine  of  life,  no- 
thing in  this  world  that  can  yeeld  fettled  comfort  to 
ground  the foule  upon  ^  feeing  without  itthefaireflcar. 
riage  is  but  emptie  and  dead  morality,  neither  finding 
acceptance  with  Cod^  nor  ye  elding  comfort  to  us  in  our 
greatefl  extremities, and  by  it  Codhimfelfe,and  Chrifl, 
with  all  that  he  hath  done,fuffered,  conquered,  be  corn- 
met  h  ours  and  for  our  ufe. Be  fides, none  that  J  know  have 
written  in  our  Language  jo  largely  of  this  argument  : 
and  (iichis  the  extent  andfpiritualnes  of  this  heavenly 
point, that  many  men  :^  of  the  greate^  graces  and  parts, 
may  with  great  benefit  to  the  Church,  dive  andaigflill  i 
into  this  my ferie.  Neither  let  any  except  againfl  the^ 

*  2  multitudel 


The  Preface  to  the  Reader. 


multitude  ofquotatio'/2s  ofScriptuns^theyare  brought  un. 
der  their  proper  head^  andfet  tn  their  proper  place, (!r  the 
matter  itfelfe  is  cut  out  into  variety  of  parts.  Store  (as 
rvee  ufe  to  fpeake)  is  no  fore  3  rve  count  tt  a  delight  to  take 
out  of  a  full  heape  3  the  more  light,  the  conviction  u  the 
flronger  •,  what  fit  es  not  at  one  time ,  will  futc  our fpirits 
andoccafions  at  another,  and  what  taketh  not  with  one , 
may  take  with  another.  But  the  full  and  well  handling 
of  matters  in  this  Treatife  caries  fuch  fattsfaclion  with 
it ,  that  it  frees  me  from  nee  efsitie  of  further  dtfcomfe , 
and  mine  owneprcfent  weakneffe  of  bodie  taketh  me  off. 
Oncly  I  was  willmg  to  yceldthat  teflimonic  to  the  fruit - 
full  paines  of  a  faithful!  labourer  in  Gods  Vineyard, 
that  Ipidgeit  dcferved.  Receive  tt  therefore,Chriflian 
Reader,  with  thanks  to  Godthat  flirreth  up  fuch  helpers 
of  that  faith  by  which  wee  liveffland.,  conquer^  and  in 
which  we  mtifi  die^ifwc  looke  to  receive  the  end  of  our 
faith,  thefalvation  of  our  Joules, 


RxCHAfiSllBES* 


(t/f  Table  of  the  principall  matters 

contained  in  this  fir  ft  J^art, 


C  H  A  p.  I. 

HOw  and  in  what  re- 
fpcfts  faith  is  nc- 
ccffary,Sc<ft.i.pa.  i 
Divers    acceptations 
of  the  word  faith, 
Scft.ip.ijj 
Of  divers  kinds  of  Faith ,  §  j 

Why  feme  kind  of  Faith  is  cal- 
led Hittoricall,  ibid. 

The  difference  betwixt  Faith  Mi- 
raculous and  Ordinary,    ibid. 

P4 

Why  true  Faith  is  called  Juftify- 
ing  or  faving  Faith,  ibid. 

In  what  phrafes  this  Faith  is  un- 
folded in  the  New  Teftamenr, 
P-4 

To  bcleeve  God ,  and  to  belccvc 
in  Godjdoe  in  Scripture  import 
one  and  the  fame  thing,      p.  j 

Not  the  habit  ("though  that  bee 
neceffary^  but  the  aft  and  cxcr- 
cife  of  faith  is  required,   §  ^  P* 

Chap.  II. 


fiis  Chriftjby  the  holy  Spirit,i$ 

the  authour  of  faith,  §  *  p.7>8 
Faith  is  a  gift  in  a  fpcciall  oaanner, 

moA  free  and  profitable,  ibid. 
How  wee  are  faid  to  receive  the 

Holy  Ghoft  by  Faith,       ibid. 
How  the  Spirit  is  obtained   by 

prayer,  p.? 

Faith  is  imperfedl,  though  a  work 

of  the  Spirit,  5  ?  P'9 

Faith  is  a  powcrfull  work  of  God 

ibid. 

How  God  produceth  faith,  §  4 

p.io,ii 

The  increafe  of  faith  is  of  God, 

p.iz 

Faith  is  the  gift  of  God  and  the 

aft  of  man,  §  ^  p.  n 

Faith  1$  wrought  by  the  Word, 

$<p.i3 

Encreafed  by  prayer,  and  ufc  of 

the  Sacraments,  p.  14 

Why  all  do  Hot  bcleeve  that  heare 

the  Word,  ibid. 

Though  faith  bee  the  gift  of  God , 

men  muft  ufe  the  mcancs  to 

obtaineit,  P'*4jM 

Chap.  III. 


WHat  Juftifying   faith  is,     pAith  prefuppofeth knowledge, 
§ip.7     r  §tp.i6,i7 

God  the  Father,  in  his  Sonne  Je-    It  captivates  our  underftanding 

*  4  unto 


A  Tabic  ofthefritteifullmntters 


unto  the  obedience  of  Chrift  , 
but  is  not  ignorant  of  Chrift, 
p.i<J,i7 
This  knowledge  muft  be  diftinft, 
found  and  ccrtaine,  p.  1 7 

In  what  refped  fjuh  may  be  caU 
led  imphcite  or  unfolded,  p.  18 
Faith  IS  an  allcnr,        $  1  p.19,20 
Bcleefe  hat'h  reference  to  fome  ut- 
tered word  or  revelation,  but 
maybe  fuftained  byothermo- 
tives  and  inducements,       p.19 
Faith  is  a  firme  alTent,  yetfome- 
titnes  accompanied  with  doub- 
ting, p.io 
Faith  is  an  abfolute  and  unlimi- 
ted aflent ,  and  yet  through  ig- 
norance and  infirmitic,  a  Chri- 
ftian  may    misbeleeve   many 
things  without  danger  of  dam- 
nation,                             p.2I,l2 
Faith  is  an  afient  in  a  fort  evident, 
p. 21, 23 
Faith  alfo  is  an  afTentinfome  fort 
difcurfive,                      p.2j,24 
Faith  is  an  affiance  or  confidence, 
§3p.i4,2y,&c. 
Confidence  as   it  doth  embrace 
Chrift  with  acertaine  affiance 
is  the  forme  of  faith:  as  it  be- 
■gettethin  us  quietncffe  of  con- 
(cicnce ,  and  confidence  of  li- 
berty,it  is  an  effcd  of  faith,    p. 

Confidence  is  oppofed  both   to 
doubting   and  diftruft,  p*3o, 

Faith  is  an obedicntiall affiance, 

§4P.r,3i,?3 

Faith   is  oppofed  not  oncly  to 

doubting  and  diffidence  :  but 

to  wavering,  double-minded- 

nefTe  ,  and  difobedience,  p.33 

Affiance  muft  be  well  rooted,  §  j 

P-?4 
It  mufl  bee  found  and    perma- 


nent, p.?4,jy 

Faith  is  an  over-ru'iing  alfiincc. 

Of  all   graces  faith  is  the  moft 

humble,  p-?^,?7 

Faithisafpiritualltafle,  §^p.37 

Faith  ad^uts  many  interruptions, 

p.  J  8 

Chap.   II 1 1. 

LOve  is  notthclifeorfouleof 
faith,  §  I  p.j8,3p,&c. 

It  is  faith  and  not  charitie  that 

gives  influence  to  ail    other 

graces ,  even  to  charirty  it  felfe, 

ibid. 

The  goodncfTeof  God  cannot  be 
the  objeft  of  our  charity  ,  but 
by  being  firft  the  objcd  of  our 
faith,  ibid. 

Charity  is  an  inftrument  unto 
faith  for  moving  andflirnng 
abroad  in  the  performance  of 
all  duties  recommended  unto 
us  ,  but  the  inward  or  efl':ntiall 
forme  offai  this  not,    p.40,41 

In  what  rcfpeds  charity  doth  ex- 

ccU faith,  and  faith  charitie, 

§ip.42,4j 

How  faith  is  pcrfcded  by  w^rkes, 

or  r  P«4»>4f 

Juftifying  faith  cannot  bee  with- 
out love,  §  jp.4y,4Cj,&c. 

How  the  afts  of  charity  are  faid 
to  be  of  faith,  P-4M^ 

Faith  temporary  and  jultifying 
differ  in  radication ,  foveraign- 
tie,and  working,  p.49 

The  firfl  and  radicall  union  with 
Chrifl  is  made  byfairh  only  : 
the  fecondaric  union  is  by 
meancs  of  the  affeftions,    p.  J  2 

They  that  worke  iniquity  have  no 

faith  to  beleeve  affuredly ,  that 

they  fhall  be  faved,  p.  y  j 

The 


contained  in  this  fir  ft  Part, 


The  faith  ot  Devils  comprehends 
the  fulneffe  and  perfcdion  of 
that  which  the  Romanifli  call 
Catholike  orChnftian   faith. 

Faith  alone  juftifieth ,  but  that 
faith  which  juftifieth,  is  not  a- 
lone,  p.  J 6,  J  7 

I 

Chap.  V. 

WHat  DoArines  arc  called 
matters  of  faith,  §   i  p. 

58 

Juftifying  faith  is  two  waycs  con- 

fidcred,  §zp.5?,f9 

According  to  the  twofold  ■  confi- 

deration  of  juftifying  fjith,the 

objcft  ofitis  twofold, p.5^, 60 

True  faith  refpedeth  the  whole 

Word  of  God,  ibidi 

As  the  doftrine  of  Creation,  §  3 

p.  60 

Providence.  itid. 

Mans  mifery  by  (inne,  p.cJi 

Myftcnes  of  godlincfle,ibid. 

I  The.promifesconcernine  Sanfti- 

.ficaUon  and  things  ofthislife, 

,  §4   p.Cl,62/j 

Why  faith  doth  put  forth  it  £t\h 
to  embrace  whatfoever  the 
Lord  promifeth,  p.6i,<5i 

It  is  very  ncceffary  to  ^beleeve  the 
promifes  concerning  fandifica- 
tion,  p.tfj 

It  is  neccfTaryto  beleevc  the  tem- 
poral! promifes,  P'*j>^4 

Faith  bcleeveth  the  threatnings, 

S   5p64 

Beliefe  of  the  threatnings  is  neccf- 
fary,  V'6^,6^ 

Faith  beleeveth  the  commande- 
ments,  §  tf  p.  d^jtj 

In  particular  pradiccs  the  faith- 
full  may  faile,  p.(S8 

The  obedience  of  faith   is  uni- 


form, entire,  and  conftant,  §  j 
p.68,6p  70 

The  faithfuU  fpufc  may  find  it 
felfe  more  prone  to  one  finne 
than  another :  but  if  right 
comparifon  be  maJe,  faith  in- 
citcth  to  h?tcall  finnc,  one  as 
well  as  another,  P-<5p,7o 

Chap.  VI. 

THe  fpeciall  objeS  of  juftify- 
ing faith  are  the  fiee  pro- 
mifes of  mercy  and  forgivcneffe 
in  Jcfus  Chrift,  §  I  p.70j7i 

Abraham  belecvingthe  promife  of 
fcedjdid  appieiiend  that  blefl'ed 
feed, which  from  the  beginning 
had  becne  jSromifed,  p.71 

Rcmiffionof  finnes  dothprefup- 
pofe  the  mercy  of  God  ,  ibid. 
Bdiefeof  Gods  povyer  is  not  the  / 
aifi  of  faith  juftifying  as  it  ju- 
ftifieth :  but  the  confideration 
cf  Gods  power  is  a  prop  and 
flay  to  faith  againft  manifold 
temptations,  p.7j 

Chrift  IS  every  where  in  Scripture 
made  the   thing  which    faith 
embraccth  to  falvation,p.74.7j 
Faith  in  Gods  fpeciall  mercy  fra. 
meth  his  Image  in  the  Heart, 
§  5  P.78 

Chap.  Vir. 

Juftifying  faith  is  a   particular 
and  certaine  confidence ,  §  i 
p.79,8o,8fc. 
The  thitfty  and  burthened  foule  is 
invited  to  come  unto  Chrift  , 
and  commanded  to  beleeve, 
p.8o 
Juftifying  faith  is  oppofed  to  dc- 
fpaire  ,  fo  as  to  expell  it :  it 
breeds  confidence  and  boldnes: 
and 


X-i. 


^A  Tdkle  of  thefriHcipall  matters 


and  rtcciveth  Chnlt  tor  the 
conveying  of  his  benefits  parti- 
cularly unto  us,  p  8i 

paith  is  ccrtainc  in  the  event,  not 
everinfenfc,    $  ip8i,8j, Sec. 

Things  are  to  us  according  as  wc 
conceive  them,    which  is  not 

,  ever  anfwaablc  to  the  evidence 
of  the  thing  in  it  fclfe,or  to  the 
ccrtaintie  in  regar<l  of  event, 

A  belcever ,  who  hath  a  fure  be- 
liefe  ,  doih  not  alwayes  know 
that  hec  fo  bcleevcth,  p.84 

Faith  as  it  jiiftifteth  is  a  refting 
■*  upoiiChrift  to  obtaine  pardon, 
nut  an  allured  perfwafipn  that 
our  finnes  be  already  pardoned 
and  forgiven,?  J  p.8y,8(Sj&:c. 
Before  Jultification  faith  feekcth 
and  receiveth  the  promife  of 
forgiveneflc :  after  Juftification 
it  comfortably  aflureth  of  the 
blefling  obtained,  p. 88 

1  Eleftion  is  manifefted  by  faith  as 
by  its  efFeft :  but  wee  are  jufti- 
fied  by  faith  as  the  inftrument 
thereof,^     .,,     ....S4P«8j 

chaWviii. 

HOw  faith   aflureth  of  falva- 
tion,  §  I  p.90,91 

This  aflurancc  is  fuch  as  is  (hakeii 
wvjih  many 'doubts  and  difH- 
calties,  5  i  p.pz 

The  particular  ccrtaintie  of  re- 
miflion  of  (innes,  is  not  equall 
in  certainetic  and  firmeniilecf 
aflent.,  to  that  afl'utance  yyhich 
wee  hive  about  the  common 
objeftoftaith,  §}p-92',9$ 
There  bee  feverall  il  nts  of  belee- 
verSjbutallfubjed  to  manifold 
temptations,  §4P.94j95 
Beleefe  in  Chriftfortemifltonis 


Itronger  and  more  nccc  iVaiy 
than  particular  aiVurance  of 
our  falvatjon,  §  y  p.96 

Net  onely  fome  uncertainehope, 
but  even  infallible  aflurance  of 
falvation  is  to  be  fought ,  and 
may  be  obtaintd,  5  6  p.9^,97, 
6CC. 
There  is  a  word  ttftifying  thus 
much,  that  my  particular  pcr- 
fon  beholding  the  Sonne  ,  and 
belecving  on  him  ,  fliallhave 
etcrnall  life,  P'97j98;99 

Such  as  truly  beleeve  may  know 
theybcleeye,  p.  99,106 

In  re{peA<)f  the  exaft  meafure*  of 
grace  and  ftrength,  the  regene- 
rate are  oft  deceived  :  but  of 
the  truth  of  grace  they  may  bee 
afiurred.  p.  100 

What  it  is  to  beleeve  with  the 
•whole  heart,  p.  101 

In  what  fcnfe  wee  mufl  continue 
daily  to  askc  of  God  forgive- 
nefle  of  fins,  notwithftanding 
former  aflurance  of  pardon,§  7 

p.I02,I<9^,I04,&C. 

How  juftification  is  fuUatid  en- 
tire, p 105,106 

God  hath  faid,  as  to  Abraham,  fo 

to  every  one  of  the  feed  of  i4- 

braham,  I  will  bcthy  God,  p. 

10^,107 

How  every  faithfull  man  may 
and  doth  make  God  his  in  par- 
ticular, ibid 

The  Apofllcs  and  other  faithfull 

have  beenc  affured  of  their  fal. 

vation  by  ordinary  faith,  §  8 

p.  107,108 

The  falvation  ofabeleever  is  in- 
fallible in  it  felfe,and  in  event, 
but  not  ever  in  his  apprchenfl- 
on  and  feeling,  §9.p.  108,  109 

Aflurance  of  faiih  in  things  ex- 
traordinarily revealed,  is  noi 
altogether- 


-  K.^ 


contained  in  this  firfi  Part, 


alcogeiher  free  from  alFaults  , 

The  benefits  that  come  unto  us 

byternptaiions,  p.  1 1 1 

Tht   Commandcrnents  arc  laid 

before  beleevcrs,    not  as  tlie 

caufe  for  obtaining  ofeternall 

life,  but  as  the  wavtowaike 

inuntoetcrnalllifCj§  lop.iii 
Uptight  walking  is  i>eceflaiy,  but 

not  the  caufc  of  Juftification, 

The  belcever  relycth  not  upon 
his  workes,  though  he  cxcrcife 
himfclfe  therein  with  all  dili- 
gence, P  "  4 

What  infirmities  may  (land  wiih 

afluiaiicc  of  faith,    §  iip.u^ 

ii6,  1 17,118 

What  finncs  hinder  afimance, 
§    up.  118,119 

The  abfolute  rtigr.e  of  finne  will 
not  ftand  with  the  ftate  of 
grace,  §ij  p.  1x9^120    The  fubjcdof  Juflifying  ismana 

True  aflurance  breeds  incrcafeof        fiHfier,  called  according  to  the 


iay,  that  wee  are  to  truft  in  the 

Saints  departed,  p.  128,   iia 

&c. 

Cmap.X. 

•pHe   benefits   and   cffcAs  of 
*     faith,      ^ip.i3i,i?i,&c. 

Faith  doth  not  cfflft.  and  pcr- 
forme  thofe  things  by  any  ex- 
cellency, force,  or  efficacy  of  Its 
owne  above  other  graces :  bur 
in  tcfpcd  of  the  office  where- 
unto  it  IS  affi"gned  in  the  Cove- 
nant of  grace,  p-  M  5 

Of  all  creatures  man  onely  is  ca- 
pable of  juftifying  faith ,  §  2 

tatrh  IS  proper  unro  man  in  this 
life,  in  bij  journey  toward?  his 
pcrft(ft  home  and  etcrnall  ha- 
bitation, P'liy 

All  men  have  net  faith,         ibid. 


refolution  and  circ  to  plcafc 
God,         §i4p.iiO,iiJ,izi 

Chap.  IX. 

THe  authority  of  the  Church 
cannot  bee  the  ground  of 
faith,  Si  p.l2j,ii4 

Whaifoevfr  credit  the  Ciiurch 
hjth.it  rcceiveththe  fame  from 
the  Scriptures,  -     P-'^* 

Th;  authority  of  the  Pope , 
whom  they  call  the  Church 
virtuall,  is  the  firft  ground  and 
laft  refolution  of  the  Romtt^ 
»i/?xf  lith,  §2p.i24,i2f 

Faith  refteth  nor  upon  the  Saints, 
but  upon  JvTus  Chrift,  §  J  p. 

The  Rhemifii  in  defence  of  their 
Saiiit  invocation,  are  4>^iven  to 


putpofe  ofGod,  acknowledg- 
ing his  offences,  and  hungring 
and  thirfting  after  mercy, 
p.ijtf 

The  feat  of  faith  is  the  heart,  but 
the  heart  contritc,humbled  be- 
wailing finne,  denying  it  ftlfe 
and  affeded  withdcfirc  of  re- 
milTi.)n,  §  J  p.  137 

In  Scripture  the  heart  is  taken  for 
the  whole  foule  ,  with  all  its 
powers  and  operations,  p.  i  ?  8 

Faith  is  common  to  all.  and  pecu- 
liar to  them  onely,  who  be  cal- 
led according  to  the  purpofeof 
God,  §4p.i?^,i40 

Allhavenotthc  like  meafure  of 
faith,  $fp.i4i 

Faiihperfedinnone,  p.  141,141 

The  faith  of  the  wcakeft  Chri- 

filan    is   fdfficicnt    to    falya'- 

tion. 


-St; 


^  Table  ofthefrrfuipall  matters 


tion,  5  6  p.  141 

The  degrees  of  faith  may  be  con- 
fiderud  according  to  the  divers 
growth  ,  which  God  bringeth 
his  children  unco,       §7  p.  14  J 
Fouie  degrees  of  faith,  ibid. 

Faith  IS  weakc  foure  waies, 
I  Knowledge.  2  Affent.  3 
Conhdence.  4  Fruits  and  ef- 
fefts,  p.M3,i44 

Ordinarily  beleevcrs  are  weake  at 
thefirft,  P«i4f 

Some  priviledged  above  others  , 
ibid. 
Faith  weakc  inoncrcfpeft,  may 
be  ftrong  in  another,  ibid. 

The  benefits  of  the  wcakeft  faith, 
if  true  and  lively,       §8  p.  1^6 
Weake  faith,  if  found,  will  grow 
artd  increafe,  ibid. 

Weemuft  ftrive  to  bee  ftrong  and 
rich  m  faith^  p.  146^147 

Faith  fomewhat  grownc ,        §  9 
p.  147 
Strong  faith,  p.  147,1 48 

Full  aflurance  gotten  by  degrees 
p.  1 48 
The  benefits  of  full  affurance , 
p.148,149 
The  ftrongeft  faith  is  fubjcft  to 
fundry  infirmities,  5  lop  150 
The  ftrong  beleever  doth  fome- 
times  flirinke,  when  the  weake 
ftands  faft,  ibid. 


Cmap,  XI. 

Motives  and  encouragements 
tobeleeve,§  i  p.iji,i5i 
Meanes  for  the  right  planting  of 
faith,  §ip.i5j,ij4,ijj,&c. 
Faith  once  obtained ,  is  ferioufly 
to  be  regarded ,  §  3  p.  ij8,ijr9 
160 
Meanes  whereby  faith  is  ftreng- 


thcncdand  confirmed,        §  4  p 
i6i,i6»,l6j,i64 

C  HAP.  XII. 

WHy  Satan  endevowrsby  all 
meanes  to  hinder,  as  the 
kindly  taking,fo  the  growth  ot 
faith,  §ip.l^4,i65 

The  firft  Temptation  is  taken  from 
our  worthtefneffe,      ^  i  p.i6f 
T^emedie:  Thefcnfeofimworthi- 
nefle  mnft   not   difcoarage  lis 
from  beleeving,  becaufc 

I.  The  mercy,  favour,  pro- 
mifes,  andbenejfits  of  God  are  all 
free,  ibid. 

i.VVc  are  not  more  defirous 
to  b€reeve,than  God  is  we  fhould 
fodoe,  p.i6f,i6tf 

The  fecond  Temptation ,  They 
know  not  whether  they  be  cle- 
fted,  $  1 

Remedie  i.Hold  fuch fuggeftions 
to  aiife  from  the  fpirit  of  error, 
and  lend  noeare  to  fuch  whif- 
perings  of  the    old  Serpent , 
p.i66 
2.   If  Goi  make  offer  of 
mercy  and  forgivenefle  in  the  Mi- 
ni ftery  of  the  Gofptl,  wee  are 
bound  to  receive  it,  ibid. 

The  third  Temptation ,  They  are 
fullofdoubtings,  Jj 

Remedie,  i.  Faith  may  bee  true 
and  lively  that  is  weakc,  p.  \6-j 
z.  It  is  not  the  excellency 
and  meafure   of  faith  that  doth 
make  us  righteons  before  God,but 
Chrift  whom  faith  doth  receive, 
ibid. 
5.  Itisnotfaith,butChrift 
received  by  faith,  thatnouriflieth 
tocternalllife,  ibid 

4.   Wee  read  that  Chrift  re- 
proved fome  for  their  fmali  faith, 
but 


*> 


contained  in  this  firfi  Part, 


but  never  lejeclcd  any  that 
came  unto  him  in  wcaknefle  , 
defiring  to  be  con h i med,p.  1 67 

The  fouTh  Temptation  y  They 
cannot  keepe  their  faith  ftrong 
and  aedtall,  §  4 

Remedie,  I.  There  iynofliadow 
of  change  wiih  God,        p.I<^8 

1.  Labouring  after  and  groa- 
ning to  reft  their  weaiicd  foulcs 
upon  thepiomifcs  of  mcrcy,bcing 
never  fatisfitd  till  their  doubt- 
tulncfle  be  removed,  will  bring  a 
good  end,  ibid. 

3.  Want  of  feeling  argueth 
not  vvant  of  faith,         p.  i<5S,itfp 
Why  the  faithfull  are  fubjcft  to 
filth  doubts  and  want  of  fee- 
ling, p.  169,170 
The  Hft  Temptation,Thcy  recei- 
ved the  tiuth  at  firft  without 
due  trial),  §  ^ 
Rcmedie,  i ,  God  is  mcrcifull,nnd 
ready  to  forgive  our  imperfe- 
ctions, when  upon  the  know- 
ledge and  fightjwe  confeile  and 
btwailethem,                 p.'70 

2.  Faith  may  be  truCjthough 
much  were  amiflV,  when  firft  wee 
received  the  truth,  il-id. 

3.  It  IS  the  great  wifdome 
and  mercy  ofthe  Lord,  for  a  time 
to  hide  from  his  children  the  fight 
of  their  infirmiues  and  wants  ^ 

ibid. 
The  G\t  Temptation,  They  never 
had  that  dcepe  forrow,  which 


many  havefclr, 


'P. 


§6 


Remedic,  i.  God  deales  not  with 

all  alike,  p.  170,1 71 

iTo  doubt  of  Gods  love  be- 

caufe  hee  deales  gently  with  us  , 

left  wee  fhould  bee  fwallowed  up 

of  loriow  ,  is  great  ignorance , 

P»7X 


?.  Faith  may  bee  found  in 
them  who  never  fdt  fuch  depth 
of  forrow,  as  others  have  done , 
ibid. 
The  fcventh  rcw;>r(7m«.  They 
never  felt  any  great  ftrength  of 
grace,  §  7 

Rcmedie,  i.  We  are  but  children, 
and  therefore  weakc  and  fub- 
jcd  to  many  fpirituall  difeafes 
p. 171 
2.  Grace  may  be  truCjwhiLs 
it  isbutfinall.  ibid. 

j.  If  wcakenefl'e  of  grace 
was  any  juft  caufc  of  fcare  ,  none 
might  afliire  thcmfelvcs  of  Gods 
^ove,  ibid. 

The  eighth  7'cw;>fario«,What  they 
formerly  felt  is  now  decayed  , 
§8 
Remedie.  In  Gods  deareft  chil- 
dren there  may  bee  decay  of 
graces,  P  i7iJ7i 

The  ninth  Temptation ,  They 
cannot  find  any  lively  fenfe  of 
faith,  §  g 

T^medie,  i.  Graces  may  lie  hid, 
and  worke  ,  in  refpcd  of  our 
acknowledgement,  infenfibly, 

,     .  P-»7?,i74 

2.1n  the  agony  of  confcience 

none  are  more  unfit  to  judge  of 

our  eftate,than  we  arc  of  our  own, 

P-J74>i7f 

3.  The  Lord  diverfly  gives 
evidence  of  his  Spirits  prcfencein 
us,  p.ijy 

4.  If  for  the  prcfent  a  man 
can  difcerne  no  fparke  of  grace  in 
himfelfe  ,  he  muft  call  to  remem- 
brance former  times,  wherein  hee 
hath  glorified  God  by  an  holy  life 
and  convcrfation,  P- *7  5 

f.  If  hee  bee  not  cble  to  ga- 
ther comfort  from  former  expe- 
rience ,  hee  muft  lay  hold  upon 
the 


Y»-/ 


^A  Table  ofthe^rittcifall  matters. 


the  gracious  iiwitaiion  ot  Chiillv, 
calling  the  ihirfty  and  burdened 
foule  to  come  unto  him  ,  p.176 
The  tenth  rcwpfarfcK,Thcir  fins 
be  many  in  number  ,  and  hai- 
nous  for  quality,  §  10 

Remedie  f  The  hainoufnelle  or 
number  of  our  fmnes  make  us 
not  uncapable  of  mercy,  p.  176 
The  eleventh  Temptation,  They 
are  prtflcd  with  the  heavie  bur- 
th.n  of  Gods  wrath. 
Remedie  J  i-  Faith  may  continue 
ftrong,  though  fcnfeof  Gods 
lovefaile,  p.i77 

a.  Faith  goeth  before  expe- 
rience orfenfe  ofmercy,and  wai- 
teth  for  falvation  by  Chrift  in  the 
depth  of  miferie,  ibid. 

3 .  Wee  are  not  to  give  credit 
to  our  owne  feelmg  ,  but  to  the 
WordofGod,  p.177,178 

4.  The  dearcft  fervants  of 
God  have  in  their  owne  fenfe  ap- 
prehended wrath  and  indignati- 
oTii  P'i78 

The  twelfth  Temptation ,  They 
have  long  ufed  the  raeanes  and 
can  find  no  comfort,  §  xi 
Remedie,  i .  Examine  if  fome  bo- 
fomc  finne  bee  not  that  which 
makes  the  breach  in  the  confci- 
ence,  p''78 

2.  The  Godly  fcmetimts 
walke  without  comfort,  becaufe 
they  put    it  from    themfelves, 
p.  179 

3.  Oftentimes  Godcaufcth 
his  children  to  feekc  long  before 
they  find  comfort,  ibid. 

4.  The  ardent  defire  ftiall  at 
length  be  fa:iified,  ibid. 

j.Remiflion  offinnes  and 

peace  of  confcicnce  are  favours 

worth  the  waiting  for,  ibid. 

<J.  Wee  have  not  waited  fo 


many  yeeres  in  the  mcanes  ot 
grace  for  comfort,  as  God  hath 
waited  for  our  converfion,  p.iSo 
The  thirteenthrewpf<zr;o«,They 
are  afraid  of  fallmg  into  fome 
fearefull  extremity  ,  §  \  2, 

l^medie ,  1.  Labour  to  fortifit 
faith  in  the  gracious  promifes 
which  God  hath  made  to  his 
children  of  fuftentation  and 
prcfervation,  p.  180 

i.  The  ftrongeft  cannot 
ftand  by  their  owne  might,  and 
the  weakeft  fiiall  bee  able  to  over- 
come all  their  (pirituall  enemies 
by  the  power  of  the  Lord,     ibid. 

3.  Feare  is  valiantly  to  be  re- 
filled, not  to  be  beleeved  or  rea- 
foned  withall,  p.  1 8 1 

4.  Feaic  of  falling  arifing 
from  fenfe  of  weakeneffe,  is  diffi- 
dence in  God,  ibid. 
The    fouretcenth     Temptation , 

They  fhall  never  hold  out  to 

the  end,  §.  r  j 

Remediey  1.  The  fame  Cod  who 

keepcs  them  in  time  of  peace,is 

able  and  will  uphold  them  in 

time  of  trouble,  p.i8i 

2.     In  our  foreft   allaults 

God  is  at  our  right  hand  tofup- 

port  and  ftay  us,  that  we  fliall  not 

fall,  p.  1 8  2 

J.  If  their  portion  of  grace 

be  the  fmalleft  of  all  others,  they 

mufl  fin  ve  to  grow  forward, but 

without  difcouragcment,       ibid. 

The  fifteenth  Temptation ,  They 

are  many  waj^scrofled  and  af- 

flided,  §.  14 

Remedie,    i.  God  doih  love  ttn- 

dtrly  when  he  doth  correft  fe- 

verely,  P«i8j 

2.  All  Gods  chaftifemencs 

are  but  purgative   medicines  to 

preven:  or   cure  fome  fpirituall 

dif. 


contained  in  this  fir fi  Part, 


JL..^ 


difeafe  ,  ibid. 

J.God  requires  that  men  in 
afflidion  fhould  live  by  faith, 
both  for  a  fandified  ufeiiithcrn, 
and  a  good  ifluc  out  of  them  m 
due  ftalon,  ibid. 

The  fixceenih  Ten.pt aiion,  T'ley 
are  ftiongly  polkfl.d  with 
fcare  that  God  haih  urttily 
caft  them  ofl',  Sly 

Remedie,  l.Thcy  muft  bswaie 
they  make  not  more  finnes  un- 
pardonable than  God  himfelfe 
hath  pronounced  to  bee  of  that 
fort,  p.  1 84 

2.  Seeing  God  doth  call  and 
incou rage  them  to  truft  and  relic 
upon  him, and  they  ftand  in  need, 
and  would  gladly  embnce  his 
promifcs  made  inChtift,  they 
muft  gather  godly  boldnefl'c  to 
reft  upon  Gods  grace, and  courage 
to  fight  againft  ,  and  withftand 
Satan,  p.i8j 

J.  The  foule   cannot   tafte 
fwectnefle  when  it  is  overwhel- 
med with  feares,  p.i  85,186 
4..  It  is  a  fault  to  meafure 
the  excellency  of  faith  and  power 


thereof  by  qaantitie  and  unfea- 
fonable  fruits  (  Co  to  call  them) 
and  not  by  vcrtiic,  kindplantati- 
on,andfeafnnabIc  fruir,       p  187 
Wh-it  bee  fcnfonable  efFcfts  and 
fruits  of  faith  in  great  tempta- 
tions and  cloudy  feafonsjp.  1 8  7 
188 
y.  ImperfcAions  argue  not 
want  of  faith  ,  but  place  tor  fur- 
ther   increafc   of   faith  and  the 
faiits  thereof,  P-^^9 

6.  In  Scripture  we  have  ex- 
amples of  wcake  bclcevers  as 
Well  as  of  ftrong  :  and  in  one  and 
the  fame  pctTondiftcrent  degrees 
of  faith  at  divers  times,        ?•!  8^ 

7.  When  the  heart  is  filled 
with  feares  ,  the  calmc  and  ftill 
voice  of  the  Spirit  is  not  difcer- 
ned,  p.ijo 

8.  In  thofe  fcafons  the  triall 
of  faith  is  to  bee  taken  by  thofe 
fruits  which  are  evident  to  the  eie 
of  others,  ibid. 

9.  They  that  feele  thcm- 
felves  deftitute  of  grace  and  com- 
fort,  are  willed  to  repaireunto 
Chrift  for  both,  p.  1^0,191 


^  Table  of  the  principall  matters 

contained  in  thiffecond  Tart, 


I 


Chap.  I. 

Ndxicements  to  live  by  faith, 

Chrift  is  the   fountaine  of 

life,  and  fairh  the  meanc, 

p.i94,i95,i96,&c. 


It  is  impoflible  that  faith  Hiould 
challenge  any  thing  of  defert 
unto  her  felfe,  p.  i  g6 

Faith  is  profitable  for  this  life , 

and  the  lite  to  come ;  for  all 

parts  and  purpofesof  our  hvcs; 

but  evertnore  ic  advanceih  the 

srace 


.it.^- 


^Table  pfthefrtMcipall  matters. 


grace  ot  God,  ibid. 

What  it  is  to  live  by  faith,  p.  197 

198 

What  is  to  be  done  thatwc  might 

live  by  faithj'ui^. 

I.   Acquaint  our  felves  fa- 
miliarly with  the  Word  of  God  j 
p.ijS,  199 
Befides  cxpreffe  Commandements 
and  direft  piomifes  ,  there  bee 
fpeciall  proiTJifes  and  comman- 
dements by  confequenr,  which 
we  are  to  note  and  make  ufe  of, 
p.  1 99, 200 
x.Exercifc  faith  aright  in  the 
Word,  p.  100. 20 1 

The    ads  of   faith   about  the 
Word. 

1.  It  doth  firmelyand  uni- 
verfally  affent  to  the  whole  Word 
ofGod.andfct  adiie price  and  va- 
lue upon  it,  p,  ioi 
t.  It  ponders  the  word  fcn- 
oufl/  ,  and  trcafures  it  up  fafe , 
ibid. 

5,  It  prefer ves  and  keepes 
in  the  way  of  the  promifci,  ibid, 

4.  It  plyes  the  throne  of 
grace  with  earneft  and  continunll 
fupplications,  ibid. 

y  It  looketh  «p  djreftly  un- 
to God  his  wifdome,power,mer- 
cy,and  faithfulneflej  p.  loz 

6.  It  refteth  quietly  upon 
God  ,  and  triumphcth  before  the 
viSory,  ibid. 
Memes  to  ftir  up  our  felves  to 

live  by  (mh^  feil. 

I.  Find  out  thy  unbslecfe^ 

p.202,20},20||&C. 

1.  See  the  neceflity  and  pre- 
d  tmfnt  ffc  of  fa  i  t  h ,  P-  *o  7 

}.  Meditate  on  the  grounds 
of  faith,  P'iOT,  108 

I  4.   Feeling    weakenelTe   of 

faith,  looke  on  Chnft,        p.ioS 


J.    Pray   for  the  Spuit  of 
faith,  p.  2  08^209 

C  H  A  p.  1 1, 

WHat  is  meant  by  Cods  pro- 
mifes  J    and  the  divers 

kinds  thereof,  p.  209,  210 

The  promife  of  forgtvenclTc  of 
finnes,  p.  210 

This  promife  is  free,  ibid. 

Yet  obtained  through  CHrift  on- 
ly, ibid 

And  received  and  pr.iiffed  by 
faith,  and 'lyitaloji.,      p.m 

This  promife  is  of  fai    , 

1.  That  itm!;j't  ■>€  of  fret- 
grace,  ibid. 

2.  Th.it  it  migiit  be  ^^  dfaft 
andfureto  all  the  feed,       ^  •  ij 

J.  That  onely  is  the  inie 
manner  of  Jullificition,  which 
(huts  forth  all  boafting  in  the  dig- 
nity of  our  workes,  ibid. 
It  IS  ncCs;flary  to  feek  pardon  of  lin 
by  faithjfor 

1,  In  our  felves  we  be  fin- 
full  and  curfed,  and  remiffion 
which  is  of  grace,can  be  obtaincc 
by  no  other  meanes,  but  onely  by  1 

faith  in  JcfusChtift,  p.zi2 

z.  Faith  goeth  dircftly  unto 
Chrift,  that  by  him  we  might  bee 
juftiHed.  P'^^i 

5.  Faith  inthe  promifes  of 
mercy,  doth  commend  and  mam- 
taine  the  glory  of  Gods  grace , 
ibid. 
The  afts  of  faith  touching  this 
promife  of  forgivenefle  be  di- 
vers. 

I.  It  generally  belceveth  the 
promife  to  bee  true ,  and  there- 
by difcernes  that  finne  is  pardo- 
nable, p.  213,1 1 4 

2.  It  ftirreth  up  carneft  de- 

firesJ 


TTT 


h 


eottt Mined  in  thisfecondPurt* 


fires  and  longings  to  be  n^ade  par- 
taker of  this  merty,     p.zi4,ii{' 

J.  Ic  dtnwcth  us  forward  to 
fceke  mercy  of  God  by  unfained 
cOnfeflion  and  hearty  fupplicati- 
on,  p.ziy,ii^,xi7 

4,  It  cmbraccth  and  reftcth 
upon  the  fpea  a11  and  free  mercy  of 
God  in  Chrift  for  pardon,  p.ti  8 

y.It  doth  certifie  of  pardon 
granted  and  fealed  unto  us,  pag. 

-How  faith  doth  affiire  that  our 
finncs  arc  already  pardoned, 
p.ti9 
Three    prero«anvcs    accompany 
confident  aiiurance. 
I.  Peace  with  Gad. 
...   Free   accelFe   unto    the 
thronv.  of  gtucc. 

J.  Joy  in  the  Holy  Ghoft 
unfpeakable  and  glorious,    p.  z  zo 

6.  By  faith  wee  continue  in 
this  blefled  ftatc ,  in  fvvect  peace 
and  fellowthip  with  God,  p.z  zz 

A  Chriftian  may  live  by  faith  for 
manydayes,  or  rather  all  the 
-  ■  dayes  of  his  life,  in  fwect  pe-ice 
and  communion  with  God,  if 
;.>hee  will  Icarne  tomaintainc, 
^  and  takepaincstoexercifc  his 
faith  aright,  p.i2?,ii4 

To  what  mealure  of  joy  a  Chri- 
ftian may  attaine,     pig.  ii^ 
zz6 
Two  fpcciall  caufes  there  be,  why 
'   many  good   Chriftians  live  fo 
•    lortg'in  feare  and  doubt. 

I,  An  immoderate  aggra- 
vation of  their  finne,and  continu- 
all  thought  of  their  unworthines, 

p.2i7 

Thcfcmuft  know  it  is  good  to  de- 
nic  L  imfelves  ,    but  not  to 


doubt  of  the   mercy  of  the 
Lord,  ibid. 

The  detcftationorfinnc  is  great- 
ly to  be  commended, if  they  re- 
member withall,  that  there  is 
hope  in  Ifrael  concerning  this, 
p.tiS 

There  be  finnes  of  ignorance,  in- 

'    firmity,  forgetfulnefleandfiid- 

dcn  paffion:and  there  be  foule, 

enormous  ,   notorious  finnts, 

which  wound  confcicnce,  pag. 

'      '  118,119 

Ifa  man  have  often  fallen  into 

notorious  offences,  he  is  not  to 

*•    defpaire,  P-**9 

A  foulc  offence  after  grace  recei- 
ved is  not  unpardonable,p.  z  29 

Many  complaine  they  cannot  bc- 
Jeeve,  when  indeed  they  thinke 
there  is  no  promife  of  mercy 
made  unto  them ,  upon  which  I 
they  fliould  ground  their  con-  | 
fidencc,  p.  150  ] 

Such  muft  know  ,  ,  i .  That  God 
calleth  them  in  his  word  to 
'come  unto  him,as  if  he  did  par- 
ticularly name  them. 

i.  They  muft  confidcr  of 
the  free  grace  of  God  in  promi- 
fin^,  and  his  faithfulnefle  in  ma- 
king good  whatfoever  hee  hath 
promifed,  ibid. 

The  fecondcaufeis,  ignorance  of 
the  way  how  this  aflurance  is 
to  be  fought,  upon  what  foun- 
dation it  is  to  bee  laid  ,  In  what 
order  they  come  unto  it,  p.zji 
Two  things  are  fpccially  to  bee 
leafned  for  their  dircSion. 
I.  That  afloonc  as  ever  a 
man  fecles  finne  as  a  burthen,  and 
doth  truly  thirft  to  beeafed  of  it, 
hee  hath  a  calhng  to  come  unto  I 
Chrift,  p.ijijZji' 

A  i.The 


^• 


A  Tabic  oftheprwifdUmancrt 


X*  The  barren  in  grace  muft 

come  unto  Chiift  to  be  fupplyed 

ofhisfulneffe,  p.ijt 

Diredionstothcwcake,  how  to 

ftirre  up  themfelves  tobelccve 

when  they  fecleno  comfort. 

I.   They  muft   unfaincdly 

humble  their  foules  before  God 

in  the  confeflion  of  finne  ,  with 

earneft  prayer  for  pardon ,  pig. 

z.  They  muft  rowfe  and 
ftirre  up  themfelves  to  belceve  , 
with  reafons  drawne  from  the 
promifes  and  covenant  of  God 
made  in  }efusChrift,confiderJ^ 
tions  taken  out  of  the  word,  a^d 
experience  of  his  dealing  with  o- 
ther  his  fervants  in  former  times, 

'  !•.-■  }*f  They  muft  bee  mi^ant 

with  the  Lord  to  give  them  both 

ftrength  of  faith,  and  the  fight  of 

their  beleefe,  p. z 35^x3 6 

4.  They  muft  comfoit  their 

\  hearts  in  the  certainty  of  Gods 

I  Word  ,  though  for  the   prefent 

they  feele  no  comfort^         P-  *  J  ^ 

Thus  faith  isdailytobeeprefer- 

ved  and  quickened,  ibid* 

Chap.  III. 


OF  the  promifes  of  Sanftifica- 
tion,  P'^i7 

A  Chriftian  is  allowed  to  beleeve 
thefe  promifes,  for, 

1,  In  the  covenant  of  grnce 
God  hath  promifed  to  take  away 
the  heart  of  ftone,&c.         p-258 

2.  The  fountaine  of  grace 
isfet  open  unto  the  thirfty  ,  and 
hce  is  invited  to  come  and  drinke, 
to  the  fatisfying  of  his  foule, 

ibid. 
J.  Chrift  by  his  bloiid  hath 


purchafed  for  his  people  all  fpiri- 
tuaUbleflings  in  heavenly  things, 
p.i39 
4.  Wee  are  taught  to  aske  of 
God  in  Chrift,  increafc  and 
ftrength  of  grace,  ibid. 

J.  The  faithfull  have  relyed 
upon  Chrift  for  grace  and  ability 
to  walke  in  his  wayes,  ibid. 

6.  Mans  duty  is  Gods  free 
gift  of  grace,  ibid. 

It  is  necefl'ary  to    beleeve  that 
God  will  fandlifie our  nature, 
and  enable  us  to  the  duties  of 
holinefle. 
For,  I.  JaftiHcation  and  fandifi- 
cation  be  individual!,  P«^39 

2.  Othcrwife  Chriftians 
(hall  very  much  t>agger,  be  off  and 
on,  coldly  fet  upon  the  praAice  of 
Chnftianity,  p.  240 

3.  Our  ow»e  ftrength  is  too 
weakc  for  the  work  of  holinefle^ 

ibid,  j 

4.  Setlednefleinthis  ,  that 
God  will  perfeft  the  worke  of  ho- 
linefle begun,  caufeth  men  to  goe 
about  the  w.orke  of  mortification 
with  much  readinefTe,  ibid. 

J.  The  promifes  of  God  con- 
cerning fpirituall  things  are  link- 
ed together,  P'*4^ 
The  a6ls  of  faith  about  the  pro- 
mifes of  fandification. 

I*  It  acquaints  man  with  his 
emptineflc  of  grace ,  and  the 
ftrength  of  his  inbred  corruption, 
p,X4 1,242 
ir.  It  fhevycth  where  the 
ftrength  is  to  bee  had  which  wee 
want,and  ftirres  up  to  a  conftam, 
confcionable,  and  diligent  u(e  of 
the  raeanes  of  grace, .  p.  24  z 

5.  It  inciteth  to  an  holy  im- 
provement of  what  grace  we  have 
received^  P'2'4j 

4.\r 


contained  in  this  fecond  Part, 


4.  It  fighteth  couragcoufly  a- 
gainft  {inne>  and  cryetb  inftantljr 
to  the  Lord  for  hdpe,  ibid. 

5.  It  fubmitteth  willingly  to 
what  courfe  the  Lord  is  plcafed  to 
take  for  the  crucifying  of  finne, 

ibid. 

6.  Faith  is  the  band  or  finew 
whereby  we  are  tyed  unto  Chrift 
the  fountaine  of  grace,  p.  14^, 

24f 

7.  True  faith  ftirreth  up  to 
thankftilnfffe  for  the  beginning 
of  fandificution,  P-*4J 
The  mcanes  how  a  Chriftian  is 

to  ftirre  up  faith    10  beleeye 

that  Cod  will  fanftifie  him, 

when  hee  feeih  nothing  but 

thraldome. 

I.   Hee  mud  bewaile    his 

fpirituall  nakedneffc ,  thraldome, 

and  vaflillage  under  finne,  p.  14  J 

i-Hc  muft  looke  to  the  grace, 
truth,  and  power  of  God  ,  who 
hath  promifed  to  fanftifie  :  to  the 
fill nefle  and  fufficiency  that  is  m 
Chrift  the  fountaine  of  grace,  p. 
24(5,147 

3.  Hee  muft  pray  inftantly 
unto  the  Lord  for  fandifying 
grace,  p.  247,248 

4.  It  is  good  to  move  the 
heart  quietly  to  reft  in  the  promife, 
and  re  Joyce  in  hope,         p.  248 

Chap.  IIIL 

CHrift  hath  purchafed  for  us 
life  everlafting  no  lefle  than 
righteoufneffe,  p.  248, 249 

Eternall  life  is  promifed  upon  con- 
dition of  faith  in  Chrift  ,  p. 

T  -L  ^^^ 

Luc  eternall  is  begun  in  ihcm  that 

bcleeve,  ibid. 


When  fitft  wee  beleeve ,  then  are 
we  intituled  to  life  everlafting, 
and  fo  have  the  accompliHi- 
ment  of  glory  in  refped  of 
right  and  propriety,  pag,  249 
ijo 
It  is  our  duty  to  beleeve  in  God 
throughjefus  Chrift  for  the  ob- 
taining of  eternall  Lfe  to  bee 
gi  ven  of  grace,  p«»Ji 

It  is  very  neceflary  to  beleeve  it. 

i.That  we  migh:  with  more 

quietnefl'e  of  mind  beue  the  af- 

tiiftions,  trouhles,  and  perfccuti- 

onsjwhich  befall  us  in  this  world, 

p.iyi 

2.  It  ferves  to  eftablilh  our 
hearts  againft  fundry  worldly 
cares  and  fcares,  ibid. 

3.  If  wee  keepc  Heaven  in 
our  eye,  wee  fhall  fight  courage- 
oufly  ,  and  runne  with  patience  , 
notwithftanding  all  oppofition , 

p.  2^2 

The    afts  of  faith  concerning 
thefe  pronaifcs. 

1.  As  an  humble  petitioner 
it  receiveth  and  layeth  hold  up- 
on falvation  it  felfe  promifed,  p. 

2J2 

2.  Faith  doth  not  begin  to 
apprehend  life ,  and  then  fcare  it 
to  workes,  but  doth  ever  reft  upon 
the  promife  uniill  we  come  to  en- 
joy it,  P,ifJ 

g.  By  feith  wee  receive  the 
promifed  Spirit,  asthe  earntft  of 
our  inheriuncc,  ibid. 

4.  Faith  in  the  prcmifes  of 
everlafting  life  leadeth  forward 
in  the  paths  of  peace  and  righte- 
oufneffe, p.2y4,255 

f .  It  fecketh  to  get  our  ti- 
tle confirmed  and  afflired  to  the 
confcience  by  evidence  ,  and  ear- 
neft,  orpawne,  p.a^? 

A  2  6  It 


y 


A  Table  of  the  ^rinci^aU  matters 


C.  Tt  ftriveth  to  enter  the 
pofftlsion  of  this  heavenly  king- 
dome  by  degrees,  p.  z  ?  5 , 2  >  6 

7.  It  earncftly  defires  and 
lon^eth  after  the  full  accomplifli- 
ment  of  glory,  P-iJ^ 

Z.  It2drureth  that  wee  are 
made  heires  of  glcry  ,  to  which 
God  of  his  grace  will  bringus 
in  his  time -appointed,  pag.  256 

God  in  great  mercy  doth  v©uch- 
fafe  to  his  adopted  fonncs  ma- 
ny excellent  royalties  in  this 
life,  p. 257.^58 

Theafts  of  faitk  that  arife  from 
the  privUedges  of  the  godly  in 
this  life. 

1.  Faith  refteth  upon  the 
grace  of  God  to  receive  from  him 
whatfoever  may  be  good  and  pro- 
fitable, p.2f9 

2.  It  petitioncth  inftantly 
forfuccour,  p.  260 

3.  It  receiveth  earthly  blef- 
fings  as  gifts  of  the  covenant,  and 
tokens  of  love,  ibid. 

4.FaitK in  thefe  and  the  forc- 
faid  promifesdoth  greatly  enlarge 
the  heart  towaids  God,      p  itfi 

f.  It  doth  inwardly  quiet 
andcheare  the  heart  inthemidft 
of  manifold  oiuward  difcourage- 
ments,  ibid. 

The  way  and  meanes  to  ftirrc  up 
f;.ich  in  thefe  promifcs. 

1.  To  humble  our  feives 
unfainedly  in  refpeft  of  our 
miferable  and  accutfcd  cftate  by 
finne  ,  and  former  carelefneflc 
to  fecke  mercy,  &c.pag.  26 1 .  262 

26 1. Sec, 

2.  Wee  muft  incite  and 
flirre  up  our  feives  to  receive  the 
promifes  of  everlafting  life  ,  by 
confideration  of  the  ffte  and  ric^ 


giace  of  God,  his  truth  and  faith- 
fulnefle  j  the  fuiSciency  of 
Chrifts  merits;  and  greatnefTe  , 
excellency  and  worth  of  the  be- 
nefit promifed  ,    pjg,  264,  265 

5.  Wee  muft  pray  earneftly 
that  God  would  incrcafe  our 
faith, feale  us  by  his  Spirit,lcadus 
in  the  way  of  peace ,  caufe  us  to 
grow  up  in  holinefle  ,  make  us 
wife  to  prize  and  value,  totafte 
and  rellilhthc  joycs  of  Heaven, 
and  aiTure  our  confcienccs  oii 
right  and  title  to  that  everlafting 
inheritance,  p.269,270 

4.  Wee  muft  quicken  our 
feives  to  rcj'»yce  in  God,  wait  pa- 
tiently, and  wilke  chcerefully  be- 
fore him,  p.270,171 


Chap.  V. 

GOd  hath  made  many  promi- 
fes of  pcrfeverance,   pag 

The  love  which  God  beareth  to 
his  people  is  an  evei  lifting 
love,  and  the  covenant  whirls 
hce  hath  made  with  them  eflfe- 
duUly,  and  fhall  be  kept  aflii- 
icdiy  ,  IS  an  everlafting  cove- 

"'"^,..      ■      ^    P-^7^27j 

i  he  condition  ot  the  covenant  is 

promiftd  in  the  covenant  it 

felfe,  p.  27} 

All  the  faithful!  are  built  upon  the 

rockf,not  upo.i  the  rockenow, 

and  anon  upon  the  fahd,  p.  174^ 

The  fliccpc  of  Chrift  ftiall  never 

periih,  neither  ihall  any  man 

plucke  them  out  of  his  hand  , 

P-174 
They  art  fenced  againft  the  trea- 
chery of  their  owne  hearts  re- 
maining in.them,  p'*75 
fhf 


•i  •» 


contained  in  this  frcoftd  Part. 


The  holy  Spirit  is  fent  into  their 
hearts  to  dwell  and  remainc 
with  them ,  as  an  earned  of 
their  inheritance,  untill  the  re- 
rlemption  of  the  purchafed  pof. 
feflion,  ibid. 

The  life  which  they  live  by  faith 
in  Chtift,  is  an  everlafting  life, 
p.Z7« 
Chrift  hath  praied  for  his  people 
that  their  faith  (hould  not  f.ule^ 
ibid. 
We  arc aflured  from  God,that  hee 
will  perfed  the  woikc  of  grace 
which  he  hath  begun,        ibid. 
By  ferious  meditation  on   thefc 
promifcs  wee  miiit  fettle  our 
felves  in  belceving  our  perfevc- 
rancc  :  which  is  very  neceflary. 
For  I.  Had  it  not  beene  a  point 
of  great   weight  ,     the  Lord 
would  not  have  mentioned  it 
fo  often,  P-i77 

1.  Wee  are  weakc  and  feeble 
to  withftand ,  our  fpintuall  ene- 
mies potent  and  vigilant  to  af- 
faile,  ibid. 

J.  Our  wcakencflc  is  not 
greater  than  our  backwardnefl'e  to 
belcevc  the  promifes  of  perfcve- 
rance,  when  wee  ftandinmoft 
need,  ibid. 

4.Whilft  Chriftians  diftruft- 
fullyqucftion  their  perfeverance, 
all  prefent  favours  fceme  the  lefle, 
all  other  promifes  bee  held  the 
more  weakly,  ibid. 

y.  Confidence  in  the  promi- 
fes of  perfeverance  doth  encou- 
r.igc  and  quicken  in  a  Chriftian 
CQurfe,  P*78 

Hce  that  hath  faith  indeed  will 
noti  nay,  he  cannot  take  cou- 
rage to  goc  on  in  fin  upon  this 
pretence,  that  faith  once  had  , 
cannot  utterly  be  loft,       ibid. 


6,.  Looke  how  much  wee 
come  fhort  in  beleeving  the  faith- 
full  promifes  of  God,  concerning 
our  future  proctdion  from  all 
hurtfull  evils,  fo  much  arc  wee 
lacking  to  found  peace  and  ftable 
tranquillity  of  mind  and  Confci- 
ence,  p.i79,z8a 

The  godly  are  allowed  to  belcevc 

their  perfeverance. 
For,  I.  God  hath  confirmed  it  by 
promife  and  covenant  unto  his 
children,  p.iSo 

i.They  have  allowance  to  be- 
leeve  the  obtaining  of  that  which 
Chrift  hath  praied  for,8c  they  .iske 
of  God  in  the  Name  of  Chrift  ac- 
cording to  his  will,       p.x8o,i8i 

3.  What  one  belecved  upon 
ordinary  and  common  grounds  , 
that  is  the  priviledge  of  all  belce- 
vcrs,  p.  18 1 

4.  It  is  a  great  glory  to  God, 
that  wee  live   by  taith   on  him 
concerning  our  future  cftate,ibid. 
The  afts  of  faith  concerning  per- 
feverance, 

1.  It  makes  a  manfenfible  of 
his  owne  frailty,  p.  18  2 

1.  It  ftirres  up  anholy  jea- 
loufie  and  fufpiiion ,  left  wee 
ftiould  coole,  decay ,  ftart  aWe  or 
fallbacke,  ibid. 

5.  Faith  inftantly  crycth  un- 
to the  Lord  for  help  and  ftrength, 
and  continuall  fupply  of  grace , 

p.xSj 

4.  Faith  defiieth  ,  digefteth, 
and  feedeth  upon  the  vsholfome 
food  of  life,  «b;d. 

5 ,  It  putteth  forth  it  felfe  to 
performe  all  duties  of  holincfle 
and  love  with  life  and  fervour,  p. 

284 
6  It  covctcthincreafc  of  grace 
andfanftification,  P-^^T 

A  ?  7  It 


± 


"1- 


A  Tabu  of  the  friftcifdU  matters 


7.  It  receivech  new  fupply 
of  grace  continually  from  Jefus 
Chtift  the  fountaine  of  grace  , 
p.286 
8.  It  afllireth  of  perfeve- 
rance  through  the  promifes  of 
grace,  ibid. 

Meancs  to  ftirre  up  ourfclvesto 

beleeve  thefc  promiies  of  perfe- 

verance. 

1.  Wee  muft  heartily  be- 
waile  our  pronenefle  to  finnc, 
aptnefle  to  decline ,  inability  to 
withftand  any  one  temptacionjOr 
fet  one  ftep  forward  in  the  way  to 
Heaven,  p.  287, 28  8 

2.  Wee  muft  ftirre  up  our 
fclves  to  reft  upon  God  through 
Jcfus  Chrift ,  for  eftibliihment 
and  confirmation,        p.  288. 289 

5.  Wee  muft  prayinftantly 
that  God  would  uphold  us,  and 
make  us  to  fee  that  hee  willefta- 
blifli  us  unco  the  end,  p.28p,2^a 

Chap.  VI. 

THc  fervams  of  Chrift  are  all 
fouldicrs  j,  and  have  conti- 
all  warre  ,  not  with  flefii  and 
bloud,  but  with  principalities, 
and  powers  ,  and  fpirituall 
wickednefles,  p.  290 

Encouragement  to  refift  Satan  , 

p.290,29l 

Promifes  of  viftory,  p.  291 

In  this  ftate   of  temptation  the 

godly  are  allowed  to  beleeve 

the  promifes  ofviftory. 

For,    1.  The  God  of  peace  hath 

promifed  to  tread  Satan  under 

our  feet  (hortly,        p.291,292 

2.  Faith  doth  glorific  God, 

and  is  moft  profitable  unto  usj 

our  treafure,  ftrcngth,  and  vifto- 

ne,  p.  291 


}.  We  have  a  charge  to  refift 
the  Devill  ftrong  in  the  faith,ibid. 
4.  Faith  is  oneofthefirft 
things  that  is  formed  inaChri- 
ftiari,and  wherewith  God  furni- 
(heth  him,  when  he  prepareth  and 
calleth  him  forth  to  the  encoun- 
«r>  29  J 

5.  The  faithfull  cannot  bet- 
ter provide  for  their  owne  eafr 
and  fafety ,  than  confidently  to 
hope  in  the  Lord,  ibid. 

It  IS  necefliry  a  Chriftian flioulti 
live  by  faith  in  this  condition. 
For ,  1 .  1  rue  valour  cannot  be  had 
without  faith  in  Chnft,    ibid. 
2.   All  our  ftrcngth  liethin 
Chrift,   whofe  Almighty  power 
fubdueth  all  things  for  us  ,  p.  294 
J.  Faith  is  of  force  to  ketpe 
us  againft  all  aflaults  of  theDc- 
v»J^*  ibid. 

4.  The  Dcvill  will  renew 
his  afl^iults,and  wee  muftrene^'^ 
our  courage  and  ftiength,  p.  295 
The  afts  of  faith  in  refpeft  ot 

thefe  promifes  of   viftory  in 

temptation. 

I.  Faith  makes  fenfibic  that 
we  cannot  refift  of  our  felves:  bu' 
afllireth  that  Sitan  is  chained  up 
by  the  pow-er  of  Almighty  God, 

i.  It  dilcovereth  the  Me- 
thods of  Satan  and  his  Ends  in 
tempting,  p.ipg 

5.  It  liftcth  up  the  heart  to 
cry  and  complaine  unto  God  of 
the  cruelty  and  malice  of  thit  fpi 
rituall  Adverfary  ,  but  fufitrs  it 
notjto  mufe  upon  his  biafphe- 
mous  temptations,       p.i96,297 

4.  By  faith  the  poorc  fouli 
eying  thcpromife,  betakes  it  felfc 
unto  the  Lord  for  fuccout  promi- 

^^^  ^-^97 1 
f .It  * 


»y 


contained  in  thisfecondP4rt. 


^.  It  ftirrcth  up  conragc  and 
refolution  to  fet  upon  the  praftice 
uf  godluiefTe,  and  the  duties  of 
our  particular  callmg,  as  the 
mcanes  fandtfied  af  God  to  pro- 
cure freedome,  p.  297,298 

6.  It  fortifieth  the  loule  a- 
gainft  all  invafions,      p.2^8,299 

7.  Faith  IS  vigilant  and 
watchfull  at  all  times,  iaallpla- 
ceSj upon  all  occations,        V'^99 

8.  In  the  raoft  forcible  tem- 
pefts  which  theenemicraifeth  a- 
gainflus,  faith  tels  the  heart  that 
a  calmc  is  at  hand,  p.joo 

9.  If  Satan  renew  his  af- 
faults  ,  faith  ftandi  prepared 
through  the  power  of  God  to 
make  refiftancc  afrefli ,   pagjco 

I  301 

10.  Fairh  aflureth  ,  that  by 
the  over-ruling  providence  of 
God,  temptations  fervefor  the  in- 
creafe  of  grace,  p-joi 
The  godly  are  fometimes  brought 

(o  lowji  h^t  they  can  difcern  no 
fparkoffaith,no  fruit  of  grace, 
no  mai  k  of  Gods  love  in  them- 
fel  ves.For, 

1.  An  afflifted  fpirit,  toffed 
•'vith  feare  and  terrour,  cannot 
conceive  or  give  notice  of  its  tnie 
tftate,  p.  ^oi,?o2 

2.  Good  men  in  temptation 
are  pettiQil  difpofed.  P«302 
The  Remedy  in  this  diftrefle  is, 

X.  Grace  may  appeare  unto 
others  ,  when  in  temptation  a 
godly  man  cannot  difcerneit  in 
himfelfe,  ibid. 

2.  It  is  the  vvifedome  of  a 
Chriftian  in  this  cafe  to  obfervc 
the  marke  that  Satan  drives  at, 
which  is  to  hide  from  his  fight 
the  graces  of  the  Spirit  ,  that  hec 
might  bring  hicn  to  defpaire  :and 


fo  ftirre  up  himfelfe  w  beleeve. 
For, 

1 .  When  he  can  fee  no  grace 
in  hisfoule,  bee  cannot  but  fee 
himfelfe  to  bee miferable  ,  andfo 
called  to  come  unto  Chrift,  p. 

502 

2.  Taking  courage  to  bee 
leevc,he  difappoints  Satan,   ibid. 

3.  Wee  have  a  commandc- 
ment  to  beleevc  as  well  as  to 
proove  our  felves  ,  both  which 
muft  bee  complete  together ,  p. 

4.  If  thou  canft  not  find  in 
thy  fclfe  what  thou  feekcft  after, 
come  unto  Jefus  Chrift,  and  be- 
leeve  in  him,  that  thou  mayft  re- 
ceive what  thou  feckeft,         ibid. 

3.  The  diftrtffcd  foule  muft 
learne,  that  the  grace  of  God  wor- 
keth  not  alwaies  alike  in  his  chil- 
dren, ibid. 

4.  The  long  and  manifold 
temptations  of  Satan,  wherewith 
hee  fetkes  to  throw  Chriftians 
head-long  into  defpaire,is  to  them 
ateftimony  of  the  inhabitation  of 
the  fpirit  in  their  hearts,  p.  J03 . 

Mcanes  to  ftirre  up  faith  in  thefc 
perplexities  and  times  of  grie- 
vous temptations. 

1.  The  diftreffed  Chriftian 
muft  unfjincdly  humble  his  foule 
for  former  ignorance ,  vanitic  of 
mind;  dif-efteeme  of  mercy,  timo- 
roufneffe ,  difcontent ,  unbeleefe , 
ace.  p.;o4>?o5 

2.  Hee  muft  complaine  of 
the  malice  of  Satan,  and  inftantly 
intreat  the  Lord  to  pardon  finne, 
bridle,reftrainc,  and  tread  Satan 
underfoot,  P-305,jo6 

5. He  muft  ceafe  to  mufe  on 

the  temptations  of  Satan,   and 

A  4  ftirre 


Jf'^ 


A  Tabu  of  the  ft  incifdi  matters 


ftirre  up  himfclfc  couragcoufly  , 
valiintly  to  truft  in  the  mercies  of 
the  Lord,and  rely  upon  his  grace, 
pjo7,3o8 
4.  Hce  muft  exercife  him- 
felfe  in  well  doing,  harbour  holy 
and  heavenly  Meditations ,  nou- 
rifli  the  motions  of  Gods  Spirit, 
&c.  p.jo8,}09,&c. 

If  the  diftrefled  Chriftian  have 
wafted  his  fpirits  with  violent 
and  continuall  forrow,he  muft 
bee  admoniflied,  not  to  thinke 
that  prefently  hee  (hould  reco- 
ver former  livelineffc  and  abi  • 
lity,  p.  J II 

Chap.VII. 

AFfliftions  are  not  mere  ordi- 
nary, than  heavie  and  bur- 

thenfome  to  be  borne,  P-  3  1 1 
Wee  ftand  in  need  to  be  holpen 

againft  difcouragements  in  af- 

fliftion,  P'Ji* 

God  correfteth 

i.In  greatwifedome,       ibid. 

i.  Meafure,  ibid. 

5.  For  a  moment,    p.J  1  i, J 1 3 

4.  In  bve  and  tenderncfle^  p. 

IH 

And  that    i.  To  prove,    i.  To 

purge.     J.  To  refine.    4.  To 

conrirme  grace,       p.  ?  i3>3i4 

He  will  deliver  the  righteous  out 

of  trouble,  P'3^4 

Is  tender  over  them  in  trouble,  p. 

And  prefent  for  their  helpe,  pag. 

3'5 

It  is  moft  neceffary  that  we  learne 

to  live  by  faith  in  affiiftions, 

ibid. 

For  I.  Faith  is  the  ground  of  fi- 

lent  and  quiet  expedation  of 

falvation,  P*  3  '^ 


X,  Faith  in  Godistheonl) 
ftay  and  fupport  of  the  heart  in 
trouble  and  afflidion,  ibid. 

}.  Faith  is  the  (hield  of  the 
foulc  ,  whereby  it  is  defended  a- 
gainlt  all  the  fiery  darts  of  the 
Dcviil,  p.317 

4.  Faith  onely  fupplics  all 
our  wants  inafflidion,  pag.  317 
318 
f.  Afflidions  profit  not,  if 
they  bee  not  mixed  with  faith  in 
them  that  beare  them,  P-  ? » 8 
The  godly  are  allowed  to  live  by 

faith  in  offliftions. 

For,  1.  Godlinifte  hath  the  pro- 

mife  of  this  life, and  thai  which 

is  to  cone,  P-J^S 

X.  The  godly  h.ive  had  this 

confidence  in  former  times^whoft 

pradice  is  both  a  token  of  our 

priviledge ,   and  patterne  of  our 

duty,  P,  J 1 8,?  19 

3.  God  is  hereby  much  glo- 
rified ,  that  wterely  upon  him  as 
our  rock  of  defence,  P-  3  ^9 

4.  The  Lord  commandeth  us 
to  wail  upon  him  in  times  of 
trouble,  ibid. 

5.  ConfiJence  in  God  doth 
the  more  bind  him,  as  it  were,  to 
doe  us  good,  p.  319,3  to 
The  afts  of  fiith  in  refped  of 

thefe  promifirs. 

I.  It  looketh  unto  God,  and 

acknowledgeth  his  hand  in  all  af- 

fliftion$,whofoever  be  the  inftrn- 

ments,  p.  3  20 

2.  Itteacheth  that  we  are  in 

fuchdiftreflis.out  of  which  none 

can  helpe  uj,butth€  ftrong  helper 

oflfrael,  p.3  20,321 

This  drawes  the  heart  from  car- 

nall  repofe  in  means  or  friends, 

and  expels  vexations  and  di- 

ftrading  cares,  ibid. 


'■rtfn-  if II wrMrt>fliWai> 


contained  in  this  fecond  Part, 


g.  It  wilcly  dircd.th  as  to 

confider  ,  that  the  caiifeof  all  mt- 

fery  and  forrow  IS  finne,  pig.jii 

4.      Faith     meekeneth    the 

heart  willingly  to  fubmit  itfelfc 

to  the  good  pleafuie  of  God,  and 

patiently  to  bcarchisconedion, 

p.jii.jii 

Faith  comforteth  the  confcience , 

and  curbech   Hnbiidlcd  pjfli- 

on$,  P-J*i 

The     confideratiom    whereby 

faith    pcifwad^th  unto  meek. 

ncflfe,  bemany,ftrong,and  irre- 

fiaible.  As, 

I.  The  defert  of  finne,  which 
is  fane  greater  than  any  thing  we 
fufter,  PS*i 

1.  Thehandchat  layeth  the 
rod  upon  our  backe  ,  Vi'^.  God 
our  moft  wife,  jiift,  gr:icioiis  and 
loving  Father,  p.  j  22,515 

J.  That  thisaip,  how  bit- 
ter and  wringing  focver,  is  a  me- 
dicine to  cure,  not  a  poy(on  to  de- 
ftroy;  miniftrcd  in  great  love 
and  tender  compaffion  to -drive 
out  corruption,  confirme  faith, 
prefer vc  from  filling ,  ftrengthen 
grace,  weane  froni  the  world,and 
bnngneareruntoGod,p.3ij,?24, 

4.  After  ferious  humiliation 
faith  brirtgcth tidings,  thtGud 
will  looke  downe  from  Heaven 
in  meicy,  and  fend  helpc  in  fitteft 
feafon,  p.jiy^gjtf 

5.  Faith  doth  le-minde  us  of 
our  conformity  with  Chrift  inaf- 
fliftions  ,  and  of  his  pattner-fhip 
with  usthcrcin,  p.  32^ 

6.  Faith  fettcth  before  us 
the  infinite  recompence  of  re- 
ward, p.}  2^,3 17 
Thefiftaft  of  faith,  Itteacheth 

wifdome  to  judge  aright  of  all 


afflidions. 


PJi? 


6.  True  and  unfaincd  con 
fidcnce  will  not  kccpe  fiience  in 
the  eares  of  the  Lord,nor  ceafe  to 
importune  his  aid,  &c.pag.  318 

i'-9 

7.  It  ratfeth  the  heart, being 
confcious  of  Its  weakcni.  flV,to  reli 
upon  the  Lord  for  ftrcngth,  who 
makes  us  able  to  doe  all  things 
through  bis  ftrengthening  of  us, 

PJi9>J?o.3J» 

8.  By  faith  the  godly  heart 
is  drawne  to  ufe  all  meanes  of 
hcipe  that  God  in  his  providence 
doth  affoord,  but  refteth  quietly 
upon  Gods  promifts ,  and  affu- 
rance  of  his  prefcnce  abote  all 
likelihoods  and  appearances ,  p. 

This  manner  of  depcndancc  on 
the  promifes  which  faith  wot k- 
cth,  is  abfolute  without  limita- 
tion of  time,  meafureof affli- 
dion  ,  or  manner  of  delive- 
rance, P-??',??^ 

What  faith  turncth  it  felfe  to  me- 
ditate iiponforfuppor tin  this 

"f<-,  PJ?».HJ 

9.  Faith  belcevcth  one  con- 
trary in  another,  and  out  of  the 
deeptft  diftrcffes  gathercth  aflu- 
rance  offweeteft  deliverances,  p. 

?J?>?34,3gT 
I©.  It  rejoyccth  in  tribula- 
tions, and  triiimpheih  before  the 
vidory,  p.?  3  5 

Wee  muft  live  by  faith  in  the  hi  a 
vicft  affliAions,  and  of  longeft 
continuance,  P-JJ^.Jjtf 

The  afts  of  faith  in  this  cafe. 

1.  It  teachcth ,  that  many 
and  ftrongaffliftions,ofIong  con- 
tinuance, are  no  more  thannccef- 
fary,  P??6,jj7 

i  •    i.  Faith  in  the  gieateft' ex- 
tremities 


-  ■''-  -  -  —  • 


^ 


^  Table  of  the  ^rinci^all  matters 


uimities  luggeltcth,  that  wee  are 

j  under  the  band  of  God,  who  cor- 

(rcdeth    in  meafute  and  for  our 

'  profit  J  who  hath  determined  the 

time  and  weight  of  our   i^fflidi- 

ons  ,     and   by  his  blefllng  will 

turne  them  to  our  good  ,  pag.  j  j  8 

3.  Faith  fetteth  'a  man  a- 
bout  his  wotke  ,  that  is,  fenoufly 
to  make  enquiry  into  his  heart 
and  wayes ,  deepcly  to  hamble 
himfelfc  before  God, and  fervent- 
ly tointteat  mercy  for  flnne  paft, 
wifcdome  to  make  ufe  oi  prefent 
naifeiy,and  favour  to  befet  free,p. 

4.  Faith  raifeth  the  heart  to 
exped  abundance  of  mercy  from 
God,and  through  prayer  and  fup- 
ply  of  the  Spirit  to  leape  profit 
and  cafte  comfort  anfwerable  to 
the  forrowes  it  hatb  felt  and  en- 
dured, P'?40,?4I 
Living  by  faith  intimesoftriall 

and  vifitation ,  doth  fit  and 
prepare  the  heart  toihankfuU 
nefle  when  light  (hall  fhine 
from  on  high  :  and  thtt  fo 
much  the  more ,  as  our  afflifti- 
onshavc  beene  the  (harper ,  p. 

J4I 

In  afflidion  faith  fcemeth  to  bee 

moft  weake ,    and  corruption 

moft  ftirring. 

I.  Many  doubtfull  thoughts 

afcend  inChnftians  hearts,partly 

becaufc  they  know  not  that  they 

are  allowed  to  live  by  faith  in  an 

afBided  ftatc,  partly  becaufe  they 

Judge  anufle  of  their  afH.dions, 

P«H».J42. 

%.  Godsphyficke,  whileft  it 

is  driving  our  corruption,  makts 

us  feelc  and  complamc  of  it  more 

than  ever,  ;.  ;  .ip.34* 


l-  In  afHidions  faith  is  tri- 
ed, the  fweetnefl'e  of  it  is  not  fo 
muchfeic,  ibid. 

4.  It  is  the  office  of  faith  to 
receive  the  portion,  and  further 
the  kindly  working  of  it,  which 
cannot  be  done ,  unlefle  it  ftirri- 
up  godly  forrow ,  and  wreftl 
painfully  to  drive  out  corruption, 

P'54i 

Htlpes  to  ftirre  up  faith  in  dcepi 

afHidions  when    all   meanes 

failc. 

1.  Wee  muft  by  open  oui 

forrowes  before  the  Lord  ,  and 

powre  out  our  complaint  befort 

him,  P-J43»J44 

z,  Confeffe  our  finncj  with 

hatrc  d  and  godly  forrow  ,     pag 

J44 

5.  Take  up  our  hearts  for  hal- 
ting through  unbtilcefc  ,  and  call 
upon  them  to  reft  'othepromife 
ot  divine  aid,  afliHance,  and  deli- 
verance, P-344  34  5 

4.  Importune  the  Loid,  and 
dired  our  fupplications  btfcre 
him,  p.546 

f.  Quicken  our  refolution 
to  truft  in  the  Lord  at  all  times  , 
even  when  all  refuge  failcth,p. 

i4<Sj47 
Chap.  VIIL 

God  hath  made  many  promi> 
fes  of  earthly  bl(.ffings,p. 

347 
In  fpeciall  the  Lord  promilcth 
lengr  h.of  daieSjheal  thjftrengtb, 
wealth, fjvour,  peace,joy,good 
fucci-ffe,rafety,good  name :  aad 
all  ihcfenot  oiKJy  to  the  righ- 
teous thcmfelvps,  bar  to  their 
children  and  pofterity,  P.J48, 

349. 3JO 
It 


^'w 


contained  in  this  fe con d  Part, 


It  is  necefiary  to  bclceve  thefe 
promifeSjfor, 

I.  Faith  in  thefe  promifes 

doth  kill  covetous   dclires ,  di- 

ftruftfiiU  and  diftrading  cares,  p. 

350. ?y' 

1.  Hec  will  never  renounce 
carnall  fupporcs,  who  makes  not 
God  the  lUy  of  his  foule  for  out- 
ward things,  P-J^^ 

J.  Beleefe  in  God  brings 
goodfucctflc,  ibid. 

4.  If  wee  cleave  not  to  the 
promifes  ot  God  made  concerning 
temporall  things,  wefliallidhcre 
to  the  promifes  of  life  with  kflc 
afliurancc,  ibid. 

f .  Faith  fwectneth  and  fan- 
ftifiethumo  usiheufe  of  all  out- 
ward comforts  under  our  hands  , 
p.352 
The  godly  are  allowed  to  live  by 
faith  touching  thefe  promifes: 
For, 

I.  Seeing  God  hath  given 
Chrift  for  us ,  how  fliall  hee  not 
wuh  him  alfo  freely  give  us  all 
things?  P'jy* 

2.  The  Lord  by  covenant 
hath  promifed  to  furnifh  his  peo- 
ple with  all  ncedfuU  bicfliugs 
pertaining  to  this  hfe,         P-STJ 

3.  God  isourfaithfullCre- 
atour,wetheworkeof  hishands  : 
He  is  our  Shcpheard,  we  the  flock 
of  his  p.ifturt :  He  is  our  Father, 
we  his  children,  P-354,?5y 

4.  The  patient  exp.<Sation 
of  the  Saints  hath  confirmed  this, 
that  God  will  not  bee  wanting  to 
his  children  in  things  of  this  life, 

P-?Tf 
The  ads  of  faith  in  tcfpeft  of 
thefe  promifes. 

1 .  It  preferveth  from  the  ufe 
of  all  unlawfull  meanes,  knowing 


that  nothing  can  profper  which 
God  approvcthnot,  P'35^ 

2.  Faith  is  painfull,  provi- 
dent and  frugall,  P-  3  57 

?.  It  maketh  enquiry  into 
the  heart ,  turnethfiom  evill,and 
feeketh  the  face  of  the  Lord  ear- 
neitly,  ibid. 

4.  It  ftirreth  up  to  pray 
without  diftruftfuUjfiuitleffe,  cx- 
celfive  care,  &c.  P-JjS 

S  It  feeth  riches  in  God  , 
fubmitteth  to  his  wifdome  ,  reft- 
eth  in  his  love  ,  and  fo  maintain- 
neth  a  Chriftian  in  fome  meafure 
oicontcntation,  ibid. 

6.  In  profperity  it  kecpeth 
the  heart  in  an  holy  temper  and 
difpofition  ;  in  humility  and 
meeknefle ,  teiiderneffc  and  com- 
paffion,  p.  3^9 

7.  It  prayeth  as  earncftly  for 
the  fandification  of  profperity, 
and  Gods  blcfling  upon  the 
meanes  ,  as  for  the  meanes  them- 
felvcs  if  they  were  wanting,  pag 

360 

8.  It  makes  heavenly  min- 
ded in  the  ufe  and  pofleflion  of  a 
profpcrous  eftate,  P-?^0}36i 

9.  Faith  breeds  godly  jealou- 
(ic  and  fufpition  ,  Icaftthe  heart 
fliould  bedrawneaway  with  the 
pleafing  delights  of  things  tranfi- 
tory,  p.j^i 

10.  It  mindcth  us  of  our 
change ,  even  when  our  moun- 
taine  feemeth  ftrongeft,  p.j62 
How  to  live  by  faith  in  the  ufe  of 

meat  and  drinke. 

1  r.  By  faith  we  leame  out  of 
the  Word  of  God  ,  who  hath 
fonne-like  interclt  and  title  unto 
the  creatures  ,  what  creatures  are 
fandified  unto  our  ufe ,  and  how 
each  man  muft  fandiHe  them  by 

a 


#; 


^• 


^A  Table  of  the  frincifall  matters 


a  itvfreniandholy  ufe,  P-J^J 
».  It  receivcth  them  not  as 
the  fruit  of  GUI'  fore-caft,  la- 
bour ,  or  defert,  but  as  gitts  of 
Gods  bounty  ,  yea  as  gifts  of  the 


gracious  covenant, 


ibid. 


g.  By  fsithweearetaught , 
that  man  liveth  not  by  bread  on- 
ly, but  by  the  providence  of  God, 
and  his  blefling  upon  his  own  or- 
dinance, P-J^4 
This  perfwafion  takes  the  heart 
off  the  creature,  and  lifteth  it 
up  unto  the  Lord  in    carncft 
and  pertinent  prayer,        ibid. 
4.  Itteacheth  to  be  heavenly 
minded  ,  labouring  to  tafte  Gods 
goodneHe  ,  and  fecle  his  gracious 
prefcncc  with  our  fpirits  at  our 
fweeteft  feafts,  ibid. 
y.  Faith  worketh  the  heart 
to     fobriety    and    moderation, 
watchfulnefle  and  feare  ,   left  it 
(hould  bee  enfnared  and  drawne 
away  with  thefe  delights,  p.  36^ 

I  6»  It  lifteth  up  the  foule  in 

thankfgiving,  p.?  66, 3  67 

7.    Faith  is  frugall,   com- 

paflionate,  induftrious,  pag.  367 

Chap.  IX. 

THe  Lord  calls  for  willing, 
chcerefull,  univerfall,  unfai- 
ned,  conftant  obedience,  pag.367 

Looke  what  fervicc  the  Lord 
doth  expcft  and  call  for,that  he 
will  inable  his  people  in  cove- 
nant to  performe,   p.  j63,?69 

The  obedience  of  the  faithfull  is 

imperfeft,  but  pleafing,   p.  j  69 

370 

This  faith  is  moft  neceflary  to  the 
leading,  of  aChriftianlifc,/^*/. 


to  reft  upon  God  for  ability  to 
doe  what  hee  requiccth,  &c. 
For, 

1.  The  word  of  grace  teach- 
eth  us  to  deny  ungodline$,&c.37 1 

2.  Want  of  beleeving  the 
precepts  is  the  caufe  why  many  do 
ftill  continue  in  the  praftice  of  di- 
vers things  inconvenient ,     ibid. 

3.  Ignorance  m  this  point  is 
the  caufe  why  fomeof  the  better 
fort  of  people  are  off  and  on,  &c. 

ibid. 

4.  Faith  carrieth  a  man  whi- 
therfoever  hee  fhiU  fee  the  Lord 
to  goe  before  him,  ibid. 

5 .  Our  prtfent  faith  is  com- 
mcnfurable  to  our  fidelity  in 
GodsCommandcmcnts,  p3g.}7» 

6.  That  aft  cannot  pleafe 
God ,  which  is  not  animated  by 
faith ,  P'37* 

7.  WhenaChiiftianknow* 
not  whether  hee  flrll  have 
ftrength  to  doe  what  God  reqiii- 
reth,  or  his  poore  fervicc  (hall  find 
acceptance  ,  it  muft  needs  occafi- 
on  many  feares  and  doubts,  dead- 
nefTe  and  unchearefulnefre,p.  371 

37? 

8.  Confidence  in  God  to  be 
inabled,  ftrengihencd,  and  accep- 
ted ,  will  cut  ofFtemptations  and 
difcouragements  ,  and  noiirifli 
courage,  refolution,and  forward- 
ncfle  in  well  doing,  ?•??< 
Chnftians  are  allowed  to  beleeve 

that  God  will    inable  them  to 
walke  in  obedience. 

li  God  hath  promifed  in 
his  covenant  to  teach  them  the 
way  that  they  (hall  chufe,  p.  3  74 
2,  When  he  fends  forth  his 
fervants  upon  any  bufineffe,  hee 
doth  evermore  promife  to  aid  and 
aflift' 


«  ^ 


contained  in  this  fecond  Part^ 


alsiii  them  in  the  execution  of  it, 
ibid. 

3.  The  fervants  of  God  have 
and  doe  beg  grace  to  bring  forth 
fruits  worthy  repentance  and  .1- 
mendmentoflife,         P-374,?7? 

4.  The  fauhfull  have  bound 
themfclvesby  covenant  and  oath 
to  keep  the  righteous  judgements 
of  the  Lord,  p.57y 

f .  God  will  perfeft  the  fa- 
ying worke  which  he  hath  begun 
many  of  bischildrcn,  ihid. 

The  afts  of  faith  touching  obedi- 
ence required. 

r.  It  makes  a  man  wife  to 
difcernc  what  ii  lawfull,  good, 
and  feafonabic,  F  57* 

2.  It  airbes  inordinate  paf- 
fions,  and  overcomes  all  impcdi- 
mentSjtemptations,diflficulticsand 
alliuremcnts  to  the  contrary,  p. 

?7tf,i77,?78 

3.  Itpurifieth  the  hcdrr,Iea^ 
foneth  every  facultie  of  (bule,qna- 
Iifiethand  fH-engthencth  niturall 
inclinations,  alceteth  the  ftate  of 
every  appetite ,  and  fo  inableth  to 
obey,  p.378 

4.  Admirable  in  force  and 
efficacy  is  the  pcrfwafion  of  faith 
above  all  the  oratory  in  the  world, 

P-378,379. 

f.   It  difpofcih  and  moveth 

the  heart  to  abfolute  ,  uniforme, 

unpaniall and  conftant obeditn  e, 

p.?79,?8o 

6.  It  fires  the  heart  with  un- 
querKhable  love,  ^vhich  in  com- 
parifon  of  obedience  contemneth 
the  whole  world,  P-?8o 

7.  Faith  makes  fenfiblc  of 
our  manifold  infirroities:andthac 
hath  bleffed  effc<fh. 

I.  Itcaufeth  fcrious  me- 
ditation upon  the  Word  of  G  od, 


that  Tt  might  £nk.c  deepe  into  ih: 
heart,  p.  381 

1.  It  worketh  the  heart 
often  to  renew  n^i^  refoluuon,  tru- 
ftmg  in  Gods  grace,  iLid. 

.3.   It  ftirrcs  op  earueft 
and  hearty  prayer'  to'bee  ta  -ghc , 
upheld,  and  couficmed,  p.ig.381 
382 
8.  It  doth  confirme  in  obe- 
dience,and  prick  forward  therein, 
though  it  be  in  manifold  and  bit- 
ter perfeciuions,  P'J^^jjSj 
Meants  how  to  quicken  our  taith 
to  ihc   chearefxU  pra^ice  of 
that  duty,  whereunto  wee  find 
our  fdves  dull  and  fliiggifh. 
1.    Wee  muft  acknowledge 
and   bevraile   this  duInefTe  and 
floth,makc  it  hateful!,  and  iTiamc 
our  felrcs  for  it  before  the  Lord, 
p.383,}84 
1.  Call  upon  our  foidcs  by 
many  powerful!  and  firong  pcr- 
fwafions  to  awake  to  the  worke 
pfGod  withlitelincfle,  pag.385, 
:    ,  ■  38^ 
?.    Pray  to  the  Lord  that  he 
would  levive  and  quicken  us,  p. 
386 
4.    Renew  our  refolution  to 
walke  with  God,  truftingin  his 
gtace,                                   ibid. 

Ch  AP.   X.' 

CHriflians  arc  allowed  to  live 
by  faith'in  the  duties  of  their 
vocation.    For  ,  I.  God  hath 
commanded  us  to  labour  in  a 
calling  ,     1.    Prefcribed  rhc 
bounds  of  om  calling,  ^,  And 
promifed  his  blcfsing  to  our 
honeft  endeavours ,    pag,  3  87 
3S8 
It  is  neccfTary  wee  Ciould  live  by 
faith 


iftibdai 


.-2. 


eA  Table  of  the  frineipall  matters 


taith  intbc  ^uucs  of  oar  voca- 
tion. 
1.  To  prevent  the  evils 
which  befet  us  in  our  ordinary 
callings  ,  as  covetoufnefle  ,  inju- 
ftict,  impatience,  anddiftrading 
care,  P'?88 

1.  That  worke  is  not  accep- 
table ,  which  is  not  done  in  faith, 

p.588,}99 
The  afts  of  faith  in  refpcft  of  the 
duties  of  our  calling. 
i«  It  informeth  to  make 
choice  of  an  honeft  vocation  for 
which  wee  are  fitted  ,  and  into 
which  we  may  enter  by  good  and 
lawful!  meanes,  P<5  8p 

2.  Faith  inftrufteth  not  to 
meddle  above  our  knowledge,  but 
to  leane  upon  the  living  God,  not 
on  our  skill  orcimning,  pag.  389 

J.  It  quickeneth  the  moft 
skilfuU  workman  to  ftrive  with 
God  in  prayer,  that  the  worke  he 
fctteth  about  might  fucceed  well, 
andprofper,  P'?$0 

4.  It  caufeth  diligence,  care, 
uprightncfle  and  faithfulneffe  in 
all  the  workes ,  aftions  and  bufi- 
ncfle  of  our  calling ,  as  knowing 
that  whileft  wee  walke  honeftly 
therein,we  do  fervice  to  the  Lord, 
p.590,391 

f.     It  encoarageth  to  the 

moftdfEcult,  painefuU,  and  (in 

the  worlds  efteeme  )  difgracebll 

workes  of  our  callings,  pag*  391 

391 

4.  It  ftrengtheneth  agamft 
manifold  troableSjdifgraceSjOppo- 
fitions  and  difcouragemencs  that 
men  meet  wiihall  in  their  places , 

p.?9i.39J 

7.  It  direAs  wifely  to  order 

the  affaires  of  our  calling ,  and  to 


goe  about  them  in  good  manner, 

P-593 

8.  It  teacheth  to  moderate 
cares,  confine  defires of  earthly 
things  ,  and  commit  our  felves  to 
G  od  for  the  fuccefle  of  our  workj 

P'3>3>394 

9.  It  fupportetb  with 
ftrength  patiently  to  beare  the  ca- 
lamities that  accompany  us  in  our 
callings,  p.394>?9f 

lo.Faithrcftraineth  diftrull- 
full  care  concerning  the  fuccefle 
of  our  labours ,  but  is  not  fl  icke 
to  crave  Gods  bkfling  upon-our 
labours,  P'?9J 

1 1.  If  wee  find  wiflied  fuc- 
cefle ,  it  makes  vigilant,  frugal  1 , 
humble,m6rci(iill  and  thankcfull, 
p.  ^9^,^96 
iz.  Faith  coupleth  the  la- 
bours of  our  calling  with  the  pra- 
fticeofChriftianity,  P  39^ 

How  wee  fliould  live  by  faith 
touching  the  fuccefle  of  thar 
worke  whereunto  wee  are  cal- 
led ,  which  wee  finde  to  bee 
much  above  our  itrengtb  or 
meanes. 

1.  Faith  caufeth  felfe  dcni- 
all  in  refpeft  of  judgement,  wif- 
dome,  and  power,       p.  j  96^^  97 

2.  It  teacheth  fubmiflion  to 
Gods  diredion,  and  dependance 
upon  his  aid,he]pe,  and  afliftance, 

P-?  97,398 
The  props  of  this  faith  are  two. 

1.  The  cxaft  infinite  wif- 
dome  of  God  ,  who  knoweth 
what  meanes  bee  fittobeeufcd 
now,and  what  not,  P'398 

2.  Gods  providence  vvhich 
rales  iti  every  thing  which  fills 
our,even  the  leaft  matters,     ibid. 

3.    Faith  thus  underprop- 
ped bringeth  forth  induflry  and 
endeavour' 


««■■■■«■ 


contained  in  this  ffcond  Part^ 


J-y  ♦ 


endeavoui'  to  obfeivc  God  in  his 

proYidence,  0.398.^99 

4.  Faith  cannot  bee  fiicnt : 

Hee  that  belceveth    will    pray, 

P-?99 
f.  Ic  putteth  life  and  har- 

dine0e  into  us,  ibid. 

6.  It  waiteth  upon  God  for 
good  fucceiTc,  and  ttiumpheth  be- 
fore the  vidory,  ibid, 

7.  Faith  is  ready  and  for- 
ward to  praife  God  for  good  fuc- 
cc^,  p.  J  9^.400 


Chap.   XI. 

THere  be  many  promifes  made 
in  Scripture,  that  God  will 
bleflc  hii  owne  ordinances  to 
bis  peoples  good,  pag  400  401 
4ai 
Thete  promifes  are  firme  grounds 
whereupon  the   faithfull  may 
build  this  affiance  ,  that  by  the 
confcionable  ufe  of  Gods  holy 
.  ordinances,  hee  (Kail  bee  made 
Wife  BQco  falvation,  &c.  pag. 

The  ferious  meditation  of  thefc 

things  is  exceeding  profitable 

.  ,,to  quicken  and  encourage  lui- 

-:  jo,chcarefuU  and  conftant.at, 

.'  tcndancs'  upon  Godi  in  his  or- 

.  diiunces,  p.4Oz,40j 

It  is  neccflary  to  live  by  faith  in 

the  ufe  of  Gods  ordinances. 

.  I.  It  availeth  not  to  live  un- 
der the  Gofpel,  if  it  bee  not  recei- 
ved in  faith,  p^i 
z,  ItisnotrufHciemtohave 
iaitb,  but  it  nuifi  bee  ex«rcifed  t« 
receive  tlut  grace,    which    the 

Word  of  God  doth-xeacbuswitH 
^:heualc,  1',,.     ibid. 


The  ads  of  faith  in  the  ufe  of 
Gods  ordinances. 
I.    It  teacbcth   to  worfliip 
the  true  God  purely,  pag.  40 j 

404 
1.  It  dclighteth  greatly  tu 

behold  -the   face  of  God  in  his 

Sanduaty,  f.^o/^^^o^ 

3.,    It  (eeketh  acquaintance 

with  God,  and  the  knowledge  of 

his  will  in  Jefus  Chrift,     '  p.40f 

4.  It  gleweth  the  heart  cloft 

to  the  Word,  rcceivcth  and  pof- 

feffpth  the  good  things  promifcd, 

and  changeth  the  difpoluion  of 

(bule  into  the  nature  of  the  Word, 

P40< 

%    Is  quickeneth   to   ferve 

God  in  the  ufe  of  all  his  ordinan. 

CCS  with  di lrgcnce,chearefulnefle, 

and  beft  endeavour,       p. 40^^407 

Parents  thould   in  faith  prcfent 

their  children  to  God  m  Bap- 

tifme,  P-407 

The  adi  of  faiih.  in  this  panicu- 

la*. 

.1.  Ic  cal(e(h  to  remem- 
brance the  free  and  gracious  co- 
venant, which  God  h^h  made 
with  beleeving  Parents  and  their 
pofterity,  p,4O7,408 

z.  By  faith  the  beleeving  pa- 
rents m^give  thcmTclves  unto 
GodjChufing  him  tp  be  their  por- 
tion, andrefigningthemfelvesin 
all  things  to  bee  guided  by  his 
Word,  P4°8 

3.  Ij  provokes  Parcnu  to  of- 
fer their  children  unto  God  by 
hearty  and  unfaincd  prayer,  as 
foone  as  ev;r  thfey  haive  received 
them  from  him, '  ibid. 

4.  Ic^oaiiderethwhatafin- 
gular  prerogative  ic  is, to  be  adu« 
ally  admitted  ipto  Covenant 
with    God ,   received  into  bis 

family 


-^ 


ityfTa^Uof^rfrincifdU  matpers 


"family  ,  aft<i to  haVi-hiSname  put  7.   Ic  rt'ifcalc  and  pledge 

Huponus,  ..  n.r;L!  i'  P4C9  tQt^flUre,  that  God  will  provide' 
■  Fervent 'cffefti'ia1I'i>t'ayer  dcith  ac-  '•forus  '\n  this  life,  raife  up  our  bo- 
cotnpany  thefe  medications  oi  dies  unto  life  at  the  laft  day  of 
fjith  il^'d'    Judgement,  and  beftow  upon  us 

•th/t  everlaftmg  Kingdornc'tind  in- 

JieritancCjwhich  be  hath  prepared, 

■,.,h   r    c.      f  :■       ibid.. 

'      i.it  f'sa  fealeofoftr  duty  pro 
mifcd. 

T.  tt  is  af^urrc  to  repen- 
tance and   mortihcation ,    cag. 

^.  It  is  3  provocation  unto 
faith,  and  a  pledge  thereof,  pag. 

3.  It  is  an  incitement  unto 
new  obedience  ,  and  a  pledge 
thereof,  p.4it,4i(J 

>         4.  It  is  a  pledge  and  pawnr 
ofiove  and  unity,  P-4i6 

Thenw  excrcifc  of  faith  is  re- 
quired in  the  worthy  receiving 
■  of  the  Lords  Supper,         ibid. 
The  afts  of  faith  in  receiving  the 
Lords  Supper. 

1 .  By  it  we  difcerne  the'Sa- 
cramem  co  be  the  holy  Ordinance 
of  God,  inftituted  for  ourfpcciall 
good  and  benefit,  fealing  unto  us 
the  promifes,  which  God  of  his 


y.  It  ftirreth  up  licfltty  re- 
I  joycing  ift'  the^Lord,  that'hce 
'  hath':  v6iB:hfafcd  in  tendeu^com- 
paflion  to  loofte  upon  th^mand 
their  pofterity  ,  and  thus  to  ho- 
nour and  ddvancc  them,  pag.409 
410 
^.  It  ftirreth  wp  parents  to 
be  diligent  and  carefull  to  bring 
up  their  children  in   the  infor- 
mation and  featc  of  the  Lord,  p. 
...  410 

By    faith  wee    (houU    make   a 
right  ufe  of  our  Baptifme  all 
.'' the  dstyesofoM  life,    p3g>4fe 

The  ufe  W  bee  tralifebf  Baptifme 
i  is  twofold, 

"  i.It  ferves  to  be  a  pledge  and 
token  of  G  ods  favour :  for 

1.  It  is  afealeofourRegc- 
rfgration  by  tie  holy  Spirit,  pag. 

ih'm  i;|l<icbnfitmetK  unto  us  the 
free  pardon  and  fprgivenefle  of 
our  Ghnes,  it'id* 


'I.  Baptifme  is 'a  pledge  of    ftefe  mercy -hatHthade  us  in  Jefus 
«ie    vettuc;  of  Cifjrjfts  -death;^    Chrift,  "_J-  '  '       '  ^  p.4i6,4i7' 


and  'of'btrr  felttiwfliij  tberern  1 

111— .!-^rn;ij^r!:;j:vKri-  ibidl 
i!'  '  4.  It  ts'Jilfo  a  pledge  of  the 
Vei5tiieof  Chtiftslife,  and' of  our 
cbmmuritoh' •  with   hini  therein, 

^t':  .ni'-  oi'.i.  ..'  :'   .,\-j  r,  fbid*. 

■"••  s  y»"Ba{*ilWc''is'  i'  pledge  of 
bitl:'ad6^trtA<'irt:5rfus  Ghttftj'pag. 
,!>•;. I  _  _  .f"/ ryO '41* 
-  '  'tf, '■Baptifi'rtC''ii  a  '(olemne 
teftiiTwiny  \'<Jf  oui:    communion 


■y  2^ By  it  wee  fecWhat'the 
Ijord  doth  offer  untous  thertin, 
how  excellent  and  precious  it  is  , 
WTtb  whit  alTurance  it  is  freely 
tendered,  and  rnay  be  re.ceived,  p. 

-i.j.^  Jj.'  It  fHarpe^ncth  fpiritiiall 
lap|)etite,  and  ftirreth  up  hiingring 
and  "Airfting  after  Chrift  and 
his  behefits,  ibid. 

4.  It  earneftly  contendeth 


with  all  t^h^  lively  members  of    formercyj  confeffing  finne  with 
Chrift  Jeftfr,   -  '      ibid,    griefe  and  hatred,  &c.  ibid. 


eentainedin  this  fecond part. 


'?.  By  faith  wcc  receive 
Chrift  offering  himfclfe  freely  to 
be  contraded  unto  us,  pag.417 
418 
S.  By  faith  wee  refigne  up 
our  fcive?  unto  Jefus  Chnlt,  and 
Willingly  yceld  foulc  and  body 
untohi.n.  P-4"^ 

r.F^ithfccdeth  uponChnil-, 
and  fuckcch  viszour  from  him, 
ibid. 
8.  Faith  sflureth'of  that 
fpirituafl  coHtraift  which  hith 
palled  betwixt  Chrift  and  the 
Chriftian  foulc,  and  isfealcdm 
the  Sacrament 


Chap.  XII. 

THc  faithfull  are  bound  ,   and 
It  IS  bchovcfull  for  them  to 
bclicvcthe  thrcr:tnings,        p  411 
The  godly  man  is  not  flaviijily 
to  Icare   falling  nway  or  run- 
ning  ima  dcftnidionj  but  wife- 
ly to  believe  the  threarnings  to 
prevent  falli.ig  mtofinne,  and 
fo  into  condemnatianj      p.421 
I.  The  threatnings  are  part 
of  the  Word  of  God,  ibid. 


, 2.  In  the  ftjte  of  innoccncy 

icrament,  p.418.419    there  wasufc  or  threunings,  fo  is  I 

9.  It  ftirreth    up  joy   and    there  in  the  ftatc  of  grace,      jbjd. 
thankful nede,   with  feriouj  re-  ?.  Promifesand  threatninoj 

mcmbrance  ot  the  manifold  bicf-  mingled,  fit  our  ft.ne,  and  ferve 
fings,  which  in  Chnft  Jefus  arc  to  keepe  the  heart  in  the  bcft  teni- 
vouchfafcd.  p  419.420    per,  p  412.415 

Mcaius    to  ftinc   up  our  fdvcs    The  ac^s  of  faith  in  refpcd  of  the 
to  receive  the  Lords  Supper  in        thrcatnings. 
faith.  I.   It  worketh  humblenefTe 

I.  Wcc  mud  bewailc  our   ofmind  and  heart,  P  423 

anbclicfe,  dulnefl'e,  earthly-min-  2.  It  bringcth  forth  awfuU 

dcdiuflc.ihe  diftemper  ofourfpi-    nefle, reverence  and feare,    p423 


rituall  t.ifte,&c.  p  4  10 

2.  Confider  how  freely  the 

Lord  doth  tender  Chrift  to  bee 


4>4 

5.  Itftirrcth  up  continual! 

watchfulneflfe  to  fhun  whatfoe- 


rcceived  in  his  Word  and  Sacra-  vcr  might  breed  danger,  or  pro- 
ment.  ibid,    cure  Gods  difplcafurc.         P'4i4 

%.  Weigh  and  confiJer  the  4    The    thrcatnings    min- 

blfffld  ft.nc  and  condition  of  gled  with  faith,  caufe  forrowfull 
them,  who  bee  reconciled  unto  melting  or  relenting  of  heart  for 
God,&£.  ibid,  finne  committed,        p  424.415 

4.  Having     troth- plighted  J.  When  wcc  fee  by  faith 

our  felyes  to  Jefus  Cnift  unfai-  from  what  mifencs  wc  arc  dcli- 
nedly.  Wee  muft  awaken  and  vcrcd,  of  the  free  gr  ice  and  mercy 
rowfcu{)our  foulcs  to  rejoycc  in  ofGod,  our  Vc;»ts  are  enlarged  in 
him.  P34*i    ptaifc  andl^thSnKSgivjng,      p  415 

This  life4*ijf^ithis  moftfxcellent 
and  comfortable :  for, 

1.  By  faith  wee%^dir«^ed 

to  fcekc  and  follow 'Sft^<:^rift, 

till  wc  come  to  be  aflfured  that  he 

a  dwfl- 


^ 


'-2^- 


A  Tt^y^fth^yutcifoJH  mattes 


4weUech  in  us  as  the  founcaine  of  chearefulneflc. 


fbid. 


life,  and  that  in  hitn  w<e  arc  deli- 
vered from  the  guilt  and  punifh- 
mcnt  of  all  our  finnes,  ibid. 

2,  By  this  faith  wee  may 
come  to  found  reft  and  holy  fecii- 
rity  abaut  oar  falvation  from 
time  to  time,  P'4*^ 

J.  If  God  lead  us  into  the 
dirte,    by  this  faith  wx   are 


^.  By  it  wee  walks  in  our 
callings  chearefuUy  ,  honcftly , 
painfully, &c.  ibid. 

6.  This  faith  tcachcth  us 
to  pray  at  all  times  as  our  ncccf- 
(ities  require.  ibid. 

7-  Ifthc  iffliftion  bee  vciy 
gricvoiis  aid  of  long  coiuinu- 
ance,  i nth  doth  neither  (juaiIc,nor 


enabled  to  bold  him  by.  the  hand,  ceafetofeckchclpc,  p.+i/ 

ibid.  8 .    The  life  of  faith  iiull 

4.  Hereby  the  rage  of  finne   end  in  joy  and  comfort,       ibid, 
is  weakened,   and  we  have  grace  9-  Hec  that  hath  learned  to 

towalkc  in  newnefic  of  life,  and   live  by  faith,    ft>all  alfo  die  in 
all  the  parts  of  it  with  joy  and   futh^  ibid. 


SpeciallT^exts  of  Scripture  expom^ 
dedin  this  Treatife. 


^^^.ij.^.par.i.cap.g.pag.ip. 

f*<7«^.i4.3  i.par.i.cap.9.pag. i^^>I  2p,&  ca.  3  pag.  ip. 

Exod,\^.g  par.i.cap.p.pag.i2p. 

2  CAr*;;, 2 0.20. ibid. 

P/i/.  I  p  1 2. par.  I  .cap. S.pag.  1  g 8. 

^.r4.32.par.i.capp.pag.i29. 

/«rr.i  7.p.par.i.cap.8.pag.ico, 

i74^.j.4.par.i.cap.2.pag.i2. 

^4//^.5.i7.par,i.cap.8.pag.i5. 

yi/4f/A.p.27.2  8.par  i.cap.^.pag.7^, 

Mtitth,\6,i  6.par.  i.ci»p-  3.pag.28.&  cap.^.pag,72. 

Matth.  ip.  I  y.pa.  I  .cap.S.pag,  i  n, 
M^nh,22.i  i,par.i.cap.4.pag.5 1, 
^wz/^.aj:.!  i.par.i.cap.4.pag.53. 
-^»47-P.par.2.cap.^.pag.7|.74. 
-i«iii.i3.par.i.cap.a.pag.8. 
M.i.4P.jo.par*i.cap.6.pag.76. 
/<?^.5.35.par.i  cap.3.pag,37. 
loh.  1 2 .42^3. par.  I  .cap.4.pag.49. 
70^.20,3  i.par.i.cap.S.pag.io8» 
-^<5F.8.3  7.3  S.par.i  .cap.tf.pag.75  .&  cap.S.pag.  1 00. 
J?o«».4.y.par.2.cap.2.pag.222. 
-Rtfw  4.ip.20,pa.i.cap.3.pag.2p. 
i?o«».4.2i.par,i.cap.tf.pag.72.73. 
/?<'w.io.p.par.i.cap.6.pag.75. 
^<'w.io.iopar.i.ca.4.pag.5i.&par.2.ca.4,pag.25  2. 

a  2  Rom, 


^<'w.i3.i4pa>'.i.cap.4.pag'52. 

I  Or4  4  par.i.cap.S.pag.ioy. 

1  Co/-.io.2.par.i.cap.p.pag.i:p. 

I  Cor. 1 3 .a. par. i  .cap. j.pag.  1 6 .&  cap.4.pag  47.4S. 

I  C'<7r.i3.ia.par.i.cap.4.pag.42.43. 

1  C'(7r.ij.2.3,4par.i.cap.6.pag.7f. 

2  C«r.  10. 5. par. I. cap. ^.pag  16, 
^C*r.i3.j.par,i.cap.8,pag.ioo. 
Crf/.  j.6.par.  I  .cap,  4  pag.4 1 . 
Efh.  1.13  .par.  I  .cap.  ijpag.  S. 
-^^^.3.ii.par.i.cap.3.pag.30. 

2  77»w.i.5.par.2.cap.i.pag.ip4. 

^'^•?-5.par.2,cap.2.pag.2i3. 

Pffi/em.verf. 5  .par.  i  .cap.p.pag  130.    ' 

'g?^,4'2,par.i.cap.3.pag.37. 

•"tf^.ii.i.par.i.ca.3.pag.23.29.&par.2.a.i.p.2i4. 

/4w.2.i4.par. I  .cap  4  pag.5  3,&c, 

•'Ww.2.2o.22.par.i.cap  4.pag.44. 

/'*».2,26.par.i.cap.4  pag,43. 

I  /<'A.3.8.^.par.i.cap.8.pag.i  I  J. 

I  foh.  5 .  i.par. I .cap.4.pag.45. 

I  Mj5.i8.par.i.ca.8.pag.ii^, 


A 


TREATISE 

OF  FAITH. 


The  firji  Tart. 


CHAP.  I. 
Of  the  divers  acceptations  of  Faith, 

T  is  expedient  and  neceflary  that  all 
Chriftians  (liould  acquaint  them- 
felves  with  the  dp6lrine  of  Faith, 
becaufethe  lafetie  of  all  Chriftian 
Religion   doth   depend  upon  the 


right 


underftanding  of  this  mat- 


ter ,  and  Satan  with  his  fubtleties 
bath  ever  endevoured  to  obicurc 
this  dodrine  by  the  mifts  of  So- 
ph] foes,  or  to  weaken  it  ibme  other  wayes ,  that  he  might 
rob  God  of  his  glory ,  and  the  Church  of  the  certainty  of 
her  (alvation.  And  if  the  necedity  of  a  thing  knowne  and 
acknowledged  ftirre  up  to  enquire  into  it ,.  and  labour 

B  after 


§.r. 

Tht  necefsitit 
of  Faith. 


Divers  accfptathns  of  the  vord  Faiths 


Heb.ii 

.6. 

johnj. 
Rom.:? 

28. 

1  Cur.I 

.21. 

1  Cor. 

$0. 

}  4 

Aftsif,?. 
lRo:n  3.28. 
■  Eph. 1.13,14. 

§.  I. 

!Dk'crj  accep- 
taiisnt  of  the 
tPordFmtb. 
I. 

Mit.23   2j. 

Rom.  3. 3. 
Gal. 5.21. 
Titus  2.10. 

X 

Rom.ix.3.  8c 
14.1,22. 

3 
A&s  17-3 1* 

4 


!  after  it,this  alfo  may  provoke  us  to  fearch  and  enquire  what 

•  faich  is. 

I  Faith  is  of  the  number  of  thoTe  neceCTary  things  which 
are  neceflarily  required  to  the  obtaining  of  others ;  and 
not  of  thole  which  are  wrought  by  compulfion ,  or  by  any 
neceflary  caufe  compelling.  As  if  a  man  would  /ee,he  mull 
open  his  eyes,and  yet  he  is  not  by  externall  violence  forced 
thereunto,  i.  No  unbeleever  can  pleale  God  :  for  how 
fliould  he  who  is  incredulous  and  divided  from  God,pleafe 
him  wliO  is  moft  true  andfaithfull  ?  Salvation  is  in  the  plea- 
lure  and  power  of  God  ,  which  he  diipenceth  according  to ! 
his  own,  not  our  will.  But  he  accepteth  none  as  righteous 
to  life,  but  them  that  beleeve.  2.  The  quality  of  this  pre- 
fent  life  and  our  habitation,in  which  we  are  abfent  from  the 
Lordidoth  evidence  the  ncceffity  of  faith  :  asa  fonne  that 
lives  from  the  prc-^nce  of  his  Father  inuft  beleeve  his  let- 
ters and  meflengers  fent  unto  him.  3.  The  quality  of  things 
neceflary  to  be  knownefor  the  obtaining  of  falvation  is 
fuch,  that  they  cannot  be  apprehended  or  received  without 
it.  As  in  humane  things  the  quality  of  Arts  and  Sciences 
is  fuchjthat  they  require  underftandingjbecaufetliey  can- 
not be  conceived  vvithoutit :  fo  in  things  divine  faith  is  re- 
quiiite,  without  which  we  can  never  comprehend  the  my- 
lleries  of  falvation.  4.  The  gifts  which  God  beftovveth  up- 
on bis  children,  the  graces  which  the  KoIyGhoH:  doth 
worke  in  their  bearts,  doe  neceflarily  require  faith  by  the 
ordinance  and  determination  of  the  Lord' 

§.  2.  The  word  Faith  inScriprure  is  taken  diverffy, 

1 .  It  is  put  for  truth,  fidclitie  or  faithfulneflfe ,  conftancie 
and  juftice  in  word  and  adion,promife  or  accomplifhmenr. 

2.  By  faith  fbmetimes  trueChriftian  knowledge  andper- 
fvvafion,  or  the  meafiirc  thereof  is  to  be  underf^ood ,  fpcci- 
ally  the  found  knowledge  of  Chriftian  liberty  in  Jefiis 
Chrift.  3.  It  noteth  a  fure  teftimonie,orfirmc  dcmon^ra- 
tion  of  a  thing  to  come.  4.  It  fignifieth  the  doctrine  of  the 
GolpelJ,  and  S  Chrift  the  iubje^k  of  the  Scripture,  which 
preachcth  falvation,  to  be  no  ©therwifebut  by  faith  in 
^  Chrift: 


Sorts  of  Faith y&c. 


Chrift :  and  ib.is  Is  called  by  Divines.faith  which  is  bclce- 
ved.  5 .  It  is  taken  for  bclecfe  of  the  Golpel,  the  habit  be- 
ing implyed  in  the  a(?>,  the  gift  in  the  excrcifc :  which  is 
thefaith  whereby  we  beleeve.  And  this  isexprefled  by 
thephrafesof^r/r^t/*';?^  CJod,BeIcevingo»  Cjod,Beleeving 
on  Chrifly Beleev'mg  the  Prophets,  6,  Faith  i s  put  for  un - 
feigned  profeflion  ot  faith,joyned  with  fervent  delire  to  fur- 
ther ChriftianReIigion,and  agodlyhfc. 

^.  I*  Faith  Signifying beleefe  is  ufed  to  note,  i .  an  or- 
dinary knowledge  and  bare  afTent  to  the  hitloricall  truth 
of  Scripture,  grounded  upon  the  authority  and  truth  of  the 
Speaker »  though  ibmetimesholpcn  by  experiments,  and 
other  inducements  and  probabilities  of  the  thingstand  this 
is  called  faith  HilloricalJ,  that  is,  anaked,  impcrfc6V,dead 
aflent^wirhout  truft  or  confidence  in  the  mercies  of  God,or 
adherence  to  the  Commandements.  Howbeit  we  mufl  not 
imagine  that  faiih  is  reputed  unlbund,or  not  lalvificall,  be- 
caufe  hif^oricalJ  (rather  it  is  oftentimes  unliiflicicnt  to  (ave, 
beciufe  it  i%  not  lo  fully  hiftoricall  as  it  might  be )  but  the 
name  of  hifioricall  faith  arofe  hence ,  that  fomc  arefaid  to 
beleeve,  who  did  never  embrace  Chrift  as  their  onely  Savi- 
our with  all  their  hear^s,  nor  confidently  relie  upon  the 
promifes  of  mercy  :  otherwile  faith  jullifyingdoth  more 
certainly  beleeve  the  truth  of  the  hiftory  of  theGcfpel,and 
(bis  more  hirtoricall  than  thefaith  called  hiltoricall.  2. It  is 
taken  for  an  affiance  of  heart  embracing  the  Word  as  good ; 
which  in  refpeft  of  theobjed  may  be  diftinguifhcdintoMi- 
raculous  or  Ordinary.  For  the  objcd  rf  faith  is  either  Ibme 
jpecialland  fingularpromife,  and  that  both  for  the  doing 
of  fbme  extraordinary  cft'ed>whercin  we  truft  by  a  miracu- 
lous active  faith;  and  for  the  obtaining  offomefpirituall  or 
bodily  good  thing  after  an  extraordinary  manner ,  where- 
on we  truft  by  a  miraculous  palTive  faith,  as  it  is  called  :  or 
cKc  faith  doth  refped  the  generall  and  common  promifes, 
which  are  made  in  the  word  of  life,  and  madegood  to 
them  that  beleeve,  whereon  we  reft  by  faith  ordinary. 

But  faith  Miraculous  and  Ordinary  are  not  divers  gra- 
. B  2  CCS, 


^ 


Adi  6.7.  & 
GjI.i.ij.  & 

Gal. J.  t», 14. 

f 

John  f.  45,47. 

Jolm  1.22,  2J. 

Luke  14. If. 
Ads  26.27. 

6 
Rc^m.i  8. 
Gil  6,10. 
A5t$i4  %y.. 
Mu.9  t. 
I  ThclKi.j. 

Sorii  ofFiilh. 
J  am.  2. 1 9. 24, 
Ads  26.27. 
H'jtoricd  I 
Faith. 
I 


Faith  Miracu- 
lous. 
I  Cor.ij.j. 

MJt.2I.»I. 

Mirkc-9.2j. 
Ads  14-9. 
Luke  17*  19* 


f 

i-    .. 
\Z(tnchJere- 
\dempt  lib.i.e, 

ii.inprxc.i. 

Se{f,de  Fidc» 

Thef.t. 


Faith  terriporarie  and  juflifyif^f* 


Faith  Tempo- 
rary. 

Mat.  ij.aOjXi. 
Luke  8.  13,14 


Jufltfytn^ 
Faith. 
Luke  18  If. 
Mat  i^.ij. 
Afti  24  14. 
Afts  159. 
Pfal.119.6tf. 
Afts  17.15. 
Gal.j.*. 
Rom.4.3. 
Joiin  J.24. 
Ads  16.34.  & 
18  1. 

John  14.1. 
Rom.9.33. 


CCS,  but  the  fame  grace  exercifed  about  divers  objefts,  The 
grounds  of  faith  are  different,  and  lb  are  the  effeih  and 
adjundls  that  flow  from  thence:  but  the  grace  it  lelfe  one 
andtheiame.  As  the  Fathers  beleevedrpeciall  revelations 
and  extraordinary  promiics  made  to  them,  by  thefame  or- 
dinary faith  by  which  we  belceve  the  common  promifcs 
of  falvation  revealed  in  the  Word :  fo  the  fingular  pro- 
mifes  of  God  made  to  (6meBeleevers,concerning  the  wor- 
king of  miracles ,  were  embraced  by  the  (ame  faith  by 
which  they  did  adhere  to  the  general]  promifes  of  mercy, 
or  were  railed  up  to  the  doing  of  afts  of  love.  For  that 
faith  which  doth  receive  the  more  excellent  promifes  (as 
are  they  concerning  Ipirituall  life  and  falvation )  can  much 
more  lay  hold  uponoiher  promiies  of  an  inferiour  nature,  if, 
they  be  made  and  certified  unto  us. 

That  faith  which  is  carried  to  the  generall  promifes ,  is 
either  a  confidence  vanirhing,uncertaine,  not-rooced,  cal- 
led faith  temporary;  or  an  affiance  certaine,  well-planted, 
conftant,knovvnebythename  of  juftifying  orfaving  faith; 
fo  called  from  the  principall  eftedl.  For  to  jufiifie  is  not  the 
full  effect  of  this  confidence  or  affiance ,  beyond  which  the 
cfficiencieof  itdoth  not  extend:  but  becaufethis  is  the 
principall  thing  wherein  the  force  of  true  faith  is  occupied, 
it  is  16  called.    Juftifying  faith  belecveth  the  hiftory,puri- 
fieth  the  heart ,  fticketh  to  the  Commandements,  recci- 
vcth  the  temporall  promiies ,  vvorketh  by  love  :  but  it  is 
I  called  juftifying  from  the  principall  eft'ecl ,  as  thefoule  is 
(  called  reafonable  from  the  power  it  hath  to  invent,  judge, 
and  difcourle,  not  that  thefe  are  her  onely  faculties.  1  n  the 
Scriptures  of  the  New  Tcftament  this  faith  is  unfolded  in 
thefe  and  fuch  like  phrales,  To  heleeve  God^To  heleeve  in  or 
u^^n  God)  To  heleeve  in  or  upon  Jefus  Chrifl-  >  To  receive 
him-,  To  receive  the  teftimonie  of  Godj  To  heleeve  the  Go- 
!  ffel,To  receive  the  fFord  of  God. 
j     Tohelteue  God  fignifies  no  more  bat  toaffent  to  that 
which  the  Lord  fpeiketh :  but  helteving,  as  it  belongs  to 
ltheiindcrftanding,is  the  root  and  foundation  from  which 
\  confidence 


Not  thehabn^  but  iheaU  of  Faith  required. 


confidence  of  the  heart  doth  Tpring  and  flow  :  and  fuch  a 
beleefein  the  mind  is  fignificd  in  this  and  all  other  phrafcs, 
as  is  alvvayes  necelfarily  accompanied  with  truding  in 
God,  for  that  which  weebcleeve  heecanand  will  bring  to 
pafle.  And  the  other  oftrufting  to,  or  relying  upon  is  im- 
plyed ,  whcnlbever  wee  find  that  afcribed  to  helccving 
which  cannot  be  obtained  without  faith  in  Chrift.  And  if 
weefearch  the  Scriptures,  wee  fliall  findthefe  phrales.  To 

-.R«m.4  ?.w;th  Rom.4.^a:^Rom.To  lo.n.Jr.h.?.    belceVCaGod.and  tO 

jo^jiAa i9-^,joh.i II. Aa.i5.j4. with  ji. Mark,  bclecvc  It)  Godj  to 

1.15.  Gen.iy.5.  withRom.4.3.    6  F.xod.i4-3i- an.4    irrtn^rt-  t^na  ^«J  ►U^ 

X9.9.  r.uk..4-i5joh.'..'-j  cjoh.,.j5.j8.  En,y  impott  One  and  the 
28.16.  with  Rom.y.}3.  fame  thing.  A  prepo- 

The  i/(ir«v  prepulicion  a  Tervcth  of;cn,timr$  to     (^tion  ^  IS  added  tO 
note  the  accHfative  cafe,  and  is  ufcd  or  omitted    1     1  1 

w;thoutanydifllrcnce,Deut.7.6,7i  Sa1n14.j7.tfa.    tJCJeevC  ,    When  nO- 

j3.15.job24.11.Deut.1M6.  Pui.io6ii,i..  Eiiy   thing  but  a  (Tent  of 

4J.10.  TheSeventic  tranHate  thepartiJc5/;>mc-  •    j     ■      r       -c    j 

timcsbyJr,Jerem.ii.^.iChro,.2Lo.Pfai:78.3i.  "^"?^.    ^^    ^mfied  ; 

ordinarily  bv 017.    ffal.4.<<.  ani  11.4.5  and  15  i-  &  it  is  pUt  without 

and}7J.  Pfal. 118.8,9.  and  145.}.  Sometimes  thty  ^  ct^rf^nr^Cr'.f^n  ,n,U^,^ 

omit  it  Altogether,  Exod.i4.;i.  and  ,9.9.  Pfal.io/.  ^  T^^^POllt'On  When 

II.  Gen  i5.tf.andfomctimcsth;yaddctheprepoli-  truft Or  confidence is 

tion  o^,  where  the  //f4r-wbath  no  particle,  E(ay  .'—.^i.'^J  A\/f     «-. 

t^.x6.  in  Che  New  Teftament,  u,  Jd  h  are  often  impllcd-dMoreOVer, 

put  interchangeably  one  fur  another.  Mark-i  9.  &  WCC  rCad  fometimes 

II.  Mat  II. I.  Mar.i.iJ.  Luk.23.42.  Rom  5.  ii.  ^A.  r^.vA    „/" /^Z.      a 

Gal  5.r%  PhUj  3.  t  Tim.j  ir..  EphcCf.,.,.    And  '^^  /^''^^   ''^  6  ^''{/?> 

theHeathfn  greeJ^  ufe  bfottit,  as  Xemfhtn,  ih-  dr  faith  which  is  by 

Christ:  lometimes 
faith  on  Chrfsi;znd(omeumcs faith  in  Chrifi:  which  fevc- 
rall  formes  of  fpeech  note  much  the  fame  thing,  but  that  (as 
feme  learned  menoblerve)  thefirft  maybe  conceived,  as 
propounding  Chrifi  the  fimple  or  jed^  of  faith:  The  lecond 
phrafe,  Chrift  the  Obje<ft,  together  with  our  adhering  to 
him:  The  third  notcth  Chrift  theobjedl:,  our  inhering  in 
him,  together  with  the  word  pro^x>unded  as  the  way  and 
meane,  by  which  we  come  beleevingly  to  inhere  in  him. 

§.  ^  But  evermore  when  faith  is  required,  it  is  not  the 
facultie,  whereby  we  are  apt,  andfurnifhed  tobeleev?,  but 
the  ac>  and  exercife  of  that  habit,  whereby  we  execute  the 
fundlionof  beleeving,  whichis  tobeunderftood.  Forth-s 
is  that  which  God  commandeth  in  the  Scriptures,  net  that 

B   ?  opr 


Af  5  I(?.JT. 

l-jh.i.Tr.Sf  j.tf. 
J  jb.i.ii.&  3.53. 
.Mark.i.tJ. 
A&it.i.  & 


i.  I. 
I  Ccr.j 


H- 


d  Rom.3.i2,t*. 
Ads  3.i«- 
Gal.2.i(f. 
Pliil.j.i^ 
I  Pet.i.ii. 
Ai:>s  24.14. 
Co'. 1.5. 
Gal.3.»/f. 
Epher.1.15. 
'Bajne'm^  he'". 
Ki).  Doa.:. 


I^t  the  habit, 
tut  the  a(l  of 
taith  is  required. 


f    X- 


h'hatjufiifytng  Faith  U, 


J  Cl)ron.io,8  0. 
Mark  1^.13. 

Jofi.I.T;.   6(141. 

Joli.j.iiJ. 


ASi  8.37. 
Rom.i.ief. 
iJoli;3.33. 

Ephcl  a.S. 


Afts  11S.31. 
Gal.2.T5. 
A&13  35.  8e 
1043. 


Rom. 4-3. 


Numb. 14. II. 

Deut9.2j. 

Pfar.ya.it.ii. 

Luk.1.45. 
Joh.20.29. 
Rom?. 35- 


§.T. 

What,  juftifying 
Faith  iSi 


ourlbuIeS  be  adorned.with  the  habit  of  faith,  though  that 
be  neceflarie,  but  that  wee  bcleeve  in  him.  BeUeve  in  the 
Lord y our  ^od.  RepeKtyeeandbeieevetheGejfel.  J f  thou 
canfi  helecve^  all  things  are  fojjibleto  himthat  beleeveth. 
But/ts  wany  asreceiiiedhim^  to  them  hee  gave  right  to  he- 
come  the  fans  of  God;  even  to  them  that  beleeve  on  hu 
Name.  Tee  beleeve  in  God^heleeve alfo  in  mte.  Hee that 
Beleeveth  on  him  is  not  condemned.  If  thou  beletveit  -with 
aUthine  heart ythoH  mayefi.  The  Gojfelts  thepowerofGod 
ttnto  falvation)  to  everie  one  that  beleeveth.  This  is  his 
Commandeme-fit  thattvefhoHld  beleeve  onthe  name  of  his 
fon  Jefus  Chrifi.  fVe  are  faved  by  faith, \^^\[  one  with  that, 
Beleeve  on  the  Lord  fefm  Chrifi,  andthoufhalt  be  faved. 
fVe  are  jujlified  by  faith,\5  all  one  with  th^i^Bj  him  all  that 
beleeve  are  jufitfied  from  aU  things-,  from  which  yee  could 
not  be  juflified  by  the  Lave  of  Mofes .  fVhojoever  beUeveth 
inhim  fha.ll  receive  remiffion  of  fins.  P^v^h^m'beleeved 
(jod-,  and  it  rvas  imputed  to  him  for  righteoufneffe.  And 
therefore  the  Jfraelites^xo.  reprehendedjthar  they  beleeved 
notin  the  Lorcf :  A  f^e  was  kindled,  againU  Jicohyand  an- 
ger alfo  cam^  up  againft  Ifrael:  Becaufe  they  beleeved  not 
in  Godi  andtrujled  not  inhis  falvation.  None  but  thof? 
beJeevers  are  praifed  ;  Blejfed  is  (he  that  beleeved.  Becaufe 
thouhaTt  feenemee-)  thou  hafl  beleeved'-,  blejfed  are  they 
which  have  not  fee  ne-,  and  yet  have  beleeved.  Whofoever 
beleeveth  on  him,  fhallnot  be  afhamed. 


CHAP.    II. 
Of  the  Author  and  worker  ofFaithjujlifying. 


§.  I 


TUftifying  faith ,  which  not  onely  beleeveth  God 
(peaking  in  his  Word  ,  but  embraceth  all  divine 
truth  as  containing  the  chiefe  good  of  man,  as  being  the 
moftperfe6^,  doth  neceffarily  require  before  it  faith  hifto- 
ricall,  and  comprehend  all  other  kinds  under  it.  It  may  be 

defined, 


God  is  the  yJuthor  of  Fatth. 


defined,  a  lively  and  obediential!  affiance  or  confidence, 
whereby  wee  reft  npon  Chrift  for  fa Ivation,  receive  the 
promiles  of  grace  temporall  and  Ipiritnall ,  ftick  to  the 
Commandemcnts  as  good  both  fimply  and  in  comparilbn, 
and  feed  upon  the  word  with  favour  and  delight.  More 
largely.  It  is  a  wondcrfnll  andfiipernaturali  gift  of  gracej 
wrought  by  the  Holy  Ghoft,  through  the  minifterie  of  the 
Golpel,inthe  heart  of  man  a  finnerjacknowledging  and  be- 
wailing his  offences,  whereby  hce  doth  not  onely  afl'ent  to 
the  whole  truth  of  God,  and  is  certainly  pcrflvaded  that  Je- 
fus  Chrift  is  appointed  of  God  to  be  the  Author  of  falvation 
tothemthatbeleeveinhim,  and  his  Saviour  if  hec  doebe- 
Iceve :  but  doth  relye,  caft,  and  repofc  his  fbule  upon  Chrift 
his  Saviour,and  by  him  upon  God  as  a  loving  Father  in  him, 
cleaving  infeparably  to  the  Word  of  truth,  as  good  both 
fimply  and  in  comparilbn,  and  feeding  upon  it  as  thewhol- 
fcme  food  of  life. 

§.  2.  God  theFather,  in  his  Sonne  Jefiis  Chrift  onr  Me-! 
diatour  by  the  Holy  Ghoft,  is  the  Authourand  worker  of 
Faith,  As  falvation,  fb  faith  is  the  gift  of  God.  It  is  through 
grace  that  men  beleevc.  Mo  man  can  come  unto  mee^  ex' 
cept  the  Father  which  hath  fent  mee,  draw  htm.  Everie 
good  thing  comes  from  the  Father  of  lights :  but  faith  is  a 
giftaftera  i'peciali  manner,  moft  free,  and  profitable,  com- 
ming  from  the  grace  of  the  Donor,  beftowed  upon  us  when 
wee  are  everie  way  unworthy.  It  is  fnch  a  gift  as  comes 
not  from  common  bountie,  fuchas  God  made  fhew  of  in 
the  creation:  but  from  a  fpecia  11  favour,  which  heebeareth 
his  in  Chrift  Jefus.  The  Scripture  is  cleare  and  evident 
herein,&  fkongreafons  may  be  deduced  thence  to  prove  it. 
For  of  our  (elves  wee  have  no  power  to  beleeve,  or  to  pre- 
pare our  ielves  thereunto.  There  is  no  fuch  Icile  in  our 
hearts ,  whence  fuch  fruit  fliould  fpring.  The  meanes  of 
grace,  and  the  operation  of  the  Spirit  accompanying  it,  are 
free  and  voluntarie.  No  man  can  beleeve,  unlefTe  he  be  cre- 
ated and  formed  anew :  but  regeneration  is  a  free  work  of 
Gods  grace  and  mercic. 

B  4  Faith 


^  §.  t. 

God  !>.  the  Au- 
thor of  Faith. 
Ephefi  8. 
Phil. 1.29. 
Ads  11^.17. 
h.644. 


I 


I-^- 


Fattb  U  imperfeBj  though  a  worke  of  the  Hpnt* 


Hcb.i2.i. 


3  Cor.^.i?. 

Hum. 15. 15. 
How  fie  are  [aid 
tOTCc-iv:the  Hoi) 
^hoft  by  faith. 
£pher.r.ij. 


'Horv  the  Spirit  it 
vhtainedby  payer. 
LuLii.ij. 


§.  5- 

Faith  u  imperfeB, 
tkoKgh  arrdr^  of 
the  Spirit. 


Faith  is  the  worke  of  God  the  Father  in  Jefus  Chrift. 
For  as  the  naturall  head  doth  not  onely  givefenfe  and  mo- 
tion to  all  the  members  now  conjoyned ,  but  doth  fend 
forth  chofe  bands,  whereby  they  come  to  bee  coupled  with 
it:  To  Chrift  doth  not  onely  give  fpirituallfenfe  and  motion 
to  his  members  already  united  unco  him  by  faith,  but  hee 
is  the  fpring  whence  this  finew  of  faith  doth  flow  and  ifiTue 
unto  us. 

The  Spirit  of  God  is  the  principal!  worker  of  faith :  and 
hence  we  are  (aid  to  receive  the  Spirit  of  faith,  that  is,  the 
HolyGhoft,  in  and  through  this  gift  of  faith,  which  hec 
worketh  and  continuethin  us.  By  faith  we  receive  the  Ho- 
ly Ghofl-:  and  faith  is  the  worke  of  the  Holy  Ghoft.  The 
a<i>ion  of  the  Holy  Ghoft  creating  faith  in  us,  is  before 
faith:  But  the  beginning  of  faith  is  the  receiving  of  the 
Holy  GhoR  ;  and  faith  being  begun,  the  gifts  of  thelpirit 
are  more  and  moreincreafedbyir.  Faith  it  felfc  is  a  worke 
of  the  fpirit:  but  an  augmentation  of  thegraces  of  thefpi- 
ritisobtained  by  faith  ;  and  the  more  our  faith  dilateth  it 
felfe,  the  more  plentifully  doe  the  graces  of  thelpirit,  flow 
into  us  from  Chrift;  Of  rehofe  fulnefje  wee  receive  grace 
for  grace..  Faith  doth  obtair.e  the  Holy  Ghoft  by  prayer  : 
and  prayer  fs  an  aft  of  grace  and  of  the  Spirit,  as  faith 
is  a  work  of  the  Spirit.  Before  wee  can  lift  upourfbules 
unto  God,  the  Holy  Ghoft  muft  defcend  into  us,  and 
lift  US  up:  for  wee  move  not,  but  as  wee  are  moved. 
The  Holy  Ghoft  is  given  to  the  Eieft  before  they 
aske:  but  a  greatei  meafure  of  the  Spirit  is  obtained  by 
prayer. 

§.  ^.  Faith  is  not  alike  in  all,  in  none  perfcft,  though  it 
be  the  worke  of  the  Spirit :  for  the  Spirit  v\orketh  faith, 
not  as  a  naturall  agent,  which  |:»utteth  forth  its  power  to 
theutrermoft,  andalwayes  producechIikeeflFe(5is,  if  it  be 
not  hindered :  but  as  a  voluntarie  agent,  which  putteth  not 
forth  his  power  to  the  utmoft,  worketh  according  to  his 
pleafureinwhom  hee  will,  and  as  hee  will^  but  not  in  all 

alike. 

The 


Faith  u  tmperfeBj  though  a  rvorke  of  the  Spint' 


The  Spirit  worketh  faith  not  by  morall  perfwafion, 
onely  inciting  tobeleeve,  and  leaving  it  to  our  free 
choyce,  whether  wee  will  alTent  or  no:  but  by  his 
powerfull  operation ,  and  omnipotent  hand  put  forth 
for  fixh  a  purpofe ,  hee  produceth  this  gracious  effecl:. 
There  are  no  leeds  of  faith  in  our  nature,  out  of  which 
by  meere  outward  teaching  wee  may  bee  brought 
to  beleeve :  for  then  fliould  faith  bee  naturall ,  as  all 
other  things  are,  which  our  nature  can  attaine  to 
with  outward  helps.  There  is  no  fpirituall  life  in  us 
before  the  infufion  of  grace ,  whereby  wee  fliould  bee 
able  to  embrace  the  perlwahons  of  the  Spirit:  for  then 
wee  fliould  live  fpiritually  of  our  felves  before  wee 
arc  quickened  by  grace.  If  the  Spirit  of  God  doe  onely 
move  and  perfvade  to  beleeve,  then  God  doth  not 
make  the  beleever  to  difter  from  the  unbeleever ,  but 
the  good  ufe  of  his  owne  free  will.  It  is  of  grace  that 
man  might  beleeve ,  and  fo  might  hee  that  continueth 
in  infidelitie,  for  hee  received  equall  aid?  and  was  e- 
qually  perKvaded  and  incited  by  the  Spirit.  But  if  the 
queftion  bee,  why  doth  the  one  beleeve  and  not  the 
other  ?  it  is  not  the  Spirit  here  that  makes  the  difference, 
but  the  good  ufeof  mans  free-will:  and  lb,  that  manisina- 
bled  to  beleeve,  it  fliould  be  of  grace;  but  that  he  doth  be- 
leeve, and  fo  differ  from  other  men,  this  fliould  bee  from 
himfelfe.  ^^Theiame  power  that  raifed  Chrifl:  from  the  dead, 
is  faid  to  raife  us  up  to  beleeve.  If  an  hand  or  eye  bee  wan- 
ting to  a  man  from  his  birth,  can  any  power  rettore  them, 
but  the  Almightie  power  of  God,  by  which  the  body 
was  at  firfl  framed  and  fafliioned?  By  what  power  then  is 
this  hand  of  faith  created,  which  reacheth  to  heaven  ?  this 
eye  which  doth  fee  the  things  within  the  vaile,  which 
concerne  our  peace?  ^  This  further  anpeareth  by  the  caufe 
that  movcth  the  Lord  to  beftow  faith  upon  fome,  which 
ishisfree,  eternall,  unchangeable  grace  and  iovej  whereby 
hee  loved  them  tobc  made  he'res  of  falvation,  before  the 
foundation  of  the  earth  was  hid.    For  fo  farre  as  God 

cffeflually 


Fdith  u  tptwer- 


3  Ephefi  153 10. 
Coll. II. 
r  Thcfl'.i.^. 

1  Pct.i.y.  ' 

2  PfM.1,2,-. 
1  Th  fr..'.n. 
2. Tim  1.7. 
;  Cor.ij.4. 

-'^<as  13.48. 

I'h'J.i.ij,, 
Matth.ii.af:. 


1-^- 


o 


§.4. 

How  (Jo.l  pro- 
ducethfaich. 


2  Cor.4.rf. 
.Tim  1.9. 


Horv  GoUproo/uceth  Fazih, 


efe>ually  willethandintendethcowork,  16  farheputceth 
forth  his  Omnipotent  power  to  accorrplifh.  But  G(kJ  doth 
intend,  and  effedl:ually  will  to  draw  Ibme  unto  him  before 
other  (bme. 

§.  4.  In  producing  faith,  firfl:  God  beftoweth  upon  man 
the  gift  of  underrtanding  and  (pirituallwildome,  opening 
and  illuminating  the  eyes  of  his  mind,  to  know  the  pro- 
mile  in  Chrift,  and  to  judge  and  cfteeme  thofe  things  revea- 
led of  God,  to  be  the  moll  undoubted  and  infallible  truth. 
Thisunderftandingisrequifitetofaich :  foritis  impoffible 
for  a  man  to  beleeve  that,  whereof  he  hath  no  knowledge  or 
underftanding.  Out  of  queftion,faith  is  a  moft  wife  gift, or 
grace  of  Gods  holy  Spirit,  making  thofe  that  bee  endued 
therewith  wife  untofalvation :  which  wee  fliall  eafijy  di(- 
ceme,  ii^  we  conflder  how  great  the  fubtiltie  of  that  old  Ser- 
pent the  Devill  is,  as  alio  the  dcceittulneflc  of  finne  j  both 
which  are  defeated  by  faith. 

This  underftanding  is  the  gift  of  Gods  grace ;  for  as  rea- 
ibnable  underftanding  is  beyond  the  compaffe  of  that 
knowledge  which  the  beafts  have  by  kind :  fo  is  this  under- 
ftanding far  beyond  the  reach  of  all  that  wildomc  left  in  cor- 
rupted nature.  It  is  a  work  irrefiftible,  for  it  is  wrought  ac- 
cording to  the  purpofe  of  the  Lord,  and  the  counfcll  of  God 
cannot  be  fruflrated.  In  illumination  the  mind  fuffercth 
not  from  any  natura  11  power,  which  it  hath  to  conceive  or 
underftand  fpirituall  things,  but  from  that  ftatc  of  obedi- 
ence that  the  mind  ftandeth  in  unto  Almighty  God,  where- 
by it  muft  neceflarily  fee  whatlbever  he  will  enlighten  it  to 
behold,  andfet  before  it.  There  is  no  natural!  power  in  an 
eye  now  blind  to  receive  fight :  but  if  God  will  enlighten, 
it  muft  needs  fee :  So  there  is  no  natural!  power  in  the  eye 
ofthe  mind  now  become  darknefte,  to  receive  the  light  of 
favingknowledge,which  is  everie  way  a  thinj;both  for  mat- 
ter and  manner  fupernaturall  unto  it :  but  if  hce  open  the 
eyes  of  the  underftanding,and  ftiine  into  the  hcart,it  muft 
needs  underftand. 

Secondly,  God  doth  infufe  orpowre  the  habit  of  faith 


3. 


into 


if 


Faith  u  the  gift  of  Cod^  and  a  i\  of  Man , 


II 


Er>hff.T  18. 
Luk. 1^.45. 

Joh.6.44. 

Efay  5<-.). 


I  Cor.r.T4. 
Rom.j.>. 


into  man,  whereby  hee  girethtovs'ill  to  come  unto  Chrift, 
and  to  enjoy  him.  TZiehd^  worke  of  God  is  Fgnihcd  m 
Scripture,  by  openhg  the  eyes  of  the  UKderfiandiyig :  the  Ic- 
cond  by  Gods  drawing  m  :  both,  at  leaft  figuratively,  by 
tl:e  epetfiKf  of  the  earcy  the  o^eytr/ig  of  the  hearty  the  taMiyjg 
Away  theh^artoffione,  a>:d  givtrganheartof  fl^fh.  This 
fecondworkis  requifite  to  faith  ;  for  as  a  dead  man  can  doe 
;ioai'tofiifeuntiil  a  living  fouie  bebreached  into  him;  nc«: 
a  blind  tye  ree,un!efl"e  new  light  be  given  unto  it :  no  more 
can  man,  dead  in  trdpafles  and  iinncs.move  himreifc  to  re- 
cei\ae  the  promifes  of  grace,  untiil  the  free  and  gracious 
diipofition,  or  habit  oi  faith  be  infufed,  whereby  the  will 
is  inclined  agreeably  to  thedifpofitionof  it,  tocomcun- 
toGod.  As  man  cannot  naturally  fee  or  perceive  the  things 
of  God ;  no  more  can  hee  naturally  will  or  defire  them. 
And  this  is  apparent  by  the  hardnefle  of  mans  heart  that 
cannot  repent,tillGodmolliheit;  and  by  hisfliffc-necked- 
nefle  and  (^ubbornne0e  to  refill  the  Holy  Spirit  fpeaking  in 
the  minifleric  of  the  Word,  until]  hee  bee  renewed  and 
changed  by  grace. 

This  habit  of  faith  is  received,  not  by  any  natural!  difpo- 
fitionofwillin  us  to  heavenly  things,  for  then  man  fhould 
live  Ipiritually  ofhimlclfe,  before  the  life  of  grace  beput  in- 
to him:  but  the  heart,  as  it  ftands  in  obedience  to  Gods 
Almightie  power,  to  take  what  ftamp  hee  fhall  imprint,  to 
follow  him  whither  he  fhall  draw,  and  to  concaine  what  hee 
powreth  into  it,  admitteth  this  habit. 

And  as  the  beginning,  fotheincreafeandprogrefle,  the 
confummation  and  perfr6Hon  of  faith  is  the  gift  of  God, 
the  work  of  the  Spirit.  Of  God  theincreafe  oftaith  is  to  be 
asked,  and  from  him  it  is  received.  As  wee  cannot  will  to 
bcleevc,  unlefle  God  prepare  the  heart  and  give  that  will ; 
no  more  can  wee  wiJlto  perfevere  in  faith,  or  goe  forward 
therein,  unlefle  Goddoeminifterflren^th,  and  fuflaineus 
by  his  grace. 

§.  5.  Faith  then  is  the  gift  of  God,  and  the  a6l  of  man : 
a  wonderfull  and  (upernaturall  gift  of  God,  and  a  Lively 

motion  i 


Tfieincrcafeof 
faith  isof  God' 
Heb  ii.a. 
Luk.17.5. 
Mark  9-24. 
Plrl.i.fi. 
iThctl. 1.3^11. 


§.  y. 

Faith  is  ttie  gift 
of0od,andtlje 
a^ofMan* 


12 


Fajth  wreught  by  the  fvord* 


Hab.2.4. 


Faith  WTBHgbt  bj 
the  Wold. 


motion  of  the  heart  renewed  by  grace ,  and  powerfully 
movedby  theSpirit.  The  power  to bcleeve,  andvvilltonie 
that  power,  is  of  God :  But  the  z&.  of  the  will  in  rerting  up- 
on Chrilt  is  mans.lt  is  man  that  beleeveih,but  it  is  God  on- 
ly and  altogether  that  inableth,ftirreth  up,  putteth  forward, 
and  endineth  the  heart  tobelecve.  By  Gods  enlightening 
man  reeth,by  bis  teaching  he  under  (lands :  and  the  Lord  in- 
clining his  will,  hec  willeth,  embraceth,  poflefleth  and  kee- 
peth  Chrift  with  all  bleflTings  promifed  in  him.  So  that 
faith  is  the  motion  of  mans  heart  wrought  in  him  by  the 
Spirit  of  God.  Even  as  a  whecle,  which  of  it  fclfe  can- 
not move ,  yet  being  moved  of  another ,  doth  move ; 
whofe  motion  though  but  one,  isfaidtobethe  motion  of 
the  mover,  and  of  the  thing  moved ;  fo  faith  is  nothing  but 
the  a6lion  of  God  in  man,  but  confidered  in  a  diverfe  man- 
ner it  is  both  the  a6l  of  God  and  man :  as  wrought  by  God 
in  man,  it  is  the  work  of  the  Lord ;  as  the  motion  of  man, 
his  heart  being  moved  of  God,  it  is  the  a6l  of  man.  For  the 
a(5tionof  manin  beleeving  with  the  heart,  is  nothing  but 
his  knowing  and  acknowledging  of  things,  by  Gods  ma- 
king him  know  and  acknowledge  them ;  his  apprehending, 
,  wiliing,chufing,  embracing,  and  retaining  them,  by  Gods 
making  him  ta apprehend,  will,  chufe,  embrace  and  retaine 
them* 

It  is  true,  that  wee  beleeve,  becaufe  wee  will  Beleeve; 
but,  we  will  beleeve,  doth  note  not  the  principal!  caufe,  but 
a  caufe  fubordinate,  working  by  way  of  free  di(pofition, 
which  dilpofition  it  receiveth  from  an  higher  caufe,  not 
|fromnaturalIftrength.  ThejuTt  is  (aid  to  lively  his  orpne 
faithy  and  faith  15  called  ours,  or  our  evtrie ,  not  that  we  are 
the  Authours,caufe,or  workers  of  it,  but  becaule  wecpofl 
feiTe  it,  and  are  the  fpeciallfubje6ts  in  which  it  is  wrought 
by  God ;  and  al(b becaufe  it  concernes  our  felvss  in  particu- 
lar, and  what  we  beleeve  we  beleeve  it  particularly  concer- 
ning our  felves. 

§.  6.  Not  to  difpute  whether  God  doth  extraordinari- 
ly worke  faith  in  the  hearts  of  men,  without  tlie  exter- 
nal! 


fi'hy  all  bfUeve  n9t  that  hfare  the  tVord, 

nallpublifliingof  his  word,  wiII,or  plcafurc:  this  \s  fiire, 
that  ordinarily  the  Holy  Ghoft  dothworke  by  the  Mjni- 
ftery  of  the  Word.  1  he  Word  can  doe  nothing  without 
Gods  Spirit:  and  ordinarily  the  Spirit  will  doc  nothing 
without  the  Word.  Faith  js  cz\\tdi't\t  fruit  of  the  lips: 
the  Word  is  both  the  meane  whereby  we  beleeve ,  and  the 
fubjef^  matter  ofour  beleefe. A  man  may  fee  without  light 
or  colour,  heare  without  eare or  Ibund,  aspolhbiyas  be- 
leeve without  the  Word  of  God.  For  when  faith  is  an 
affiance  or  periwaficn,  touching  the  good  will  of  God 
towards  us  in  Jcfus  Chrift ,  how  can  we  be  perfwaded  tou- 
ching his  gracious  pleaf  ire,  till  webe.icquaintedwith  his 
word,  whereby  he  hath  declared  \z  ?  How  can  I  beleeve  or 
certainly  know  that  a  friend  will  doe  me  this  or  that  good 
/  turne,  unlefle  I  have  his  word  or  promiie  to  that  effe6^  ? 
No  more  could  we  ever  know  or  be  perfvvaded  that  God 
would  forgive  our  finnes  ,  or  fliew  mercy  upon  us,  fhould 
he  not  byhis  Wordflgnifie  and  make  knovvne  the  fame. 
The  Word  is  the  iVord  of  faith,  propounding  things  to  be 
belceved ,  and  commanding  us  to  beleeve.  The  Gofpel  is 
the  word  of  the  kjngdome^the  forcer  ofGodtofalvation^the 
arme  of  God. 

Faith  is  the  mother  of  Prayer  :  Prayeramcanesof  the 
increaic  and  coniervarion  of  Faith.The Sacraments  do  con- 
firme,confcrvejand  encreale  faith  bq^un :  but  the  Wrrd  on- 
Jy  is  the  inflrument  to  beget  faith.  Two  things  are  here  to 
be  looked  unto:  Firft,that  we  fever  not  vv^at  Cjod  hath 
jOyred  together.  Secondly  that  we  attribute  not  to  the  in- 
ftrument  what  is  proper  to  the  Authonr.  For  the  Word 
bytheOrdinanceof  God  is  appointed  to  reprefent  to  our 
minds  what  it  is  ordained  tofignifie,  and  by  it  as  an  in- 
ftrument  it  pleafeth  God  ro  worke:  but  the  whole  force, 
efficacie,and  power  doth  flow  tTomGod,and  he  that  created 
man  at  the  firft,is  his  rcftorer  talife  ct email. 

If  it  be  demanded,  why  doe  nor  all  he!eeve  that  heare 
the  Word  ?  The  anfwcr  is ,  Mans  wilfulncfTe  is  the  fiinda- 
mentall,radicall,  prime  caufe  of  obftinate  unbeleefe ;  and 

he 


13 


Efjy  j7.  ip. 


Rom  10.8, 
John  11^6. 
M.rkc  I  15, 
Rom.  1. 16. 

Iricrc'ijtd  by 
PmycT  arid  the 
u/eofthc  Sa- 
(ra./icnts. 


Mirke  1*20, 
1  Cor.i  1  6. 

Hrhy  nil  do  not 
beleeve  ihit 
hear  the  IVord, , 


H 


Though  faith 
tetbepft  of 
God,  men  mufl 
ufcihe  meant f 
to  obtaim  it. 


Faith  is  Gods  gift  ^hut  me  muf.  ufethemennsforiu 

hebelecvechnot  becaiife  he  will  not  beleeve;  which  di- 
fpofitionthewillhathof  it  I'elfe  by  nature.  But  the  realbn 
why  one  beleevech  and  not  another,  is,  becaufe  the  Holy 
Ghortdoth  not  inwardly  teach  all  men,  but  whom  hce 
will,  and  joynehiscflicacie  to  the  Word  preached  and 
■heard  in  whom  he  will.  Thecaufeof  this  his  will  wee  arc 
not  bound  to  render,  we  cannot  render,  but  muft  reft  in  the 
good  pleafure  of  God. 

And  though  no  man  doebeleeveby  the  extornall  hearing 
of  the  Word,  unlerte  the  inward  operation  of  the  Holy 
Ghoft  regenerating  and  giving  faith  doe  accompany  ir,  yet 
muft  all  men  give  attendance  to  the  hearing  of  the  Word 
preached,  and  diligent  reading ,  becaufe  itisthemcanes 
thatGodhathordainedfor  the  begetting  of  faith ,  and  by 
precept  divine  they  are  thereunto  obliged.  Neither  (liall 
it  excufe  any  man  to  fay ,  he  could  not  beleeve ;  and  if  he 
fhouldmaketriall,  hiscndevourwouldbein  vaine.  Such 
frivolous  pretences  fhall  nothing  availe  before  God.  The 
I  lefle  able  we  are  to  beleeve  of  our  felves,  the  more  carcfull 
fliouldwebe  toufe  themeanes  that  God  hath  ordained, 
that  we  might  obtaine  it.  Marriage  was  never  held  fupertiu- 
I  ous  or  unneceflary  for  the  propagation  of  mankindjbecaufe 
I  the  reafonablefouleisnot  generated  by  our  Parents,  but 
immediately  created  and  inftifedof  God  .That  faith  is  the 
fole  gift  of  God,  wholly  infufed,  not  partly  acquired  by  us, 
(hou Id  rather  incite  than  any  way  abate  our  endevours 
-for  attaining  it.  For  faith  is  not  given  but  in  the  ufe  of  the 
meanes :  and  though  he  give  not  faith  unto  all  men,  he  vio- 
lently with-holds  faith  from  no  man  that  feeketh  it,  buc 
denieth  it  juftlv  to  them  that  willingly  prefer  the  pleafures 
of  fin  before  tnc  pearle  cf  the  Gofpcl.    And  as  Chrift  in- 
fufed not  humane  life  inro  trees ,  ftockes,  and  ftones ,  but 
into  bodies  pafTively  organized  and  figured  for  the  fit  ha- 
bitation of  the  humane  ibule ;  (o  neither  doth  he  ordina- 
rilybertow  fupernaturall  grace  on  everyone  that  hath  a 
re  afonable  Ibule ,  butonfuch  onely  as  arc  by  him  paflively 
prepared  for  it. 

The 


Faith  prefupfofeth  knorplfdgi 


Thcconclufionis,  thatwemuft  vvaite  daily  at  the  pofts 
ofwifedomesgate,  meditate  rerioufiynpon  the  word  of 
life,  and  nounfli  the  motions  of  Gods  Spirit,  as  the  means 
whereby  faith  is  begun  and  encreafcd  in  us. 


15 


CHAP.  III. 

^f  J '*I^ 'fj ''^^^  F^i'th^what  it  is, and  what  thinge 

are  implied  therein. 

ki    TUftifyfng  faith  prcfupfofcth  the  knowledge  of 
I  God  and  Chrirt,  of  the  precepts  ofthe  Word>  and 
promifcs cf  the  Gofpil.  Knowledge  is  an  antecedent,  if 
not  a  part  of  faith.  Knowledge,  I  (ay,  not  of  thereafon 
and  nature  ofthe  things,  but  of  revelation  which  reftsin 
the  meaning  ofthe  telTrmony  diftinflly  underftood.  The 
things  which  God  commandeth  us  to  beleeve  exceed  aU 
natuiall  capacity ,  cannot  bee  known*  in  their  eflence  and 
properties,  as  things  natural!  are  by  the  light  of  rcafon:  j 
But  every  beleevermuft  know  it  to  bee  the  Word  of  God  j 
which  he  receiveth ,  and  what  is  fignified  thereby,and  the 
things  tobee  as  they  are  revealed,  though  he  cannot  com- 
prehend the  reafon  or  caufes  of  them.  Knowledge  is  put 
for  faith,  as  that  which  ever  accompaniethit.  When  God 
cnricheth  men  with  faith,  heeisfaid  to  open  their  eyes  jo 
reveale  unto  them  the  my  fiery  of  his  n'/7/,  and  they  are  faid  [ 
to  be  taught  and  infirnHed  of  him.  Out  of  queft  ion,faith  is  ! 
a  mort  wife  grace,  making  them  that  bee  endued  therewith  j 
wife  unto  lalvarion  ,   and  that  evident  to  the  beleevcr  1 
which  of  it  felfe  is  incomprehenfible.  In  faith  hiftoricall 
there  muft  bee  knowledge  of  the  hiftbry  and  truth  of  the 
Gofpel  ,  much  more  in  faith  juftifying.  There  is  fuchre-  ' 
lation  betwixt  Faith  and  the  Word,  that  without  the| 
Word  there  can  be  no  Faith;  as  the  foundation  being  taken 
away,  that  which  fliould  bee  buih  upon  it  cannot  (hnd.  | 
The  order  whereby  men  are  brought  to  the  faith,  isthis  ; 
firft  they  hearcand  then  they  bclccvc.  Faith  is  an  aflent  to ! 

thct 


f  I. 

T  a'uh  prefup- 
pofcth  l^nviv- 


Job  Jp  If. 
Joliii  I/.j. 
i  Tim.  I, I  2. 
I  Tim. 1.7. 
Ads  16.18. 
iMit.  ir.ifjig, 
Eph.  1.8,9. 
Jolm  6.45^ 
i  John  A  i6> 

Rom.  10.9, 
John  xo.ji, 
Rom.10.17. 
tfay  5^. J. 
1  Tim.4,<. 
Col.l.<.&  1.2.. 
Eph.  1.12,13.     I 
/Vds4.4.  j 


.  i-r 


j6 


'  PopifJ)  ohjeifi 
ons  prevented. 
z  Cor.io  5. 
BdUc]u;tif. 
Lib.iX.j. 


Popifh  ObjeSiions  prevented. 


Rom.io.14,17. 

z  Cor.4.14. 
I  Cor.i  j.i. 

Bell,  ubi/upra. 


the  truth  and  promifes  of  God.  But  no  aHTent  can  be  given 
to  a  thing  utterly  unknovvne.  What  is  more  abfurd  than  to 
dreame  of  a  blind  affent  to  we  know  not  what ,  to  a  thing 
we  never  heard  of? 

Hovvlbever  faith  apprehends  myfteries  not  to  be  inqui- 
red into,  yet  the  propofition  and  do6lrineof  all  the  Ar- 
ticles of  faith  muft  be  diftindly  conceived ,  that  a  man  be 
able  to  underftand  what  they  are.  If  a  man  cannot  give  a 
reafon  of  the  thing  beleeved,  he  muft  be  able  to  give  a  rea- 
Ibn  of  his  beleefe.  Faith  captivates  our  underftanding  un- 
to the  obedience  of  Chrift ,  but  is  not  ignorant  of  Chrift, 
or  of  his  doilrine.  It  giveth  credit  and  fubmitteth  to  the 
truth  acknowledged ,  though  it  feeme  abfurd  to  carnall 
realbn,but  it  cherifheth  not  ignorance  of  divine  myfteries 
exceeding  all  humane  capacitie.  iLfubjeiteth  reafon  to  the 
doflrineof  God  and  his  revelation,  but  it  neither  extin- 
guifheth  the  nature  of  man ,  nor  the  light  of  reaicn.  Faith 
is  not  a  brutifli  captivitie, which  yeelds  up  her  eyes  to  be 
put  out :  but  the  underftanding  receiving  a  more  excellent 
fight  by  faith ,  yeelds  up  the  worfe ,  and  doth  not  lofe  her 
light ,  but  exchange  it  for  the  better.  There  is  a  double 
aflent ;  one  from  reafon, the  other  fom  authority:  both  are 
made  with  the  knowledge  of  the  Minde-  Knowledge  is 
included  in  both ;  in  the  one  of  the  caufe  and  properties, 
which  is  ftri<ftly  called  Science ;  in  the  other  of  the  autho- 
rity and  truth  of  the  reveal  er,  and  in  that  refpecSl  of  the 
thing  taught,  which  is  ailed  Faith.  Hoivfhallwe  beleeve  in 
him  efwhom  we  have  mt  heard?  There  is  no  fight  without 
fomevifible  obje6t,  no  faith  without  the  knowledge  of 
GodinChrift. 

Though  knowledge  be  not  faith ,  but  an  habit  diftin6l 
from  it,  yet  it  concurres  to  the  being  of  faith ,  in  as  much 
as  no  man  can  affent  to  that  he  never  heard  of.Wifedome  is 
diftinguifhcd  firom  knowledge  as  a  thing  more  excellent, 
which  yet  it  prefuppofeth  :  To  faith  is  diftinguiQied  from 
knowledge  1  but  cannot  be  without  it.  The  knowledge 


\  which  hath  no  ingccdience  into  faith  >  is  die  knowledge 

•  of 


Faith  is  grounded  on  found  knoroledg  e . 


17 


of  that  which  is  nbt  revealed :  for  faith  not  onely  goeth  be- 
fore fuch  knowledge,  but  utterly  repels  it,  never  admitting 
any  curious  fearch  into  Gods  fecrets.  But  in  things  revea- 
led faith  knowcth  what  it  bcleeveth ,  and  by  beleeving 
knoweth  the  more.  Faith  is  the  cau(c-of  more  ample  know- 
ledge: but  fome  knowledge  of  Gods  will  and  plcafure  is 
antecedent  to  faith. 

And  this  knowledge  nxiftbe  diftinift,  found,  and  ccr- 
tainc.  For  faith  divine  is  fureand  certaine:  therefore  the 
knowledge  whereupon  it  is  grounded  muft  be  iuch  as 
cannot  deceive.  The  aflent  which  faith  gives  to  the  Word 
of  God  is  abfolute  and  unlimited ,  wliich  can  never  bee 
ycclded,unJeflc  being  certaine  in  it  felfc,  weeknowitcer- 
tainely  ^s  it  iSy  and  be  aflured  that  we  conceive  of  it  aright, 
a  The  examination  of  DotSrines  by  the  touchftonc  is  com- 
manded of  God ,  b  and  wonderfully  commended  by  the 
HolyGhoft :  «^the  negledl  of  examining  what  wee  heare, 
dothbring  great  peri  11  and  danger ;  for  Iuch  as  receive  do- 
ctrines upon  the  credit  of  their  Teachers  are  ever  unfetled, 
apt  to  be  feduced,  and  ready  to  ftart  back  in  time  of  trou- 
ble, ^  Certaine  knowledge  is  to  be  begged  of  God,  both 
for  our  felves  and  others :  and  « thanks  have  beene  and 
fhould  be  given  to  God  for  thi?  grace  and  mercie  vouchfa- 
fed  unto  the  Saints. 

The  Papifts  have  much  extolled  the  Colliars  faith,  com- 
mended ignorance,  and  difgraced  knowledge,  as  i^i'mh 
were  much  better  defined  by  ignorance,  than  l>y  know- 
ledge :  but  when  they  areprefled  with  evidence  of  Scrip- 
ture in  this  point,  they  grant  that  knowledge  in  all  funda- 
mental] points  of  Religion  is  nccefl',jry  for  lay  people  :;ir\d 
would  colour  the  matter,  as  ifthey  meant  the  knowledge 
ofreafonvvas  not  neceflTarie  tofalth,  but  of  revelation  one- 
ly. Not  to  difputc of  their  meaning  in  thofe  propofitfons, 
(though  their  words  andpradice,  and  matter  increated  of, 
fuflficicntly  argucthe  vanitieof  thatexcufe)  wee  may  take 
them  as  they  fay,  and  fpare  labour  to  prove  that  faith  can- 
not be  a  blind  af^ent ,  becaule  wee  have  their  confelTion 

C  for 


mdl  be  d'fiinSf^ 
fluid,  ctttaim. 


a  iTbeff.j. 

20,11. 

Col.  5. 16. 

rjoh.4.1. 

b  Arts  I7.it,l2. 

c  I  Reg.  I J -20, 

21. 

PiSa  15.1,24. 
d  Pfal.nji.il, 

;j,-73,r44. 
Col.i.o.  8:2.2. 
eEpfier  1.1^,17. 
2  Cor. 8.7. 
Htjiui  eonTT4 
rSrtnr.lit.i. 
leUar.  ,^<-  fm/fif. 
I...C.7  $   Jni,. 
cittm. 


Ttlet.iMjfr.  Sa  ■ 
cerd.l.i,  c4p-t» 
TW.P.wihii' 
triple  accu'atioi: 
oili.irhit*. 


f-5- 


i8 


Faith  u  an  ^J]em» 


Bom. 1. 1 7.  ic 
I  Cor.t0.i5. 

&ii.i8. 
^  Cor.13  5. 
1  Pet.i.v 
I  Pet. 3. 1 '. 
Rurr.i;  1,2- 
'In  ^hatrefpe^t 
\f»ith  U  implictte. 
■Joh.io  9- 
Mat'b.iif  11. 
Uik.it.i5- 
Aft;  I. •^.  Ma. 
14.  &II.1. 
;joh.43MJ' 
;Heb.ii.3i' 


'  for  It,  chat  faith  requireth  knowledge  of  revelation. 

Theimplicite  faith  then  of  them  that  know  nothing  in 
Religion,  bucbelecve  as  the  Church  beleevetfa,  notunder- 
I  ftandingwhat  fhecbeleevcth  or  proteflech,  i.s  moft  abfurd : 
j  but  when  wee  know  Chrirttrnly,  and  whatfoever  is  ablb- 
lucely  neceffarie  to  lalvation,  there  bee  many  things  wrap- 
ped up  from  us,  which  wee  ought  to  belecve,  in  which  re- 
fpc(?l  Faith  may  be  called  implicite,  or  infolded.  For  being 
compaifed  about  with  milts  of  i2,norance,  wee  actaine  not 
the  underftanding  of  many  things  revealed :  of  which  wee 
ttiaynote  verie  many  examples  inche  DKcipiesof  Chrift, 
having  not  yet  obtained  lull  illumination :  and  in  them, 
who  being  oncly  ftirredupby  the  miracles  of  Cm  if>,  went 
no  furtherthan  to  acknowledge  him  to  bee  thepromiled 
MeJJlas.  So  that  when  a  manknowes  and  undcrlhndsin 
gencrall  the  fubftantiall  articles  belonging  to  faith,  which 
are  contained  in  the  Scriptures,  and  is  ignorant  0  ily  in  the 
particulars  whereby  the  faidgenerall  articles  aredcmon- 
rtrated;  and  when  withallheeufes  chemeanesto  increafe 
inknowledge,byfearching  the  Scriptures,  andheariiigthe 
I  V/ord  preached:  in  this  cafe  his  faith  maybetrue,  thoughi 
I  infolded  in  many  particulars. 

Faith  alfo  may  be  implicite  in  another  refpefl :  f6r  ma- 
ny that  truly  beleeve,  cannot  certainly  affirme  they  doebe- 
keve :  which  befalleth  them  that  are  touched  in  confci- 
cnce  for  finne,  whobewaile  their  offences,  and  defire  tobee 
reconciled  unto  God.  Now  as  in  the  little  tender  bud  are 
infolded  the  leafe,  the  blofTome,  and  the  fruit :  fo  in  true 
ibrrow,  broken- heartedneflc  and  unfained  acknowledge- 
ment, filth  and  many  graces  of  Gods  Spirit  are  infolded. 
But  this  is  not  properly  underftood  when  we  fpeake  of  im- 
plicite faith,  neither  is  faith  lb  much  wrapped  up  in  thefe 
grace.'?,  as  the  fight  of  faith  and  fenfc  ol  comfort  hid  from 
their  eyes  that  be  diiirefTed. 

§.  2.  Faith  prefuppofeth  knowledge,  and  yeeldsaffent 
to  the  word  of  grace,  relying  upon  the  aurhoritieof  God, 
whoistruein  all  his  fayings,  llncere,  faithful!,  conltantin 

all 


Fatth  is  an  ^£ent. 

all  his  promifes,  &  can  neither  deceive  nor  be  deceived.  ^- 
braham  beUeved  God ;  the  word  imports,  hee  thought  the 
words  of  God  to  be  rure,certaine,rtablc,and  conftant.  Mo- 
y^j  faying)  IfraelwiH not  heleeve  we,  mcancth, they  would 
notaflent  or  give  credit  to  his  words.  And  when  it  isfaid, 
IJraelbeleevedthe  Lordatjd  hufervant  vl/^i/^j-, thereby  is 
underftood,  that  they  gave  credit  to  the  word  of  the  Lord 
Ipokenby  his  fervanc  Mofes.  This  is  cleare  in  the  exhorta- 
tion of  Jehojhafhat  unto  the  people,  faying ,  Beleeve  in  the 
Lord  your  God,fojhallyo(t  be  eftabltjhed ;  beleeve  hi.s  Pro- 
phets,fo fhall yee projper.  Anjd  thac  of  Davfd,  I beleevcJ, 
therefore  have  IJpoken^oo  ii  '••'lri£  jOjJ  •.  n\t»i  ^  Av.\ 

Bcleefe  is  alwayes  grounded  upon  the  authoritie  and  re- 
putation of  him  for  whofe  word  fake  wee  beleeve,  and  murt 
needs  have  reference  to  fome  uttered  word  cr  revelation, 
asthcobje6t :  but  it  may  be  iiilhined  and  ftrengthened  by 
other  motives  and  inducements,  experiments  and  proba- 
bilities. ManyobjevSls  of  faith  mayalfo  bee  evident,  and 
that  which  is  teleeved  may  alfo  be  feene :  Th»mas,becaufe 
thou  haTtfee^e  met  thou  haft  beleeve d.  There  i  s  a  coinpof- 
fibilitie  of  faith  and  evidence  in  diverfe  relpe^ls,  whereby 
they  may  both  ftand  together  in  the  fame  man,  about  the 
fame  obje6>,  albeit  faith  reft  not  upon  that  evidence,  but 
upon  divine  revelation.  Faith  and  Science  are  habits  that 
may  ftand  together.  Faith  by  anthoritie  revealed.  Know- 
ledge or  Science  by  evident  demonftration.  For  albeit  faith 
exceed  thedimenfionof realbn,  yet  reaibn  is  fubordinate  to 
it,  as  fciife  is  to  underftanding :  and  therefore  as  it  is  no  in- 
convenience to  fay,  weeunderftand  the  thing  wee  fee;  no 
more  is  it  to  lay,  wee  beleeve  that  which  is  evident  in  di- 
verfe refpe<5ts.  Many  divine  things  touching  God,  which 
are  received  by  faith,  may  alfbbe  found  out  by  naturall  rea- 
fon.  And  if  things,  credible  by  themanifcft  likelyhoodof 
truth  which  they  have  in  themfelves,  bee  made  more  incre- 
dible by  the  knovvne  condition  and  qualirie  of  the  utterer, 
faith  relying  upon  the  authoritie  of  the  revealer,  may  bee 
ftrengthened  by  the  .probabilitie  of  the  thing. 

C  2  Faith 


15? 


Gen.Tj.c;;, 


Dcut'i.j 

ExoJ.4 

14.31- 


I.& 


1  Chron.jo.io. 


Pfal.it'?.!?. 


Joh  20l> 


\y 


20 


Faiih  is  an  Jjjfnt, 


I .  TirmC' 

2  Tim  3w4. 


Rom.8-3J. 


Hcb.ii.T. 


Tei fomel'irtui  Ac 

etmfanitdttitb 

donbrinis. 


Matth.i4'3r. 
andar.ii. 


Mark.ii-aJ. 

Luke  II. 2i^. 
Jam.i.tf. 

Mar'k.9.24. 


Rom.4'i«^» 


RoTt.4.*9,20. 


Faith  is  a  firrae  aflentjas  appcareth  by  the  originall  of  the 
word,&  the  arguments  whcrwith  it  is  joyncd-  lamferfwa- 
dedefthe  fame  thiagy  that  he  which  hath  begun  this  good 
rporke  in joh^ipp ill ^er forme  it  Hntillth<e  day  ofjefta  Chrifi. 
Continue  thoH  in  the  things  which  thott  haft  learned,  and 
art  ajfured  of.  For  thereby  rree  k*?ew  that  wee  are  of  the 
trut  h ,  andfha  llbefo  re  h  im  affure  our  h  earts .  I  am  p  erfwa- 
dedjthat  neither  life  y  nor  death,  nor  Angels  ^  nor  principali- 
ties, &c.  where  thegrounds  of  this  pcrfwafion  fhevv  it  to  be 
firrre&infailibk.  And  it  is  further  manifefted  by  the  defi- 
nition of  faith  given  by  the  ApoftleiCaUingit,  The  evidence 
of  things  notfeene  :  becaufe  it  doth  rcprefent  thofc  things 
to  the  mind  by  a  certainc  aflcnt,  and  to  the  heart  by  certain 
confidence,  which  cannot  be  comprehended  by  reafbn. 

But  though  faith  in  it  felfcbe  a  firme  aflent,  yet  by  rea- 
Ibn  of  our  infirmity  it  is  Ibmetimes  accompanied  with  doub- 
tings.  The  things^beleeved  of  all,are  one  and  the  (ame ;  but 
the  habit,quality,or inward  fl:rength,by  which  they  beleeve*, 
is  not  of  like  force  in  all.  In  it  owne  nature  faith  is  oppofite 
to  doubting  and  wavering ;  O  thvtt  0  f little  fait  hjwhere fore 
didj}  thou  doubt  f  If  ye  have  fait  h,&  doubt  not.  fVhofoever 
fhallfay  unto  this  mount aine^  Take  thyfelfe  away,  and  caft 
thy  felfe  into  thefea,  andfioall  not  waver  in  his  heart,  but 
jhall  beleeve  that  thofe  things  hee faith,  fhall  come  to  pajfe. 
Therefore  atke  not  what y  e  {hall  eat, or  what  ye  fhall  drin^e: 
neither  let  doubtfullthorfghts  afcend  in  your  hearts.  Aske 
in  faith,  and  waver  not.  But  through  our  weaknefieic  is 
often  mixed  with  doubtings  :  Z<»r«,  I  beleeve,  help  wine 
unbeleefe.  Abraham  is  commended  for  his  faith,  and  pro- 
pounded by  the  HolyGhoftasa  patterne  to  all  his  pofte- 
ritic :  yet  was  hee  not  free  from  infirmities,  as  the  ftorie 

(liewcth  in  diverfe  particulars.  The  Apoftlc  writeth  thus 
of  the  faith  o^  Abraham  :  ey^nd  being  not  weakf  in  faith  j 
he  conjlderednot  hii  owne  body  now  dead,when  he  woi  about 
an  hundred  yeeres  old,  neither  yet  the  deadneffe  «f  Sarahs 

womb.    Hee  Jlaggerrd net  at  the  promife  of  God  through 

unbeleefe :  but  wasfirong  in  faith,  giving  glorie  to  Cjod» 
Ho. 


Faith  is  an  ^JJent, 


21 


Hee  doubted  not  through  infidelitic,  but  of  infirmitie  hec 
doubted,  when  hee  tcoke  Hagar ;  and  requeftedi'rfr^^  to 
lay,  fhee  was  his  fiftcr.  Much  is  fpoken  in  Scripture  of  the 
fiithofDavtd :  but  he  was  fliaken  many  times,  as  he  con- 
felfcth  of  himfelfe ;  Ifaid  itt  mine  hafie,  lam  cut  offfronu 
before  thine  eyes.  Verily,!  have  cleanfedmy  heart  in  vaine, 
andwafhed  mine  hands  in  innocencie.  I  [aid  in  my  hafie. 
All  men  are  Hers,  And  though  it  beoutof  queftion,  that 
we  are  to  endcvour  for  the  perfection,  as  of  all  other  graces 
of  Gods  Spirit,  fo  of  that  faith  whereby  wee  give  affnt  to 
what  God  hath  revealed:  yet  by  realbnofour  weakntflb 
it  comes  to  pafle,  that  doubtings  doc  many  times  arife  in 
our  hearts. 

The  alTcnt  that  faith  gives  to  the  word  of  God  is  ab- 
(blute  and  unlimited;  vit:..  to  the  whole  truth,  promifcs, 
threatnings,  commandements.  It  will  not  take  and  leave 
at  pleafure,  but  it  it  apprehend  in  one  thing  what  the. 
Lord  faith,  it  will  receive  his  teftimony,  if  it  can  appre- 
hend it  to  be  of  God,  in  cvcrie  thing,  and  thatfimply  be- 
ciufe  it  is  the  word  of  God,  though  it  t\cc.tA  humane  ca- 
pacitie  and  likelyhood.  So  worp^ip  I  the  god  of  my  Fa- 
thersibeteeving  all  things  that  are  tvritten  in  the  Law  and 
the  Prophets. 

It  is  a  finne  for  a  man  not  to  beleeve  whatfbever  God 
hath  made  knowne  in  his  Word,  and  in  that  re/jjedit  is 
damnable  not  to  beleeve,  or  to  mi(-beleeve  any  thing :  But 
through  ignorance  and  infirmitie  a  Chrillian  may  mif-be- 
leevc  many  things  without  the  danger  of  damnation. 
Faith  fliould  bee  entire  in  all  things,  muftbee  entire  in  aJi 
fnndamentall  foints;  without  the  knowledge  and  faith  of 
which,  a  man  of  age  and  difcretion  cannot  bee  laved :  but 
all  crrour  and  rnif-bcleefe  doth  not  deftroy  the  truth  of 
faith,  no  more  thancvene  imperfeflion  doth  the  truth  of 
righteoufneflc.  A  man  may  mif-underftand  diverfe  places 
of  Scripture,  and  thereupon  hold  that  to  bee  true  which  is 
falfe,  and  yet  bee  laved  for  all  this  errour.  The  Apoftlcs 
themfelvcs,  for  a  long  time,  even  till  after  the  Afccnfionof 


our 


Gen  i6»  j,4. 
Gen. 12  I J 


pr*i  jt.«. 

and  ii6  K- 


2.  Abfolutt, 


AAss|.i4. 


Adii-^.S; ».!,). 


\y 


22 


Faith  U  an  jijjent. 


prai.7j.17. 
Dan.2.44. 


ASs  ir.2,: 


our  Saviour  into  Heaven,  and  till  the  comming  of  the  Holy 
Ghoft  upon  them,  looked  for  the  etlablifhment  of  an  earth- 
ly Kingdome  in  this  world  by  their  Lord  and  Mafter.  Did 
they  not  flip  into  this  errour,  by  miPbeleeving  the  prophe- 
cies of  the  01dTefl;ament,concerningthecJWir/7?<«^/  King- 
dome?  yet  were  they  out  of  danger  of  damnation,  and  in 
the  flate  of  grace  all  that  time,becaufe  they  relted  on  Chrift, 
as  the  Ipirituall  Saviour  of  their  foules,  that  fhould  take  a- 
way  their  finnes ,  and  bring  them  to  everlafting  life  in 
Heaven,  though  they  crroneoufiy  hoped  for  a  temporal! 
■kingdome  alfo.  And  after  they  had  received  the  gifts  of  the 
^Holy  Ghoft,  for  a  time  they  were  ignorant  of  theconver- 
fion  of  the  Gentiles.  Hee  that  beleeveth  the  truth  in  one 
thing,  becaufe  God  hath  revealed  it>  will  beleeve  everie 
thing  that  he  underftandeth  to  be  revealed  of  God:  But  he 
that  holdeth  the  foundation  of  faith  firme,  and  ftable,  may 
diflent  in  fomc  things  from  that  which  is  generally  holden, 
without  perillofdamnation,  becaufe  hee difccrneth  it  not 
to  be  of  God. 

Faith  IS  an  evident  alTent :  perfpicuitie  of  truth  in  the 
objedl:  apprehended,  and  cercaintieof  perf.vafion,are  two 
twins  that  live  and  dye  together.  In  this  life  it  is  impof- 
fible  for  us  fully  to  comprehend  any  one  point  of  Chriftian 
faith  j  yet  are  they  plaine  and  perfpicnous  in  a  fort  to  the 
fpirituall,  not  to  the  naturall  man.  There  is  a  manifefta- 
tion  of  things  by  reafon,  and  by  revelation :  and  there  is  an 
evidence  direfl,  and  an  evidence  by  confequence:  an  evi- 
cenceof  the  thing  in  it  (tKCi  and  by  the  eft'e(5l :  an  evi- 
dence to  the  naturall  man-  and  an  evidence  to  the  Ipirituall 
man.  Matters  of  faith  are  manifell  by  revelation,  but  to 
reafon  unfearchable,  incomprehenfible :  feene  by  faith,  to 
the  naturall  man  invifible,  incredible.  TheDivinitieof  the 
Scripture  is  in  it  felfe  evident  to  the  fpirituall  man,  fo  is  it, 
thatthereisa  Providence:  other  things  are.  evident  from 
this  ground ;  That  all  truth  contained  in  Scripture  is  to  bee 
imbraced ,  though  with  oppofition  to  all  other  profefsi- 
ons :  and  that  the  profefsion  of  Religion  is  not  to  beere- 

linquiihed,. 


3 .  Evident. 


Fauh  is  an  ^ffeni. 

iinqnifhed,  nor  good  fucccfle  to  be  dclpaired  of,  for  all  the 
arguments  the  Deviil,  the  World,  and  the  FlcOi  can  op- 
pofeagainftnhem. 

The  apprehenfion  of  the  joycs  of  Heaven  cannot  bee  di~ 
ftin6l  and  evident  in  this  life :  but  that  God  hath  provided 
fuch  joyesforhisEle<^,  as  it  is  certaine  from  teftimonyof 
Scripture,  (o  it  is  evident  from  tlie  prefent  peace  of  confci- 
ence, which  thefaithfull  enjoy.  Beloved (\hth  the  Apoftle) 
»<7W  we  are  thefons  ofCJedy  and  yet  it  doth  net  ap-peare  rvhat 
rve  fhallbe  :  bat  we  \now  that  when  he  (hall  appeare, we  [hall 
be  like  him  :  for  we  fhall  fee  him  ofheis.  The  joyes  which 
be  prepared  for  the  godly, and  of  which  the  Apoftle  liedfaft- 
ly  hoped  to  be  partaker,  are  as  yet  unleene  :  but  that  they 
fhalladually  be  accomplifhed,  h  confirmed  by  the  faithfull 
promife  of  God,  whereof  wee  haveevidcnt  and  fullaffu- 
rance.  The  Apoftle  defcribingfaith  tobe//:'^  evidence  of 
things  not  feency  doth  it  not  to  diiparage  the  evidence,  but 
rather  to  fet  forth  the  cxcellencieof  that  heavenly  grace, 
which  includes  an  evident  knowledge  and  apprehenfion  of 
fbmethingsprefentjwhichthcworld  fees  not. 

Faith  alio  is  in  feme  fort  an  aUcnt  difcurfivc,  as  from  ma- 
nifeftexperiencesof  Gods  works  and  favours  wrought  and 
vouchfafedaccordingtothewordof  prom.iie,  the  Saintsin- 
ferre  a  pofTibihtie,or  certaintie  of  like  to  enfue.  Thus  Da-  j 
vidy  The  Lord  that  delivered  me  out  of  the  paw  of  the  Li- 
on, and  out  of  the  paw  of  the  Beare,  he  will  deliver  me  out  \ 
of  the  hand  of  this  Philijhine.  Nothing  is  moreordinarie  i 
intheBookofthePfalmes,  thanforthefervantsof  God  to  ! 
draw  conclufions  offuture  prote6lion,  deliverance,help,and  j 
comfort  from  prefcnt  or  former  blefsings.  I  call  to  remem-\ 
brance  my  fong  in  the  night  \  I  commune  with  mine  owne 
heartland  myjpirit  made  diligent  fear  ch.  We  rcceivedthe 
fentence  of  death  in  our  [elves ,  becaufe  we  fhould  not  trufi  in 
our  ft  Ives, but  tn  Godwhoraifedthe  dead.fVho  delivered  m 
from  fo great  a  death,  &  doth  deliver  w  ;  in  whom  we  trujl, 
that  yet  hereafter  he  will  deliver  /</•  I  fervently  look^for  & 
hopCt  that  in  nothing  I  fhallbe  ajhamed:  but  that  with  all 

C  4  confidence 


23 


I  Joll.J.2. 


Hcb.rr.r. 


4.  D  if  cur- 

five. 


I  sam.17.37. 


Pfal  .77.6.  & 


Cor.  1.9,10. 


1-r 


24 


Faith  U  an  ajfiance or  confidence. 


Phil. 1 .20. 
aTim.4.17,18. 


Fdithtsan  afj!' 
»nte  tr  (tnfidenct. 


i,  Chr«n.io.ao. 
Pf3l.a7.1j' 


PfaI.7J.3r. 
Pfal.-8.ia. 
a  I  Chro.^ao. 
Pfal.7833.aiid 
14-;. 3. 

Prov.i'.iT  1'. 
Pfal.4.8.&;aj>. 
&a52. 
Ilay  13. s. 
Pfa].ii2.7. 
8fii8-». 
Pfal  12J.1. 
Prov.j.5. 
b  Pfal.a  la. 

PfclTI.I, 

PfaJ.3<f.7. 


confidencCi  as  alwaies,fo  ttowiChriflfhaUhe  mamified  in  my 
bodj/t  whether  it  be  by  life  or  death,  I  rvas  aelivered  out 
of  the  month  of  the  Lion  :  And  the  Lord  will  deliver  mee 
fiomeverieevillworkey  andwill freferve me  unto  his  hea- 
venly Kingdoms. 

§.  5 .  Moreover,  JuAiTy ing  faith  is  an  obediential!  con- 
fidence, or  affianceconjoyned  with  afFedHon  of  pietie,fim- 
ply  and  in  comparifon  cleaving  to  the  mercieofGod  in  Je- 
fusChriftas  better  than  life,  and  to  the  Commandemcnts 
of  God,  as  neceflarie,  good,  wwthy  to  be  ftuck  unto,  not 
oncly  whileft  confidered  in  themfclvej,  oringcnerall,  or 
withoot  fuch  incumbrances  and  occurrences,  as  doc  often 
intcrpofc ,  or  hinder  pra6lice ;  but  even  whileft  actually 
compared  with  prefent  lofleof  any  fenfua  11  good  thing,  or 
infli6tionof  any  tempopllevill,  wherewith  the  World,  the 
Dcvill,  or  the  Flefti,canoppo{e  their  price. 

That  faith  \^  an  affiance,  or  reftingupon  the  promifcMp- 
pcarcth  by  the  fevcrall  words  ufed  to  exprcfle  the  nature  of 
that  faith  or  belcefc,  which  the  Lord  requireth  of  his  peo- 
ple, to  the  end  they  might  receive  any  blefling  from  him,  or 
have  his  protcdlion  or  aflfiftance.  The  firft  word  is  tranfla- 
ztdBeleeve,  butfignifieth  fuch  a  beleefeasis  oppofed  to 
fainting:  I  had  fainted,  unleffe  I  hadbeleevedto  fee  the 
goodnes  of  the  Lord  in  the  land  of  the  living.  And  it  imply- 
eth  truft  in  the  word  of  God,  as  fure  and  ftable :  it  is  (bme- 
times  tranflated7?<f^/'<<f?-,or  confiant^U  expounded  by  trufh, 
they  beleeved  not  in  Cod^andtruflednotinhU  falvation. 

The  fecond  word  is  oppofed  to  feeblenefle  of  mind,feare 
and  doubt, and  imports  a  totruflfecnrely :  IwilltruFtyand 
not  be  afraid.  He  JhaU  not  be  afraid  ofevill  tidings :  his 
heart  is  fixed  trufiing  in  the  L  ord-  They  that  truft  in  the 
Lordfhallbe  as  Mount  Sionywhich  cannot  be  removedy  but 
abideth  forever. 

The  thrid  is  rendred  to  trufl,  but  fignifieth  to  betake 
himfelfe  to  one^as  to  his  caflle  or  hiding  flace.  ^  Blejfedare 
all  they  that  put  their  truflinhim\  How  excellent  is  thy 
loving  kindneffe,  O  Lord,  therefore  the  children  of  men  put 

their 


Fdith  is  an  affiance  or  confidence. 


25 


Pr3|.4<5  T, 
Joel  5  \6. 


c  '.  Chron  \6. 
2  Chron.ij.ii. 


Ifay  io.iO. 


their  trttfi  under  thefhadovf  of  thy  wi»gs .  The  Lord  recom-   ^^,^^  ^^^  ^^ 
fence  thyrverke^and  a  fHllrewardbe  given  thee  of  the  Lord    i>i'i\6^.\o. 
God  of  Ifraeli  under  whofe  wings  thou  art  come  to  truft.    ^^''  '•7' 
The  righteotu  (hall  Be  glad  in  the  Lord,  and /hall  truft  in  j 
him.  The  Lord  is  good,  ajlrong  hold  in  the  day  of  trouhle,  \ 
and  he  knoweth  them  that  trufi  in  him.  Hence  God  is  cal- 
led ourfroteUiony  #r  hidptgflace,  to  which  wee  may  fie  in 
trouhle,  and  find  (he/ter  '  Ced  is  our  refuge  andftrengthy  a 
verie  frefent  helf  in  time  of  trouble. 

The  fourth  is  to  leane  upon,  even  as  a  man  would  ftay 
himlclfcona  Itaftc,  wherewith  he  is  onderpropped.  <^Be- 
caufe  theu  hall  relyed  upon  the  King  of  Sy  ria ,  &  not  relied 
on  the  Lord  thy  Cody  therfore  is  the  Hoft  of  the  King  of  Sy-  Provj  s. 
ria  efcaped  out  of  thy  hand.  Were  not  the  Ethiopians  &  the  1*^,1/011., 3 .18. 
Lubims  4/>*(/tf  hoft,with  veriemany  chariots  &  horfemen? 
^  yet  becaufe thou  didfi  rely  upon  the  L  ord^he  delivered  them 
into  thine  hand.  And  itfhallcome  topajfe  in  that  dart  that 
the  remnant  of  Ifraclj  and  fuch  m  are  efcaped  of  the  houfe  of 
Jzcohyjhallno  more  againe  flay  upon  him  that  fmote  them, 
hut  (hall  ftay  upon  the  Lordt  the  holy  one  in  truth .  Two  of 
thele  words  are  ufed  together  in  divcrfe  places,  and  may 
ferve  to  expound  each  other :  JVherefore  thus  faith  the  holy 
e«f  o/Ifrael:  Becaufe  ye  dejpife  this  word,  and  trufi  inop- 
preffion  andperverfneffe ^andfiay  thereon  Woe  to  them  that 
gee  downe  to  Egypr  for  help^  and  flay  on  horfes,  and  trufi  in 
chariots,  becaufe  they  are  many  ;  and  horfemen^  becaufe 
they  are  verieftrong  :  but  they  looke  not  unto  the  holy  one 
of  Jfrael,  neither feeke  the  Lord,  jvho  is  among  you  that 
feareth  the  Lordythat  obeyeth  the  voyce  of  his  [ervantjthat 
walketh  in  darknefje,  and  hath  no  light,  let  him  trufi  in  the 
name  oftheLord,andfiay  upon  his  God. 

Another  word  there  is  almoftofthc  fame  fignification, 
which  noteth,  with  all  the  mind  and  thought  confidently  to 
leane,  orfiay  upon  a  prop.  'They  callthemfelves  of  the  holy 
Qtieiandfiay  themfelves  upon  the  Lord  Godof  Ifracl,  the 
Lord  of  Hofis  is  hts  name.  So  it  is  noted  of  the  people  of 
Ifrael,  that  they  refted,  or  leaned  upon  the  words  of  King 

He^ekjahi  i 


1%  J"  i; 
Ifay  3 1. 1. 


Ifay  50.10. 


Ifay  4'J  a. 


1-) 


^6 


Faith  is  an  affiance  or  confidence. 


2  ChrOR.JJ.?. 


pfal.7r.5/. 
Pfal.ii».7,8. 


ira.25.2;,5,1. 


pral.22-8. 


Pfal.J7-y. 
P10V.16  J. 


ajerem.17.5. 
b  Pfal.6i.f,- 


c  Pfal.i.i-.  & 

Mark.i^.i^. 

Efay2(?.3. 

Rom.5.1. 

pni-iz.j. 

Rom.io.ir. 
Pfal.112.7,8. 
Hebio.jS. 
d  Match  5.2,:; 
Liik-5.io. 
I  Job. 5. 13,14. 
Aft;  27.25. 
Luk.i^.ir. 
Rom. 3. 2. 

&4.I9- 
Maik.1104. 


Hez,ekiahi  comforting  them  againft  the  rage  of  Sen^che- 
rib.  This  word  is  coupled  fometimes  with  one  or  tWOo- 
thers;  Thou  art  wj  hope,  O  Lord  God,  thou  art  my  trult 
from  my  youth .   By  thee  have  I  beene  holden  up,  or  under- 
propped fi'om  the  Tvomb,  Hee  fhall  not  hee  afraid  for  evill 
tidings  ;  hi^  heart  ii  fixed,  trufiing  in  the  Lord.  His  heart 
is  efiablijhed,hee  fhall  not  be  afiatd,  untillhee  feehis  defire 
upon  his  enemies.  Open  yee  the  gates,  that  the  righteow 
nation  which  kfepeth  the  truth,  may  enter  in.    Thou  wilt 
keep  him  in perfetl peace,  whofe mind  ts  fiayed  onthee  ;  be- 
caufe  he  trufieth  in  thee.   Trufiyee  in  the  Lord  for  ever: 
fortnthe  Lord'^thovz!^is  everlafiingfi-rengt'h.  ,' 
■  The  fixth  word  fignifieSjf  <?  roll,  or  caFt  bimfelfe  upon  the 
Lor-d',  as  a  man,  in  danger  of  drowning,  cacchech  faft  hold 
of  feme  wi  Mow,  or  other  thing  that  harigeth  over  the  water, '  - 
and  is  at  hand ;  or  as  hee  that  is  preifed  with  a  greivOilS 
burden  above  hisftrength,  cafeth  himfelfe,  reftingit  upbq 
feme  poft  or  block  that  is  able  to  beare  it .  He  trufted  in  the.^ 
Lord  that  he  rpoutdrdeUver  him  :  let  him  deliver  him,  fee- 
ing he  rolled  himfelfeon  the  Lord.    Rollthj  way  upon  the 
Lord ;  trufi  in  him,  and  he  {hall  bring  it  to  paffe.   %ojl  thy 
Works  upon  the  Lord,  and  thy  thoughts  (hall  be  efiablijhed. 
a  To  truft  m  man  h  to  make  man  his  arme,  letting  his  heart 
goe  back  from  God  :  ^  and  to  truft  in  Godj  is  to  place  our 
ftrengthinhim. 

In  the  Scriptures,  confidence  is  ofc  put  for  faith,and  troft 
expounded  by  beleefe :  c  as  where  the  Old  Teftamenc  com- 
mandeth  truft,  the  New  Teftamentrequireth  faith:  and  in 
theNewTeftamentthe  fame  things  are  attributed  to  faith 
and  beleevers,  which  in  the  OldTeftament  are  attributed 
toconfidence,  and  them  that  truft  inthe  Lord.  In  the  New 
'^  TeftamentjFaith  and  beleefe  are  put  for  truft  and  aflnance  ; 
and  to  beleeveis  not  onely  to  aflfent,  but  to  reft  upon  and 
embrace.  The  phrafe  which  the  Holy  Ghoft  moft  com- 
monly ufeth  toexprefle  Beleevingin  C/^r//?,  is  neither  in 
che  Greek  Tranftation  oFthe  Old  Tcftament,  nor  (for  ought 
h.^th  beene  yetobferved)  in  any  Greek  Author  whatfoever, 

except 


A 


Fatth  is  an  ajtance  or  confidence* 


27 


jexccpt  thofe  that  did  write  fince,  and  tookc  it  from  the 
Scripture.  To  beleevein  God,  or  in  Chrift,  is  for  fublhnce 
and  fenfe,  to  truft  to  God ,  or  Chrift ;  and  this  kind  of 
(peech  is  ufuaJl  amongft  Greek  Writers.  To  help  us  in  the 
underftanding  of  this  matter,  the  Seventie  in  their  Greek 
afford  anoclier  phrale  marvellous  fignificant,  To  beleeveorti 
■or  upon  God.  This  the  Holy  Ghoft  ufeth  often  :  but  withall 
.he  becomes  the  Author  of  a  new  «  phrale  himfelfe,  to  make 
us  themoreeafily  and  fully  underftand  what  faith  heemea- 
.neth  in  the  matter  of  our  Juftification.  And  though  the 
f'phrafebelbmetimes  ufed,  when  true  and  lively  confidence 
is  not  underftood;  yet  it  is  more  than  probable,  that  the 
Holy  Gho{i,  by  this  new  manner  of  fpecch,vvould  propound 
fomevvhat  more  than  bareaflenting  to  the  truth  of  what  was 
promifed.  And  if  wee  confider  the  palTages  of  Scripture, 
wbcreinthc  phrafe  is  ufed,  it  willbee  piaine  and  evident. 
Tohimthat  worketh noty  but  beleeveth  onhimthat  jujii- 
fieth  the  uyjgadlj^  his  faith  is  counted  for  righteot^fnejfe. 
What  is  thiSj'Be/eeveth  on  him  that  jufiifieth  the  ungodly? 
no  more,  but  beleeving  thofe  things  to  bee  true,  which  hee 
aflfirmeth,  who  juftifieth  the  ungodly  ?  that  is  not  probable. 
Beholdi  I  lay  in  Sion  a  fiamb/ingfione,  and  rock^  of  offence-^ 
and  uphofoever  beleeveth  on  hint,fl)all  not  be  afhamed.  How 
can  a  man  beleeve  on  this  rock,  unlefle  he  leane  upon  it,  or 
flick  and  adhere  unto  it  ? 

Faith  looketh  at  the  promifes  as  true,  and  putteth  forth 
it  lelfe,  to  receive  and  embrace  them  as  good ;  which  can- 
not be  done  by  a  bare  perlvvalionof  the  mind.  If  the  pro- 
mifes were  onely  true ,  but  no  vvayes  beneficiall ,  there 
might  bee  an  aflured  perfwafion  of  them  in  mind,  without 
any  affeilion  or  moving  of  will  towards  them :  But  faith 
adhereth  totheword  as  goodtomee,  aswellas  trueinit 
felfe,  which  cannot  bee  done  without  a  godly  afte61:ion 
embracingit.  To  beleeve  on  Chrift,is,ro  i^ceive  him.  And 
what  is  this  receiving?  Not  onely  a  comprehenfion  of 
the  undcrftanding,  but  an  embracing  of  the  heart  and  affe- 
(5lion,  laying  hold  on  him,  as  wee  take  that  with  the  hands 

which 


W.  Pfal.a.ij. 

2  Chron.itfj. 

Pfal.77.26.& 

III.?'  &  124.1. 

Sept. 

c  %\(. 

Adb  1 9.4.  and 

2o.ir.  &  J4.24. 

Matth.y.42. 

Job. 1. 11. 

t  Joh.2.23.& 

12.42. 


Rom. 4. 


Rom, 9.^3. 
I  Pec.2.<'. 


|ofl.I.I2> 
CoI.2.(?. 


i-y- 


28 


f  I  Pft.T.?,2l. 

I  Pet.i.''. 

Joh  14.1.  &  J  I*. 

&  9.3  5,56. 

g  Macth.i6.i6' 
Joh  20.51. 
Rom. 10.9. 
iCor.is.i  5,4- 
Ads  8. J  7. 


Joh.  4.1  = 


Mark'i  :4> 


F^/f^  «  tf«  ajjiance  or  confidence. 


which  is  reached  unco  us.  Beleeving  on  Chrift  is  implycd 
in  the  phrafe  ofgoingt  or  commwg  to  Chrifi ;  which  going, 
no  doubt,  is  rather  a  (pirituall  motionof  the  heart  and  afFe- 
6lions  towards  Chrift,  than  a  contemplation  ofthc  mind* 
contented  to  fee  and  behold  him . 

The  Holy  Ghoft,  fpeaking  of  juftify ing  faithjdoth  ufe  the 
entire  phrafe  ^o^  faith  in  God  and  Chrifiy  oton  God  and 
ChriFt,  which  either  there  or  ellewhere  is  declared  by  con- 
fidence, or  truft  in  God  and  Chrift.  And  the  fame  muft  be 
underftood,  when  nothing  is  added,  gbntlifeorjuftificati- 
on  is  attributed  to  belcefc,  that  Jeftis  (^hrifi  is  the  [oh  of 
God.  For  it  is  a  generall  rule,  that  words  of  knowledge  arc 
words  ofafFcdlion,  much  more  words  of  bcleefe. 

As  the  people  of  God  looked  fortheMcffias,  fo  accor- 
ding to  the  prophecies,  they  promifed  to  thcmfclvcs  all 
good  in  &  by  the  Mefsias.  The  woman  of  Samaria  could 
(zy^ivhen  the  Meflias  comnteth,he  will  teach  tcs  all  things : 
Where  wc  may  (ec,  that  there  was  not  onely  a  knowledge 
of  Chrift  to  come,  but  an  expectation  and  hope  placed  in 
him,  as  in  whom  all  good  things  promifed,  ftiould  beeac- 
compliftied.  So  that  if  wee  confider  the  di(pofition  of  the 
people,  whofe  hope  did  hang  on  the  Meflfias,  wc  may  plain- 
ly underftand,  thattobeleevc  the  Meffiasj  is  not  onely  to 
know, but  to  have  an  affiance  in  him. 

If  by  beleeving  that  Jefus  is  Chrift,  no  more  bee  meant 
but  bare  aflenting  unto  that  truth,  then  the  Devils  profeflTe 
as  much.  But  that  beleefe  to  which  life  is  afcribed  is  not 
a  bare  a<S^ion  of  the  underftanding,  but  of  the  heart  and 
will.  It  is  fuch  abeleefe,  as  whereby  Chrift  is  toour  hearts 
that  which  weebeleeve  himtobe:  whereby  wee  come  to 
Chrift,  beleeve  in  him,  and  reft  upon  him  for  {alvation  ; 
whereby  wee  beleeve  to  our  owne  ufe  and  comfort  that 
which  weebeleeve.  It  is  fuch  abeleefe  as  de(ireth,feeketh, 
embracerb,holdeth,  joyethinthat  which  it  beleevah,  be- 
caufe  therein  it  feeth peace;  whereby  wee ib beleeve,  that 
Jefus  is  Chrift,  as  that  according  to  that  we  beleeve  him  to 
fc,  we  put  our  truft  and  confidence  in  him, 
The  I 


Popfh  Ob  jettons  preventeii. 


The  faith  of  j^^aham  is  commended  forihefinne  al-l 
lent  that  hee  gave  to  thcpromife  of  God  :  bnt  the  confi- 1 
dencc  of  his  heart  refting  upon  and  cleaving  unto  the  pro- 
mile,  is  not  obfcurely  declared.  FortheAportle  faith,  ^. 
hrahambeleeved  above  hcfe^  that  is,  hee  conceived  firme 
confidence  in  heart  of  the  truth  and  power  of  God. 
Which  is  manifeft  bythe  Antithefis,  Hee  doubted  »et  by 
%  difirnfi  or  infidel  ttie  'y  for  incredulitie  isas  well  the  di- 
ftruft '^  of  heart,  as  the  hefitation  of  mind.  If  Abraham^ 
had  oncly  acknowledged  the  truth  of  that  which  God 
promilcd ,  and  not  trufted  to  him  for  the  performance 
thereof,  what  could  chat  faith  have  profited  him  ?  What 
can  it  availeanyman  tojuftification,  that  hee  holds  Jefus 
Chrift  to  be  the  oncly  Saviour,  and  faith  in  him  the  onely 
meanes  of  lalvation,  if  he  doc  not  withall  relye  upon  him 
to  be  ^vtd  by  his  mediation  ?  What,  that  the  Apoftle  him- 
felfe  applying  that  parricularof  ^^M^^wtoall  bcleevers, 
expoundcth  that  belceving,  by  confidence  in  or  relying  up- 
on God :  vphich  beleeved  on  him  that  mi  fed  »p  /<'/«<  our 
Lord  from  the  dead. 

Fatth  is  the  fubflance  of  things  ho^ed  for,  and  the  evi- 
dence of  things  notfeene,  not  onely  becaule  it  makes  things 
fpeculatively  tofubfiftinthemind,  but  much  more  becaule 
it  makes  them  Jfiduciallytofubfilt  in  the  heart,  as  appea- 
rethby  theApoftle,  putting  ^fubftance  and  confidence  for 
the  fame.  For  the  fubfillence  of  things  hoped  for  is  truft 
or  confidence,  whereby  wee  reft  on  the  pLomifes  divine, 
knowing  and  being  perfwaded  that  God  will  make 
good  whatfoevcr  hee  hath  fpoken  :  And  faith  is  the  fub- 
ftance  of  things  hoped  fors  becaule  it  is  a  confident  refiing 
upon  God  for  the  accomplirhmentof  what  hee  hath  fpo- 
ken, as  if  it  were  already  fulfilled.  Andlbitis  thedemon- 
ftration  of  things  to  come,  not  intelledluall  onely,  butfi- 
duciall ;  which  is  a  fveet  motion  of  the  heart,  enlarging 
itfclfe,  and  refting  in  the  mercie  of  God,  pretentand  to 
come ;  and  making  things  to  come  in  a  fort  prelent  to  the 
heartjin  rclpc6l  of  the  promife  made  by  God,  and  the  tafte 

and 


tni  pr(Vfn;ecf, 
Roir.4.1  J'lO. 
BeUxr.  de  Jf.ftif, 
li'.-.l  ca~.6. 
Rom.4  IS. 


'  Ast!ie  vulvar 
nith  t. 
Rom  4.2'>. 
h  Mat.l1.14.5r. 
and  ij.10. 
Ma^k^.i-j. 


Rom^..:^. 


'  Hch.ii.r. 

*  lib.i.  cap.i. 

I 

I 

;  i  Heb.4.i^.and 

,  k  Hcb.;.'-,T4. 
1  Cor . 9. ^.  and 

Ezek.ip.j. 

;   Micli.57- 
Pfal.jS  If. 
Sept. 


3' 


Heb.ii.j. 


Epbef.j.rj. 

lio.l.  C(iji-6. 


Joh.4.8.', 


Rum.  =^.1,2,3. 
&8.3S. 


Popijh  ObjeBions  prevented. 


and  inchoanion  of  the  good  promifcd.  That  faith  is  an  af- 
fent  to  divine  revelation,  that  it  is  in  the  undcrftanding, 
and  that  the  a6l  of  faith  is  to  underftand,  no  man  denyeth : 
but  it  is  an  alTent  conjoyned  with  affiance,  not  a  bare,  but 
fiduciallail'em:  which  is  referred  to  God  as  heeis  faith- 
full  in  performing  promifes,  as  hope  is  referred  to  him,  as 
hee  hath  power  and  authoritie  to  pcrfbrme  whatlbever  hce 
hath  promifed. 

The  Apoftle  faith,  PVeehaveboldnejfe  andaccelfe,  with 
confidence  by  the  faith  ofChrift :  which  paflage  doth  rather 
prove  faith  to  bee  confidence,  than  otherwile :  for  confi- 
dence may  be  joyned  to  faith  as  his  proper  paflion.  A  man 
is  faid  to  worke  by  reafbn,  becaule  hee  is  reafonabJe :  fo 
faith  to  come  unto  God  with  confidence,  bccaufeit  is  fi- 
duciall.  Nothing  can  make  another  thing  hot,  which 
hath  not  heat  in  it  felfe ;  nor  could  faith  ingender  confi- 
dence in  the  beleever,  if  in  its  owne  nature  it  did  not  con- 
taincthefame.  God  is  love  cflTentialiy  and  originally,  and 
yet  hee  worketh  love  in  us,  a-nother  kind  of  love,  which  is 
an  image  and  effeft  of  his  love.  Love  in  which  wee  ob- 
j  ferve  the  Commandements,  is  the  formall  effe(5lof  love, 
/  the  effe6ts  of  love  flow  fi:om  love.  As  the  effcdl  is,  (o  is 
thecaufe.  Can  the  waters  bee  fweet,  if  the  fbantaine  bee 
titter?  Confidence  accompanying  faith relpe6>eth  ill  the 
promifes  of  God,  and  is  the  ftore-houfe  of  all  particular 
confidence :  the  confidence  wrought  by  faith,  is  the  par- 
ticular application  of  this  generall  confidence.  Confidence 
confidered  as  it  doth  embrace  Chrift  with  a  certaine  affi- 
ance, is  the  forme  of  faith :  as  it  begetteth  in  us  quietneffe 
ofconfcience,  andconHdenceoflibertie,  it  is  an  efFe<5lof 
faith.  The  meaningof  the  Apoftle  fcemeth  to  bee  this ; 
Becaufewee  are  reconciled  unro  God  by  faith  in  Chrill, 
therefore  in  confidence  (or  confidently)  wee  come  unto 
God,  neither  diftrulHng  nor  doubcing  that  wee  have  ac- 
cefle  unto  him.  So  that  by  confidence  in  Chrifl,  wee  have 
confidence  in  God  toobcaine  thofe  things  that  wee  ftand 
in  need  of.  Moreover,  confidence  is  oppofed  to  doubting, 

when 


— *f 


Faith  is  an  Bbedtemtall  affiance. 


I 


when  the  underftanding  doth  cleave  to  neither  part  of  the 
contradiiHon,  bucdoth  float  betwixt  both ;  and  to  diftruft, 
when  the  will  doth  chricnot  totrull  tothepromiler.  And 
if  we  expound  the  words  of  the  Apolllein  the  parage  be- 
fore cited,  of  confidence  as  it  is  oppofcd  to  doubting,  the 
(enle  runneth  plainely.  By  faith  wee  havelbfcee  and  full 
accefle,thacvvedoenot  doubt,  but  wee  (hall  obcaine  what 
weaskc. 

§.  4.  Faith  IS  a  lively  oblfquious  affiance,  joyncd  with 
an-affedion  of  pietie  :  for  as  it  makes  plea  for  mercie,  fb  it 
thruf^eth  forward  in  obedience;  as  it  uniteth  the  heart  to 
thepromifcs,  To  it  glueth  faiUotheCommandements;  as 
i  David  faith,  Teach  mc  good  judgement  and  knowledgCifor 
I  have  beleeved  thy  Commandements,  By  faith  Noah  mo- 
vedwith  nvere^ce.py'epared  the  Arkeforthe  favi^g  of  his 
houjJ;oid.  Bj  faith  khr shim /eft  his  countrey  and  J^ndred, 
andforlbok  all  fkange  religions  and  idols  to  follow  God; 
By  faith  he  coKtentedly  abode  in  the  land  0/ Canaan,  Oi  in  a 
ffrange  Undt  and  walking  from  place  to  place  remained  in 
tents,  and  in  everie  place  fKcwed  his  godly  devotion  in 
making  an  Altar,  and  calling  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord: 
He  kindly  ycelded  to  his  nephew  Lot,  for  avoiding  cf  con- 
tention; charitably  reicued  him  when  hee  was  taken  prifo- 
ner;  carefully  provided  a  wife  for  his  fon//rf<rc-;  fervently 
intrcatcd  for  tlie  Citieof  Sodome ;  and  meekly  prayed  for 
him  that  had  taken  his  wife.  Hce  is  honourably  commen- 
ded by  God  himfelfe  for  his  good  inftru6lionto  hishoufe- 
hold,  children  andpcfteritie,  that  they  might  walkein  the 
wayesof  the  Lord :  but  above  all  other  hee  approved  his 
faith  in  this,  that  upon  Gods  Commandement  he  hxtzd,\\y 
ofl^'ered  up  his  Ion  /p^c,being  (after  Ifmaels  expulfion)  his 
onelyfon,  his  beloved  Ton,  and  concerning  whom  hee  had 
received  the  promiie  of  life  and  falvatioujand  thecftablifli- 
ment  of  the  Covenant. 

CM:.ofes  conlent  in  this  do61:rine  maybe  found,  where 

Cod  pronounceth  the  Law  of  the  ten  Commandements> 

teaching  all   duties  of  good  works  to  God  and  Man, 

faying. 


z  Cor. 1. 145X5. 
:  Cor.j.i. 
2  Cor.8.:i. 
2  Cor. 10.5 . 


.    §.4- 
cntiAlifffiance. 


Pril.it9  C6. 
Hebli.7. 
f^eii.i:-!. 
Hcl...ii.8,9. 
Gen  15  8. 
and  If. i^. 


Gcn.?4  I. 

Gcn.8.i2}. 
and  a'J.27. 


Gcn.iS.i?, 


Heb.ii  17. 


r 


3^ 


Fatth  is  an  obeditmtall affiance. 


Rariiol.  .^pol. 
The;.  Sea.4. 
Zanch   d;  Re- 
d:mpt.Ub.l.c  p. 
T2.  de pracept. 
Tilen.  Sy»ra^. 
part,  I.  cap. ^6^ 
§.  r8,IJS28,i9- 
Terkjns  Golden 
Cliaire,  cap. 20- 
tiffin,  explic. 
cutecb.  &C' 
Dfut.6.i2. 
Dzut.2C.17'. 


2  Chron.  16. P,^. 


Pfal.iiff.io. 


faying,  /  am  the  Lord  thy  (jod ;  he  thereupon  infcrrcth  all 
their  obedience  to  thofe  Commandcments.  For  what  i^, 
I  am  the  Lord  thy  God.hat  the  covenant  of  faith  to  be  their 
God  in  the  promife  of  Chrift  ?  upon  this  hec  requiring 
obedience  in  a  godly  life,  dothinfinuatc,  that  they  which 
beleeve  God  to  be  their  God,  muft  declare  the  fame  by 
obedience  to  his  Commandements.  And  therefore  hec 
(aithin  znoihat  phce^  Beware  t  hot*  forget  not  the  Lord  thy 
Godi  not  keeping  his  Comman dements :  which  iheweth 
plainly,  that  where  difobedience  is,  there  is  no  faith:  for 
how  can  hee  have  faith,  that  forgetteth  him  in  whom  hec 
fliould  beleeve?  And  this  dothc>^<?/tf/aimcat,  when  hec 
faith,  ThoH  ha^avonchedthe  Lordthis  day  to  be  thy  God, 
andtowa/ks  inhiswayest  and  to  k^epehu  Statutety  and 
his  Commandements y  and  his  judgements,  and  to  hearken 
unto  his  voice.  Whereby  it  appeares,  that  unto  faith  in  co- 
venanting with  God,  this  is  an  infeparable  coniequent ;  that 
if  we  embrace  God  by  faith,  wee  muft  and  ought  to  follow 
his  Commandements  by  our  deeds ;  and  hee  that  doth  not 
this  latter,  bewrayeth  that  hee  hath  notvvitha  true  heart 
and  faith  received  the  former. 

To  beleeve  is  not  onely  to  give  credence  to  what  the 
Scripture  faith,  but  to  embrace  what  is  faid  with  an  entire 
adherence  of  foule,  and  to  cleave  unto  iz.  Hee  that  leaneth 
upon  the  Lord,  his  heart  is  upright  before  him:  and  hee, 
whofe  fpirit  cleaveth  not  ftedfaftly  unto  the  Lordj  is  in- 
credulous. Therefore  the  Prophets  which  expound  the 
L^w,  in  the  peribn  of  God,  fay  thus;  o^  Son  honoureth 
his  Father,  and  a  Servant  his  Mafier :  If  then  I  he  a  Fa- 
ther yvohere  is  my  honour  ?  and  if /be  a  Maji-eriivhere  is  my^ 
feare  ?  Now  wee  know  that  wee  are  Sonnes  no  way  but  by 
faith :  Therefore  this  Prophet  intendeth ,  that  wee  are 
not  joyned  CO  the  Lord  by  faith,  either  as  his  people,  chil- 
dren, orlervants,  or  that  he  is  our  God,  Fatner  and  Lord, 
except  our  faith  be  unfained  and  operative  in  honour  and 
feare.  And  another  Prophet  faith, /^/?/(?^z/^^,  therefore  I 
jpake,  making  it  a  moft  afliired  thing,  that  a  lively  faith 

will 


! 


I 


Faith  is  an  ohedtenttaUaffiance, 


33 


will  (liew  it  felfe  by  outward  deeds  3  and  namely  pro- 
feflion. 

Mercie  and  obedience  are  linked ;  Chrift  is  both  a  Lord 
and  Saviour:  and  that  taith  which  makes  plea  for  mercie, 
doth  embrace  the  Commandements ;  that  which  receiveth 
Chrift  as  a  Saviour,  fubmitteth  unto  him  as  a  Soveraigne. 
The  ftrcngih  of  faith  is  eqoall  to  the  promifcs  of  life,  and  to 
the  offices  of  pietie  and  love :  or  if  there  be  any  difference, 
it  is  vveakeft  to  lay  hold  upon  the  promifes,  becaufe  they 
are  moft  fpirituall,  and furtheft  removed  from  fenfe.  Confi- 
dence and  relying  upon  the  mercie  of  God  in  Chrift  for 
falvation,  may  be  lefle  than  care  and  abilitie  to  walk  in  obe- 
dience, greater  iz  cannot  be.  The  word  that  in  the  Old  fe- 
ftament  fignifieth,  tofeeke,  is  by  the  Seventie  tranflacedj 
//tf;j<r,  which  interpretation  the  Apoftlealloweth:  whence 
it  followeth,  that  true  confidence,  t  he  mother  of  hope,  doth 
lift  up  the  heart  to  feeke  the  Lord  in  the  Way  of  his  Com- 
mandements. 

Moreover,  faith  is  oppoled  not  onely  to  doubting,  diffi- 
dence, and  fainting:  but  to  wavering,  double-mindednefle, 
halting,  difobedience,  ftubbornnefle ;  by  reafon  of  the  ne- 
ceflarie  connexion  of  thole  parts  in  both  oppofites.  <iy^sk« 
in  faith  yand  tvaver  not  '•  A  deu  hie -minded  man  is  unflable 
in  all  his  wajes.  Through  unbeleefe  thou  art  broken  ojf,and 
thoufiandefi  by  faith.  Take  heed,brethren,  lefi  at  any  time 
there  be  inj/ou  an  evili  heart  and  unf ait h full,  to  depart  a- 
way  fom  the  living  Cjod.  Thej  profejfe  that  they  know 
God,  but  by  works  they  deny  him,  and  are  abominable^  and 
difobedient,  or  unfaithfull.  Hee  that  beleeveth  in  the  Sou 
hath  everlafiing  life :  but  hee  that  beleeveth  (or  ebeyeth) 
not  the  Son,Jhallnotfee  life,  but  the  wrath  of  God  abideth 
onhintj.  Now  if  incredulitie  bee  not  without  diffidence 
and  difobedience,  true  faith  in  God  is  not  without  confi- 
dence and  affe^lion  of  obedience. 

Hereunto  may  be  added,  that  the  manifold  rebellions  of 
Ifrael  in  the  wilderneiTe  are  called  unbcleefe.  They  belee- 
ved  not  in  Cody  and  trufied  not  in  hisfitlvatien  :  for  all  this 

D  they 


Ifa.ii.to. 
Rom.1512. 


Jam  1.6,5. 

Rom. I  r. 20. 
Hcbj.ij. 

Tit.i.ii?. 

Joh.jj*. 


Pfal.78.2t. 3  a. 


/•>• 


54 


j4 fiance  mufi  be  tvell  roetec^. 


julc5. 


ijjh.3.23^14. 


l/e  tctU-ro'jtsd. 
I.ul:.8.i5. 


Matth.15.35. 


2 .  Scundaudpe 


they  ftmiedflilh  andbelceved  notfor.his  vcondraw  nvorkj : 
I  will  therefore  put  you  i?tremembra-/7ce,  though  yee  once 
kncTv  thiiyhow  that  the  Lord  having  faved  the  people  out  of 
the/a^dofEc^ypt,  afterrvard  defiroyedthera  that  he le eve d 
not,  Andbeleefe  inChriftinferreth  the  keeping  of  Gods 
Comm^ndementSjVvhereunto  the  (bii'e  is  inclined  by  faith. 
^nd  this  is  his  (^ommandementy  that  v?ee{hould  beleeve  on 
the  name  of  his  fonne  J efpu  Chrifi,  and  love  one  another ^ 
04  hee gave  m  con'.mandement.  And  heethat  ks^P^^h  his 
Commandements,  dwelleth  in  him-,  and  hee  in  him  :  and 
hereby  we  know  that  he  abideth  in  m^y  thefpirit  which  he 
hath  given  t^' 

§.  5.  This  faith  is  an  affiance  well-rooted,  and  kindly 
planted,  fo  that  it  diffufeth  its  vertuc  into  everie  affe6>ion, 
even  the  whole  maife,  which  it  h  ordained  to  purifieand 
feafon.  It  is  Ibclofe  fettled  and  fa/lened,  that  neither  the 
feare  of  perfecution  can  Icorch  it,  nor  the  cares  of  this 
world  choke  it,  nor  theloveof  pleafure  wither  it;  and  be- 
ing fo  decplyler,  itdilperfeththe  vertneoftheWord  into 
everie  facultie  of  the  Ibulc,  whereby  we  are  fea!bned,a.<;  a  lit- 
tle leaven  leaveneth  the  whole  lump  wherein  it  is  hid  Tem- 
1  porarie  faith  makes  its  abode  in  the  confines  or  fubnrbs  of 
I  thefouJej  the  externa II  face  of  the  heart,  but  fokes  not  into 
the  bottome  of  it:  either  it  hath  but  fhal  low  rooting,  or  at 
I  beft,  can  never  g«°t  under  the  love  of  pleaiiTre  or  worldly 
cares,  which  are  fall  rivettcd  in,  and  will  not  beeremoved 
.  out  of  the  affections ;  and  being  planted  riiallow,  ft  doth 
'  nor,  it  cannot  fend  itsvercue  into  the  feverall  faculties  of 
I  the  Ibule,  to  feafon  them  thorowout.  ^'or  fo  far  as  the  Word 
enters,  it  leafoneth  :  but  being  entertained  fieightly,  with 
fubordination,  it  feafonethbntfuperHcially. 
I      2.  Jurtifyin^  faith  is  a  found  and  permanent  affiance, 
which  arifeth  from  the  firme  fetcing  and  rooting  of  ic  in 
thehcarr.  Forwhenthe  wordof  lifeis/redfallly,  diftinil- 
ly,  certainly  aflented  unto ,  and  fincerely  embraced ,  no 
temptation  or  aflault  can  make  a  man  flinch,  OinfHe,  or 
ftart  afide  from  the  conlhnt  profecution  of  lalvation  in 

the 


y^jf/ance  wuft  bervell-rooted. 


35 


the  way  of  life,  and  thefaithfull  prai^iceoffuch  duties  as 
God  prel'cribes  for  the  attaining  of  that  end.  Faith  that  is 
fincerein  qualitie,  is  ever  found  in  degree,  being  of  Rrength 
tomakereliftanceagainft  all  oppofition  that  fliall encoun- 
ter it ,  having  taken  the  heart  for  its  Fort  and  defcnccd 
Tower.  Againe,  Faithbeing  oncefetinthe  iieart,  asinits 
throne  and  feat  of  Majeftie,  dothevcrie  day  confirme  and 
ftrengthcn  it  felfe  more  and  more,  whereby  the  Beleever 
growes  morerefolnte  towithftandall  afi'auks  and  tempta- 
tions fliot  againft  him.  The  faith  that  takes  kindly,  fprcads 
it  fclfe  by  aflent  and  clofe  adherence  to  everie  object  with- 
in the  fpheare  of  divine  Truth,  to  which  it  cleavethinvin- 
ciblyj  and  from  which  it  cannot  bee  feparatcd  b^  any  ad- 
verfe  power,  or  carnall  allurement,  naturaIIpafsion,orfierie 
afl'aulr. 

The  tcmporarie  beleever  acknovvledgeth  thefummeof 
Chriftian  duties  or  praflices,  and  fubfjribes  unto  them  in 
grofle,  yea  unto  moft  particulars;  but  ever  with  limitati- 
on, fubducting  as  much  as  well  pleafing  humours  difallovv, 
untillhce  finally  diflblve  what  true  faith buildethj  even  un- 
to thefirft  foundation,  if  the  oppofition  of  carnall  fcares, 
hopes,  love,  or  hate  come  once  to  bee  eager  anddire6l. 
And  this  comes  to  pafie,  becaufe  the  Word  was  never 
rightly  planted  in  an  honeft  heart :  for  as  the  tree  that  is 
not  let  deep  to  take  lively  rooting,  doth  in  i^icct^z  of 
time  wither,  though  for  many  yeares  it  may  bring  forth 
both  leaves,  buds,  and  fruit;  16  it  is  with  the  temporaric 
beleever,  becaufe  the  Word  is  not  well  hid  and  rooted  in 
him. 

J.  As  faith  is  a  found,  fo  is  it  an  oveii-ruling  affiance, 
exercifing  an  univerfall  mild  foveraigntie  in  Man.  Faith 
ordinarily  ruleth  where  it  dweileth:  but  the  regiment  is 
mild  and  gentle,  not  rigorous  and  tyrannicall.  Foritfea- 
foneih  our  inbred  afteftions,  akereth  the  tafie  of  everie  ap- 
petite, qualifieth  and  ftrengthenethour  naturall  inclinati- 
on to  that  which  is  good,  and  powerfully  perfwadech  to 
deny  our  felvesand  follow  the  Lord.  It  hath  everie  defire 

D  2  at 


3.  Overti*!in^ 


/•)• 


3« 


2  Tim.i.i2. 
I  Joh.5.43y. 

phil.413. 


affiance  mufl  he  well-rooted. 


4.  Mtnintml/le. 


at  command,  or  as  it  were  underfhot,  that  it  dares  not  ftir 
to  its  prejudice, but  by  health,  or  (bme  fecret  advantage,  e- 
fpiedby  the  flcfli  unable  toftand  out  againftit.  It  is  of 
ftrength  to  makerefiftance  againft  alloppofition,  and  break 
the  violence  of  everie  inclination  contrarie  to  fuch  motion 
asitfuggefteth,  having  its  force  united  by  dole  repolall  in 
the  heart.  It  curbeth  unruly  paflions ;  as  the  power  of  a 
Kingdome  doth  eafily  quell  a  company  of  Rogue<;,  that 
make  inrodes  upon  the  borders,  but  cannot  fet  footing  in 
the  heart  of  the  Kingdome.  Whatlbevcr  is  in  the  world, 
whereby  we  might  bedrawne  away  from  God,  thatisfiib- 
dued  and  vanquiflied  by  the  power  of  faith :  The  pravitieof 
nature,  the  wiles  of  Satan,  allevill  concupilcence,  whatlb- 
ever  is  oppofite  to  the  Spirit  of  God,  that  is  brought  under 
by  the  might  of  faith. 

True  it  is,  that  our  warfare  doth  laft  during  life,  our  con- 
fiids  are  daily,  new  and  diverfe  battels  are  moved  againft 
us  by  the  enemy  almoft  everie  moment :  but  in  all  thele 
faith  is  vi6Vorious.  Thi^  is  the  viCiory  wherehj  rve  overcome 
the  world,  even  eur  faith.  Who  is  he  that  overcomes  the 
Tporldibut  he  that  beleeveth  that  Jefns  is  the  Son  of  God?  I 
am  able  to  do  all  things  through  Chrifi  that  firengthens  me. 
David  firft  encounters  a  Lion  and  a  Beare,  and  afterwards 
overcomes  the  gr^SiiCJ&tiah:  fo  true  and  lively  faith  firft 
begins  with  pettie  defires  and  paflions,  or  fuch  temptations 
as  are  incident  to  our  prefent  ftate  and  calling;  and  having 
gotten  mafterie  over  them,  ftillincreafethas  difificnlciesor 
oppofitions  multiply,  untill  at  length  Satan,  the  worldj  and 
the  flefli  be  brought  into  fubj,e6lion.  But  temporarie  faith, 
keeping  refidence  onely  in  the  out-face  of  the  heart,  iso- 
verlwayed  and  overborne  in  temptation  by  everie  iJrong 
def^re,  or  deep-rooted  pa/Tion.  It  may  perhaps  fuppreflb 
ibme  one  or  few  exorbitant  pafTions,  and  keep  under  the 
out-breach  of  ibmeothers  ;  but  the  palsion  it  (elfe  doth  ftill 
live,  and  beare  fvvay,  to  keep  faith  out  of  its  throne,  and  in 
tim^e  will  prevaileto  choake  the  feed  of  grace. 

4.   Of  all  graces  faith  is  the  molt  humble  ;  a  poore  peti- 
tioner 


Fatih  is  afpirituailtajle. 


S7 


Faith  u  a/ptri- 
tMUttfic. 


my  55.2. 


Hcb-ft. 


doner,  a  begging  hand>  receiving  all  things  of  favour,  chal- 
lenging nothing  to  it  felfe,  alcribing  all  good  to  the  praife  of 
grace.  It  fighteth  manfully,  triumpheth  vidlorioufly,  wor- 
keth  by  love :  but  in  all  this  it  magnifiah  the  grace  ofGod, 
rclyetn  upon  him  and  feeketh  his  praile. 

§.  <5»  Laflly,  jurtifying  faith  for  nature  and  qualitie  k  a 
fpiritualltafte, howsoever  defective  fordegree.  Itreceiveth 
the  Word,  tafteth,  reliOieth,  and  retaineth  it,  as  the  moft 
fweet,  whollbme,  and  delegable  food.  There  is  the  fame 
proportion  betwixt  the  word  of  life,  the  food  of  the  (bule, 
and  the  lively  faith,  that  is  betwixt  bodily  food  and  the  in- 
(Irument  of  bodily  tafte.  Hearken  diligcKtly  unto  me,  and 
eat  yee  that  vfhtch  ps  good-andlet  yeur Joule  delight  it  felfe 
infatfieffe.  The  word  profit eth  them  not  (faith  the  Apottle, 
fpeakingcf  the  liraelites)  becaufe  it  veasnot  mixed  -with 
faith  in  them  that  he^rd  it'  where  the  do6trine  of  falva- 
tjon  is  compared  to  wine,  which  profiteth  not  junleffe  it  be 
drunken,  that  is,  received  by  faith :  and  to  beleeve,  is  fpiri- 
tually  todrinke  the  cup  oflalvation.  Aiy  jostle  thirfleth  for 
thee  {(mh  David)  IBecattfethy  loving  kjndneffe  is  better 
than  life  y  my  lips  jhall  praife  thee  :  Adyfoule(hall  be  fat  if- 
fed  as  -with  marrovp  &fatnejfei  &c.  To  beleeve  in  Chrift, 
is  to  eat  thefefh  of  the  Son  of  man,  andtc  drinke  his  bloud. 

Temporarie  faith  tafteth  the  Word,  as  men  doe  meat 
which  they  fpit  out  againc ;  receiveth  it  as  a  raw  ftomack 
doth  meat ,  which  it  vomiteth  up  and  cannot  hold :  but 
it  never  feedeth  kindly  upon  the  feverall  parts  of  the 
Word  of  life,  norftandeth  affe6>ed  towards  it,  as  a  good 
liomack  doth  to  whollbme  nourifhment ;  which  is  evi- 
dent in  that  the  vyeeds  of  earthly-mindedne{re,pride,plea- 
fure  are  not  flocked  upby  the  roots  ;  and  where  thele  abide, 
thefouleis  not  rightly  tempered  to  apprehend  the  worth 
and  qualitie,  or  feed  upon  the  juyce  of  heavenly  myfteries. 
But  whtre  true  and  lively  faith  hath  refidencc,  the  foulc  is 


i 


tempered  to  fymbolize  with  divine  goodncflc,  and  ftan- 
deth  affe£led  to  the  feverall  branches  of  the  Word,  as  a 
good  appetite  doth:to  whclfome  food  of  diverfe  qualities. 

D  \  This 


Pfil.fj.ij.s. 


Joh.<».j5,5o,Jij 

5J;J4« 


Heb.(J.y. 


i'4- 


SS 


Love  is  not  the  fittie  of  Faith* 


Faith  admits  r»A- 
ry  intcnti^tions. 


L«veuft»ttbt 
fiuletffaitb. 


This  is  the  nature  of  juftifying  faith :  but  it  admits  ma- 
ny interruptions  in  afts  or  operations.  The  mind  is  fbme- 
times  darkened  with  mifts  arifing  from  our  natural!  cor- 
ruptions; iometimes  our  paffions  ftir  violently)  that  wee 
cannot  doe  as  we  would,  nor  continue  our  adherence  unto 
the  word  of  life,  as  better  for  the  time  being  than  the  nro- 
fecution  of  Ibme  fenfuall  good  >  that  for  the  prefent  doth 
moveour  afFeflionsjand  is  ftolne  into  them.  Naturall  tafte 
is  diftempered  with  fick  humours  that  abound  in  the  body : 
fo  is  the  fpirituall  with  temptations  from  without,  andfpi- 
rituall  difeafes  from  within.  Thus  ft  is  with  the  beft  often- 
times in  this  lifej  whileft  the  mind  is  clouded  with  earthly 
thoughts,  and  the  heart  aflailed  with  carnall  lufts,  which 
through  weaknefle,  or  neglect  of  watchfulnefle,  creepupon 
anddifturb  them  for  a  time:  but  in  their  right  temper  and 
good  pliglit  they  are  much  better ;  they  tafte  and  feed  upon 
the  word  of  truth,  and  the  favour  of  God  is  fweetertothem 
than  all  the  delights  of  the  Ions  of  men.  We  conclude  then 
that  juftifying  faith  is  a  firme,  abfolute,  unlimited  aflent, 
and  well-rooted,  all-fea(bning,foveraigne  affiance,whereby 
wee  reft  upon  Chrift  for  falvation,  embrace  the  mercies  of 
God  as  better  than  life,and  ktd  upon  the  Word  with  fweet 
refrefhing  and  delight. 


CHAP.  IV. 

Love  is  not  thefoule  of  faith, yet  jufiifying  Faith 
cannot  he  witkoftt  Love. 

§•  I*  "C^O"^  that  which  hathbeene  fpokenof  the  nature 
I  of  Faith ,  thefe  two  things  doe  plainely  follow : 
Firft,  that  love  is  not  the  \i^Q.  and  fouleof  faith.  Second- 
ly, that  jnliifying  fiith  cannot  be  without  love.  As  iighr 
and  heat  in  the  Sun  bee  infeparable,  fo  is  faith  and  love, 
being  knit  together  in  a  fure  bond  by  the  Holy  Ghoft  ; 

but 


Love  is  noi  the fo ale  of  Faxrh. 


39 


but  love  cannot  be  the  forme  or  Ibule  of  faith.  Livelyhood 
is  the  qualification,  Lcvechecompanirn,  Works  the  fruits 
oreffei>s  of  that  faith  that  juilifieth;  but  faith  receiveth 
not  itsvertue,  life,  or  efficacie  from  charicie,  or  any  other 
vertue,  but  from  the  Spirit,  of  whom  it  is  breathed  intous, 
from  whom  alio  ic  receiveth,  that  it  may  give  force  to  all 
other  vertues  and  good  works,whereby  they  are  vertue s  and 
good  works.  It  is  Faith,  and  not  Charitie,  that  gives  influ- 
ence to  all  other  graces,  even  to  Charitie  it  feJfe;  as  faith 
encrealeth,  fo  other  graces  encreafe;  as  faith  decreafeth,  (b 
other  graces  decreafe :  the  life  of  faith  is  our  life ,  the 
ftrength  of  faith  is  our  ftrength :  if  our  faith  be  weak,  there 
is  nothing  el le  whereby  we  can  be  ftrong. 

It  is  the  eflentiall  forme  or  a6l  of  faith,  to  accept  of  the 
promifes  of  mercie,  whereby  we  obtaine  them  alfo ;  God 
having  appointed  that  as  a  condition,  that  the  promt fe 
mightbefuretoaR  r^i?/^«r<i,  to  exclude boafting,  andtofet 
forth  his  tree  grace  and  favour.  But  Charitie  cannot  ferve 
for  thatufe:  becaufe  I  cannot  prefume  of  that  that  is  ano- 
therSj  upon  any  conicienceof  my  love  towards  him,  but  up- 
on confidence  onely  of  his  love  towards  me.  Be  it  that  all 
things  arc  common  amongft  friends,  before  wee  can  build 
thereupon .wemuft  have  it  refolvedunto  us,that  God  takes 
us  for  his  friends,  which  can  bee  no  otherwifebutby  faith 
onely.  Faith  muft  firft  receive,embrace,and  hold  the  merit 
of  the  bloud  of  Chrif^.before  there  can  be  any  afTurance  of 
friendfhipbetwixtGodandus.  Andalthougn,  being  now 
infriendiliipwithChril^,  our  love  may  give  us  encourage- 
ment and  comfort  to  makeufe  to  ourfelvesof  that  that  is 
his;  yet  itis  not  by  onrlove  that  wee  take  it  to  make  ule 
thereof.  For  the  a6i  of  love  is  done  onely  by  ifTue  and  pa(^ 
fagefrom  him  that  loveth,  to  the  thing  that  is  loved,  as  fi:om 
us  to  Chrift ;  and  therefore  it  muft  be  fomewhatelfe,  where- 
by we  receive  from  Chrift  to  u^. 

Ho'.v  fLould  the  gcodnefle  of  God  be  the  objei>  of 
our  charitie,  but  by  being  firft  the  obje6^  of  our  faith?  For 
Therefore  doe  wee  love  the  goodnefie  of  God,  or  love  God 


D  4 


for 


Heb.TT.3j. 
Gal.3.14  12. 
Matth.g.Tj. 
Rom.4.,f;. 
Rom.  J. 2  j^ 


Rom.j.zj. 


40 


Ldve  if  not  thffoule  of  Faith, 


1 


for  his  goodnefle  towards  us,  becanfe  firft  wee  belecvcthe 
(ame,neither  can  wc  fo  love  but  by  beleeving.  For  charitie, 
confifting  (imply  in  afteiSion,  apprehends  nothing  in  God 
of  icfelfe:  buc  receiveth  all  from  faith-  The  forme  is  the 
beginning  of  a6lions,and  that  that  giveth  influence  and  life 
to  another  thing,muft  needs  have  a  prioritie  to  that  that  re- 
ceiveth It.  But  charitie  is  not  the  beginning  of  the  actions 
of  faith,  (peciallyof  the  aft  of  beleeving;  theaft  of  love 
hath  no  prioritie  tobeleefe,  but  followes  after  it,  and  is 
quickened  by  it.  For  by  faith  we  embrace  the  Word,  and 
receive  Chrift,  when  as  charitie  compellech  us  to  love  him, 
wrhom  we  know,  embrace,  and  hold  by  faith .  We  firft  tafte 
our  meat,  and  then  love  it :  faith  isthefpiritualltaileof  the 
(bule,  which  feedeth  upon  the  fweet  and  tender  mercies  of 
the  Lordjbefbre  the  heart  be  enflamed  with  love.  Faith  and 
love  are  different  gifts  and  graces :  and  feme  effefts  are  at- 
tributed to  faith  which  agree  not  to  charitie :  as  faith  is 
(aid  to  juflifie,  to  purifie  the  heart,  to  overcome  the  world, 
to  receive  the  promifes. 

Charitie  may  be  called  an  accidentall  forme  of  faith;that 
i%i  it  is  an  inllrument  unto  it  for  moving  and  ftirring  a- 
broadinthe  performance  of  all  duties  recommended  unto 
us,  both  to  God  and  man :  bur  the  life  and  foule  of  faith 
it  is  not,  or  the  inward  and  efTc-ntiall  forme,  whereby  it 
hath  life  and  being  within  it  feUe,  and  whence  proceedeth 
a  motion  and  working  that  is  proper  to  it  felfe.  If  charitie 
rhouldbethe  forme offaitb,  then  futhhath  twodifferent 
formes,  its  proper  and  the  forme  of  love ;  then  faith  fliould 
be  the  onely  pure  matter  of  love,  then  (hould  it  bee  obedi- 
ent to  love,  and  contained  of  it,  as  rhe  matter-is  obedient 
to  the  forme,  and  contained  of  it.  The  body  is  aninflru- 
ment  for  the  foule  to  worke  by,  and  not  the  (bule  an  in- 
flrument  for  the  body  to  worke  by.  The  forme  worketh 
in  the  matter,  and  not  the  matter  either  in  or  by  the 
forme,  feeing  the  matter  of  everie  thing  is  pafTive  onely, 
and  not  aftive ;  And  fo  it  (Tiould  bee  betwixt  faith  and 
love,  if  faith  were  as  the  body,  and  love  as  the  foule.  Buc 

charitie 


Popifh  Obje^iens  frexemed. 


4^ 


charitic is  obedient  ro  faith,  faith  governeth  charitie:  for 
whatfoever  wc  love  uprightly,  it  muft  bee  knovvne  by  faith, 
that  we  ought  to  Jove  ir,  and  our  love  muft  be  quickened  by 
faith,  to  love  it  uniformcly,and  in  right  order.  Faith  is  the 
meafure  of  love,  and  the  meafure  of  Jove  is  according  to  the 
meafure  of  faith :  the  intention  of  Jove  is  according  to  the 
degrees  of  faith,  and  the  breadth  of  Jove  according  to  the 
extention  of  faith.  Where  there  is  greater  faiih  in  God, 
there  is  greater  love  to  God :  and  as  faith  fpreadeth  k  felfe, 
fo  doth  love  in  uniforme  manner. 

§.  2.  Faith  is  not  wrought  by  charitie  (asthe^  J^fuite 
perverteth  Ij  that  text  of  Saint  *P<^«/j  for  then  it  will  tol-. 
low,  that  love  by  which  faith  is  wrought  mult  needs  bee 
before  faith,  whereas  all  acknowledge  that  faith  hath  the 
firft  being.  It  is  faith  which  firft  heareth  and  beleeveth, 
and  receiveth  the  word  of  God,  and  thereby  prefcnbeth 
untocharitietheway  that  it  is  togoe^  aadthcdutieitisto 
performe;  itenciteth  to  the  wake,  it  animateththe  2i^y 
and  enlargeth  the  affe^lion  to  the  ieverall  branches  of 
love;  without  which  what  is  charitie,  but  a  wild,  mifha- 
pen,  wandering  affet^Hon,  rifing or  tailing  amifTe,  comming 
rhort  or  running  over  ?  what  the  partiall  and  maimed 
fiuits  of  love,  but  the  verie  c.^rca(Te  of  a  good  worke?  j 
Faith  worketh  by  love ,  not  as  fire  maketh  hot  by  heat, 
which  is  a  formall  propertie  inherent  in  it:  but  as  the ! 
(bule  doth  this  or  that  by  the  hand,  which  is  an  externe ; 
inftrument  ccnjoyned  unto  it:  That  by  which  a  thing  is 
conftituted,  as  by  a  beginning,  and  by  which  itis  eff66lu-' 
all,  that  is  the  forme  thereof  But  love  is  a  grace  without 
the  being  of  fiithj  though  conjoyned  uncoit;  and  faith  is 
efte(5^uall  by  love,  as  a  primarie  meane,  whereby  it  doth 
produce  other  effects,  nor  as  by  it  beginning.  Chriftis  the  | 
fountaineof  the  water  of  life:  Faith  in  the  heart  is  as  the 
pipes  and  leads  that  receive  in  and  hold  the  water:  Love 
in  fome  part  is  as  the  cocke  of  the  conduit,  that  lets  out 
.the water  toeverie  commer.   Faith  juftifieth  by  receiving 
the  gift  of  righteoulhcfle,  which  is  by  the  merit  of  Jefus  j 

Chrift,^ 


TopUb  Ob]eifions 
Gal. 5.6. 

a  iellar.  deju' 
ftifl.7.car.\.  §. 
K^il  lie  d^relHt  ^ 

b  ThcGicckc 
wor.i  is  nor  of 
the  paisive,  but 
of  the  midrlJc 
voice,  as  it  sin 
maiiy  other  pla- 
ces of  Scripture. 
Gal.T.6. 
Rum. 7.5. 
3  Co^.i..l^.• 
In  the  Intttltnear, 
iAxh  which  iset- 
fcduall:  Tag. 
«j«,  working  by 
love.  And  fj 
Bellarmine  hm. 
felfe,  73*  Jtiiif. 
lib. I.  rap. 1 5,  e^ 
nil  1.  rap.  8.  ir 
lili.x.  Cap.  10. 
§    llludveto. 
Rhetn.  t^nnor.  in 
gal.;.6,Se(f  J. 


/'f- 


4.2 


Popijlj  ObjeBiofiS prfzemed. 


I  Cor. 13  Tj. 
Hcb.II.tf. 


?«  vhat  rtf^sSft 
charitie  dsth  ex- 
eelifaith,  and 
faith  cbaritte. 


EpheCj.iy. 


I  Chrift :  and  goeth  forth  by  charitie,  whereby  as  a  working 
hand  it  perforn:^€th  all  duties  commanded  of  Godj  to  the 
gloric  and  honour  of  God. 

What  if  love  be  the  moft  excellent  of  all  graces  in  (bmc 
relpedis  ?  doth  it  thence  foilow>that  it  is  the  lite  of  faith  ? 
By  the  fjme  reafon  wee  may  argue ,  whatfoever  is  not  of 
faith  isfiftxe,  is  of  no  efteeme  or  account  with  God  :  there- 
fore faith  is  the  forme  of  all  other  graces.  It  followeth 
not,  that  becaufe  the  eye  is  a  more  excellent  member  than 
the  footj  therefore  the  eye  is  the  foule  and  \i^c  of  the  foot  ; 
no  more  doth  it,  that  bccaufe  charitie  is  a  more  excellent 
gift  than  faith,  therefore  it  fhould  be  the  life  and  fbule 
of  faith. 

Faith  and  love  refpedlivcly  have  the  preferment  each  of 
other.  In  relpe<5l  of  fpirituall  life  faith  is  the  moft  necef- 
farie,  upon  which  love  hath  neceffarie  dependance;  but 
otherwife  to  love  is  more  than  tobelceve,  becaufe  it  ne- 
ceffarily  includes  beleefe :  as  to  tafte  meat  inrefpeil:  o^li^Cy 
is  of  more  ufethan  to  love  it,though  ablblutely  to  love  meat 
be  more  than  to  tafte  it,  becaufe  it  prefuppofcth  tafte.  If 
I  wee  reipeft  latitude  of  ufe,  charitie  is  more  excellent  than 
/  faith,  as  which  is  extended  everie  way  to  God  and  men, 
and  by  which  all  the  gifts  of  God  which  he  beftovveth  upon 
us,  are  made  profitable  to  other  men:  But  if  wee  confider 
man  privately  in  himlelfe,and  for  his  ovvne  u(e,faith  is  more 
excellent  than  charitie,  as  whereby  wee  are  radically  united 
unto  Chrift,and  wherein  ftandeth  originally  our  fellowfhip 
and  communion  with  him;  by  which  Chrift  dwelleth  in 
our  hearts,  and  wee  receive  the  promifed  fpirit ;  into  which 
as  an  hand,  Godpntteth  all  the  riches  of  his  grace  for  our 
lalvation,  and  by  which  all  ails  of  grace  are  quickened  ;  we 
feed  upon  Chrift  fortheftrengtheningand  nouridimentof 
the  (bu!e,and  whatfoever  is  in  us  is  commended  unto  God. 
Ifwerefped  length  of  time  and  continuance*  charitie  is  to 
bee  preferred  before  faith.  For  faith  is  but  for  a  time,  and 
whenthepromifeof  God  (which  is  the  matter  and  lubje6l 
of  it)  (hail  bee  fully  accompliftied,  the  ufe  of  it  iliall  ceale. 

When 


Fopifh  ObjeBiQns  prevented. 


43 


When  faith  paflcth  incoan  open  knowledge  and  revealed 
fight  of  the  thing  prelent,  itchangeth  both  his  nature  and 
kind.  But  love  abidech  for  ever,  and  fhall  continue  be- 
twixt God  and  us  an  everlafting  bond :  It  fhall  bee  greater 
and  morevehemenr,  but  fhall  Hill  retaine  the  fame  nature 
and  fubrtance,  albeit  Ibme  works  which  now  it  exercileth 
fiiall  ccafe.  The  end  of  our  faith  is  charitie  :  but  the  foun- 
dationand  direderof  love  is  faith :  faith  alfo  is  the  viilorie 
whereby  we  overcome  the  wor  Id.  To  fave  a  man  fa  ith  i  s  the 
greater:  in  man  being  faved  love  is  the  greater.  Till  faith 
hath  finifhed  our  f^lvation,  lovemuft  yceld  to  faith  :  when 
faith  hath  fully  faved  us,  it  Qiall  have  an  end,for  knowledge 
of  fight  takes  away  faith ;  but  love  fliall  abide  for  ever.  Ab- 
(blutely  love  is  greater  than  faith,  but  when  we  fpeake  of  the 
meanesof  Juftification,  and  attainementof  thatfalvation, 
whereto  perfect  charitie  and  righteoufnefle  doth  belong, 
then  faith  muft  be  preferred  as  the  greater  and  more  excel- 
lent, faith onely  beareth  fway  therein:  and  this  flcnder 
and  weake  charitie  which  wee  have,  i?>  ot  no  etfeit  or  mo- 
ment thereunto. 

When  the  Apof^Ie  makes  comparifon  htx.m\tthe  l?ody 
withottt  thefpirit,  ^nd  faith  without  workj,conc\ii6iDC,  that 
they  arc  both  dead,  hee  cannot  bee  thought  to  make  love 
the foule  of  faith.  For  hee  Ipeakes  not  ofinternali  chari- 
tie, which  lodgeth  in  the  heart,  but  of  extcrnall  works, 
which  are  outwardly  vifible  and  apparent  unto  m.en,  and 
cannot  bee  the  life,  but  are  the  fruits  and  cfl^eds  of  faith. 
For  that  which  is  without  and  externall ,  cannot  bee  the 
lifcor  (bule  of  that  which  is  within  and  internall ;  nay,  it 
felfe  hath  from  within  all  the  life  that  it  hath  ;  and  if  it  re- 
ceive not  life  from  within,  it  is  altogether  dead.  Works 
therefore  being  outward,  andifTuing  from  within,  if  they 
bee  true,  can  in  no  good  conGrudlion  bee  faid  to  bee  the  life 
of  faith  which  is  vvithin,  butto  bctheiffuesand  produdi- 
ons  of  faith  from  which  they  fpring.  Befides,  the  word 
ufed  by  the  Apoftle  doth  fignifie  the  breath,  and  (o  the 
comparifon  runneth  plaine ;  As  the  bodyof  a  living  crea- 
ture. 


Jamc5  J.j<?. 

J  AC  1  1 6. 


f' 


44 


James  i.ai. 
Rhtm.  %Amot»  in 
toe. 


Popifh  Ob  jettons  prevented. 


ture,  if  it  breath  not,  is  dead  :  fo  faith,  if  it  bring  forth  no 
works,  is  dead :  For  breathing  is  an  effe6l  of  a  living  body, 
and  working  is  the  proper  effeft  of  a  living  faith.  If  wee 
Ipeake  of  faith,  as  it  is  outwardly  profeflcd to  men,  works 
which  may  bee  difcerned  by  the  eyes  of  men,  not  charitie 
which  is  thcinward  aft'edionofthe  heart ,are  they  that  give 
name,  and  gaine  credit  to  profefTion.  Charitie  is  an  hand 
orinftrument  whereby  faith  worketh :  works  are  fruits,  ef- 
^tSts,  demonfirations  of  the  inward  life  of  faith:  and  that 
which  gives  name  and  being  to  our  externallprofeflion,  is  a 
pure ,  blamelefle,  upright  converfation ,  fruitfull  in  good 
works.  If  we  {peake  of  faith,  a  dead  faith  maybe  compared 
to  a  dead  body,  altogether  voyd  of  fpirituall  quickening : 
but  a  lively  faith  cannot  fitly  be  refembled  to  a  living  body, 
but  rather  to  the  life  of  the  body :  becaufe  faith  is  not  that 
which  is  quickened  by  charitie,  or  the  works  ofcharitie.bnt 
that  which  quickeneth.  Faith  is  the  firft  wheele  in  the  clock 
that  moveth  all  the  refl :  Faith  f^irreth  up,  and  dire6>eth  all 
other  graces  of  the  foule  in  their  operations,  whofe  ftrength 
cncreafeth  according  to  the  lively-hood,  vigour,  and  cn- 
creafe  of  faith. 

How  then  faith  the  Apoftle,  That  faith  is  ^erfeUed  by 
Kvorks  ?  As  wee  judge  of  the  caufe  by  the  effects,  and  by 
the  proportion  of  the  efte6f  s,  the  efificacie  and  force  of  the 
caufe  may  feeme  to  bee  encreafedor  diminiiTied.  Everie 
thing  is  acknowledged  to  bee  perfect  when  it  worketh, 
and  is  efteemed  (o  much  the  more  perfefJ-,  by  how  much 
the  more  it  worketh ;  as  wee  fay  the  goodnefleofa  tree  h 
perfe6V,  when  it  hath  brought  forth  fome  excellent  good 
fruir.  ThusPhilofophers  teach,  that  the  forme  is  not  per- 
fedt,  whenitis  confidered  asthefirft  a6t,  but  when  it  is 
taken  as  the  fecond  aft:  for  by  working  it  putteth  forth 
its  force,  and  declareth  it  felfe.  And  fb faith  is,  perfefted  by 
works ,  not  that  the  nature  of  faith  receiveth  comple- 
ment or  pcrfe!^Hon  from  works,  but  becaufe  it  doth  de- 
clare and  manifert  it  felfe  by  love  and  good  works,  and  is 
efteemed  by  ib  much  the  more  perfeft,  as  the  works  pro- 
duced 


Jufltfying  Faith  Cdnnot  be  without  Love, 


45 


duccd  arc  the  more  excellent.  Yea,  as  the  exercile  of  out- 
ward members  increalcth  internall  vigour  and  Ilrengch, 
and  refreflicth  the  Ipirits  by  which  wee  move ;  fo  doth 
the  cxercife  of  grace  andvertue  rightly  imployed  perfect 
faith,  not  imparting  the  perfediion  of  works  unto  it,  but 
ftirringup,  exercifing,  and  intending  its  owne  vigour  and 
perfe6Uon.  Senfeandmotionistheeffecfl-,  notthecauleof 
life  in  the  body ;  but  yet  the  body  without  them  is  dead, 
andperfei^edbythem.  Works  are  the  cftedts,  not  the  life 
offairh  ;but  faith  vviihout  works  is  dead,and  by  works  it  is 
perfe6led. 

§.  5.  Thereisafained  and  dead  faith ;  a  faith  whereby 
the  Devils  arc  laid  tobeleeve,  and  fuch  whofe  hearts  arc  j  > 
not  upright :  a  faith  which  refteth  barely  in  the  under- 
ftanding,  orwhichfleightly  affedteth  the  heart,  but  is  not 
rooted,  beares  not  foveraigntie ;  a  faith  fubordinate  to 
vainc  glorie,  or  covetous  defires,  which  the  world  deHroy- 
eth:  and  this  faith,  as  it  is  inetfesSluall  to  feafon  the  aftc- 
d^ionsthorowout,  and  incite  to  the  lincere  uni forme  a6>s 
of  love,  ib  it  is  unavaileable  to  Juftiflcation.  There  is  a 
faith  unfained,  well-rooted,  ibveraigne,  whereby  wee  be- 
leeve  to  righteoufnefle,  by  which  the  heart  is  purified,  and 
Chrift  droelleth  in  lu  :  which  is  the  v/Horie,  rpherebj  wee 
overcome  the  world:  and  xh\s  faith  worketh  by  lovd  and 
cannot  but  worke.  Heethat  beleeveth  in  this  Ibrt  loveth 
freely,  and  cannot  bwt  love,  not  through  defe61:of  libertie, 
but  through  the  nature  of  faith,  exciting  the  beleeverto 
will  to  love,  not  to  love  if  hee  will.  Faith  and  love  confi- 
dered,  ashabits  of  the  renewed  foule,  and  branches  of  in- 
herent holineffe,  have  their  originall  from  the  Spirit  of  re- 
generation, and  bee  diftin6l  graces  infufed  together.  The 
deeds  of  charitie  are  the  proper  a(fls  or  exercifes  of  the 
grace  of  charitie,  from  which  they  iilue,  as  branches  from 
the  ftcck,  and  fruit  from  the  tree :  nw  can  wee  properly 
lay,  that  fuch  works  flow  from  faith,  as  the  fruit  doth 
from  the  root;  feeing  charitie  is  no  branch  of  faith,  but  a 
diftin6>  grace  of  the  renewing  Spirit,  which  beareth  its 

proper 


§   ?. 


Jam.: 


Ait,  8  21. 
Luk.8.1}. 


I  TitTTT.^. 

AAs  15.9. 
Gal.3-;o. 
ijoh.5.4. 

yuffijyt'i^  faith 
cannot  be  jfttbout 
live. 


Tar  dtJM. 
Ii0.[.  cap.i^. 


■l-f 


46 


JujUfytng  Faith  cannot  be  without  Love* 


jjoh.y.i. 

Joh.i.i2.i3. 
1  Cor.  5. 17. 


*  Gal. 110. 
Rom.ii  17. 

a  i3oh4.T5. 

b  Romi.i7t 
Joh.j  36.&^.40. 


c  l]oh.2.c,IO. 


i]oh.4.i9. 


proper  and  diftin6l  fruit.  Butfuch  ad^s  are  faidto  be  of 
faitti,  becaule  the  dod^rine  of  faitii  enjoyneth  them ,  the 
vertue  of  faith  inclines  the  Ibule  unto  them,  movethchari- 
tie  unto  the  exercife  of  them,  and  diredteth  and  quickeneth 
the  a6ls  themfelves,  withoutwhich  they  would  belivclefle 
and  out  of  fquare.  Faith  doth  beget  love ,  not  that  one 
habit  doth  beget  another,  but  that  faith  doth  Qxcko.  men 
to  the  works  of  charitie.  Thus  the  habits  of  faith  and 
love  be  coupled  ininfufion;  the  exercife  of  faith  and  love 
bee  inleparably  conjoyned  i  and  the  adls  of  love  bee  the  ef- 
fects of  faith. 

Everie  one  that  hleeveth  u  borne  of  God;  he  that  is  in- 
grafted into  Cnrift  by  faith  is  a  netp  creature,  and  made 
partaker  of  the  divine  nature  :  But  hee  that  is  borne  of 
God,  is  endued  with  the  grace  of  love.  The  lively  mem- 
bers of  Chrift  Jefus,  which  receive  from  him  the  fap  of 
grace,  cannot  be  utterly  deftitute  of  true  charitie:  *  But  all 
true  Beleevers  are  living  members  of  Chrift  Jefus.  a  Hee 
that  beleeveth,  abideth  in  God,  and  God  in  him :  but  in 
whom  God  abideth,  in  him  is  love,  b  Everie  true  Beleever 
doth  live  Ipiritually,  and  where  true  faith  is,  there  is  true 
life :  but  hee  that  lives  fpiritually,  and  is  tranflated  from 
death  to  life,  is  alfo  endued  with  the  grace  of  love.  He  that 
beleeveth  is  in  the  light ,  and  abideth  therein :  ^  but  no 
man  isin  the  light,  who  loveth  not.  Faith  and  Hope  be  in- 
feparable :  but  it  cannot  bee,  but  wee  lliould  love  thofe 
things,  which  wee  already  know,  embrace,  tafte,  and  hope 
to  be  fingularly  good.  Faith  receiveth  and  refteth  upon  the 
mercieofGod,  as  ourfoveraigneGood:  butitisnotpoffi- 
ble  for  a  man  truly  to  know  and  embrace  the  chiefefl  good, 
and  yet  to  with-'hold  affcdlion  from  the  love  of  it.  It  i^ 
faith,  which  ktting  God  before  us  fuch  an  one  as  he  is^  wife, 
mightie,  jul^,  merciftill,  loving  and  gracious  towards  us,  en- 
amoureth  ourhearts,  and  iHrreth  in  us  af^'edionscorrefpon- 
dent  to  his  grace  :  neither  is  there  anyfparke  of  true  love, 
which  is  not  kindled  bythismeanes.  Wee  love  God,  be- 
caufe  he  loveth  usfirjl :  but  nothing  can  feafon  andaffe6l 

the 


Jtifiif)tffg  P^iih  cannot  be  irnhout  L^ve, 


47 


the  heart,  with  the  fericus  confideration,  and  (\veet  tafte  of 
Gods  mercie  and  favour,  but  faith  onely.  In  nature  wee  fee 
nothing  can  mcveindehre  tothis  or  that,  tiilhrftit  hath- 
apprehended  it  lovely ;  and  it  cannot  but  move,  when  it 
hach  foundlytafledof  itsgoodneile:  So  our  afiedions  can- 
not in  love  move  to,  and  unite  thcmfclves  with  God,  till  by 
faith weknovv him  lobc  an  amiable  cbjcci  forus  fmners  to 
embrace;  and  when  we  have  (bund  ly  and  truly  rafted  how  i 
good  and  gracious  tlie  Lord  is,  wee  cannot  but  love  and  af-  ! 
fed  him  entirely.  Faith  is  an  obfequious  and  afiiancedac-  \ 
knowledgement  of  the  truth  of  Gcds  promilcs :  but  hee  j 
that  doth  after  that  manner  acknowledge  thetruthofGod  i 
in  Chrift,  isbothinwardlyaftecicd  towards  God,  and  de-  I 
firous  to  put  forth  the  lam.e  in  all  duties  of  holinefleand  I 
righteoufnefle.  Th^dodinnt  of  grace,  which  hi>:gethfal-  '  Tim?  i.n.tj. 
vatisMiteacheth  tu  to  deny  UKgodlineJJe  and  worldly  lufis,  ' 
andto  live  godly  ■>  juftly^  andjoberly  in  this  frefent  world:  , 
which  being  embraced  by  faith,  doth  kaven  evenc  facultie, 
and  feafbn  it  in  fuch  forr,  as  the  feverall  aftedions  will  rea- 
dily move  at  the  command  of  faith. 

Whenthe  Apoftle  feparatesfiith  and  love,  faying,  If  I 
had  allfaithifothat  Icofild  remove  moHntaines,  and  had 
not  love,  itfrofteth  mee  nothing :  hee  fpeakes  of  that  per- 
fA-afion  and  confidence  m  the  extraordinarie  promiles  of 
God,  whereby  the  parties  endued  therewith,  were  enabled 
to  doe  miracles.  And  the  word,  AlU  noteth  manifeftly  the 
higheft  degree  of  doing  miracles.  That  whereas  ibmehad 
faith  to  doe  hvcit  miracles,  and  not  other  ibm.e :  the  A- 
poftle  flieweth ,  that  if  hee  had  fuch  a  miraculous  faith, 
that  he  could  doe  all  miracles,and  have  not  love,it  were  no- 
thing. This  iscleare,  in  that  the  Apoftle  reckcneth  faith 
miraculous  amongft  the  gifts  of  the  Spirit,  in  the  prece- 
dcntChapter:  and  by  the  example  or  inftance  of  moving 
mountsines,  which  our  Saviour  notethas  amafter-miracle 
amongfl:  others.  He  faith,  If  I  had  Allknowledge,  notun- 
derlhndingit  (imply  and  abfolutely,  of  all  kinds  of  know- 
ledge ^  but  of  the  gift  of  knowledge  :  and  lb  by,  ^U  faith, 

hee 


Popijh  ob^c!Iioni 
prevented. 
I  Ccr.:5.2. 
BtUar.  dlJ»Hrf. 
lib  I   cafi.iu 
RliiTn  ^nnot.  in 


I  Cor. 11. 9. 
I  Cor.Tj.i. 
Mwt'th  1710. 
Luk.T7  (-. 

I  Crr.IJ.2. 

^fllar.dej.tjlif. 
1.6  r.cafi.i    . 
Seel.  T)4inde. 


(■•f- 


48 


leJUr.deJufiif- 
lib.i.cap.i-i- 


a  So'^tlUrmne 
feemestodif- 
putCi  nbi/upra  §  ■ 


J  unifying  Faah  cannot  be  without  Love, 

hce  meaneth  not  all  kinds  of  faith,  but  all  faith  of  miracles. 
\  Univerfall  propofitions  mnft  bee  limited  according  to  the 
iiibjedl:  matter  jUnlefle  we  will  runinto  manifold  abfurdities. 
And  that  the  faith  hee  fpeaketh  of  was  not  fitly  qualified  to 
Juftification,  appeareth  in  this,  that  it  did  not  command, 
but  rather  was  fubordinate  to  their  vaine-glorious  humour. 
Lookeas  their  confidence  was  greater  in  the  power  and  cx- 
traordinarie  promifes  of  God,  the  more  were  they  puffed 
up,  boafting  in  themfelves,  infulting  over  their  brethren : 
whereas,  if  their  affiance  had  beene  well  iettlcdupon  the 
mercie  of  God  in  Chrift,  and  had  rightly  fpread  it  felfe  to 
the  feverall  branches  of  holy  truth ;  it  would  have  cnclined, 
yea.  coiiftrained  them  to  ferve  one  another  in  Iove,and  bend 
their  gifts  to  the  edification  of  theirbrethren;  which,  whi- 
le!! they  doe  not,  bur  rather  turne  their  gifts  to  thefervice 
of  their  lufts,  and  the  dishonour  of  God,  it  is  evident  they 
beleeved  nor  unto  righteoufnefie. 

But  by  what  faith  fliould  thele  Coriftthianshzve  come 
to  know,  and  rightly  to  value  Chriftian  love?  The  fame 
by  which  they  wrought  wonders,  or  fbme  other?  If  the 
fame,  a  then  faith  is  true,  though  feparated  from  love.  If 
fome other,  the  Apoftlein  all  congruitie  fhould  firft  have 
exhorted  them  to  embrace  it ;  otherwife  bee  had  commen- 
ded thebeautieof  Chriftian  love  but  unto  blind  men.  Be- 
fides,  if  it  bee  fome  other ,  then  by  that  grace  of  faith, 
whereby  they  refted  upon  the  extraordinarie  promife  and 
power  of  God,  they  had  never  beene  able  to  difcerne  be- 
twixt good  and  evill,  orto  behold  the  worth  anddignitie 
of  Chriftian  love  and  kindnefte,  though  never  {0  well  roo- 
ted in  their  hearts.  To  this  queftion  it  is  direflly  anfwe- 
red ,  That  the  exercife  of  love  was  to  bee  raifed  in  thefe 
Corinthians  hearts  by  faith,  for  common  efTence  and  qua- 
lities the  fame  with  that  whereby  they  wrought  miracles; 
but  by  the  fame  faith  rightly  fet,  deeply  rooted ,  taking 
better  in  the  heart,  diffufing  its  vcrtue  into  the  feverall  fa-: 
culties ,  fprcading  it  felfe  uniformely  unto  the  particular 
branches  of  Chriftian  duties,  diredling  the  affed^ions  untol 

(pirituall! 


Jf^flifying  Faith  cannot  he  without  Love. 


4P 


fpirituall  obje6^s,  and  fixing  them  fafteft  upon  ftjch  as  it 
adjiidgech  be(l ,  and  moft  cfteduall  to  the  edifying  of 
themlelves  and  others.     In  jufiifying  faith  two  things 
are  to  bee  confidered ;  the  common  nature  or  fubftance, 
and  the  fpecificall  nature,  plantation  and  Ibveraigntie.  For 
faith  hirtoricall  and  jiiftifying  agree  in  this,  that  both  the 
one  and  the  other  is  an  aflent  to  divine  truths,  grounded 
upon  the  authoritie  of  therevealer:  Faith  temporarie  and 
juftifying  agree  in  this,  that  they  receive  the  Word,  and 
reft  upon  the  mercies  of  God:  but  in  radication,  Ibve- 
raigntie,  and  working,  and  fo  in  fpeciall  nature,  faving  faith 
diftereih  from  other  kinds.  The  leed  which  fell  by  the  high 
vvay  fide,  in  ftonyground,  among  thornes,and  in  good  (bile, 
'  was  one  and  the  iame :  and  in  moft  of  thefe  grounds  it 
tooke,  not  alike  in  all,  kindly  in  the  good  ibyle  alone.  The 
common  nature  of  faith  is  to  receive  the  Word ;  which 
(ome  receive  by  bare  aflent  of  underftanding ;  others  by 
Height  and  fuperficiall  confidence  which  vanidieth  away : 
hut  the  doibine  of  life  taketh  kindly  in  the  honeft  and 
good  heart,  which  embraceth  it  Ibundly  with  unfained  and 
well-iooted  affiance.  Juftifying  faith  is  difcerned  fi-om  the 
other  kinds,  not  by  this,  that  it  receiveth  the  promifes 
which  they  doe  not :  but  it  receiveth  them  in  another 
manner  and  degree,  with  firmer  radication  in  the  heart, 
which  is  the  feat  of  the  affe£lions,that  it  might  fealbn  them, 
and  fubje(^  earthly  defircs  to  the  afteilation  of  heavenly 
things. 

Amongft  thechiefc  Rulers  of  the  Jo»^/,  many  beleeved 
itt  C/jr//?, faith  the  Evangelift,  ivhoyet  confejfed  him  not,  be- 
canfe  of  the  phariJceSi  lejl  thej/  fhoHldbe  cafi  out  of  the  Sy- 
nagogue. But  John  fometime  following  the  Hebrew  phrafe 
nleth  the  terme  ofheleeving  in C^rifi;for  heleeving  Chrijl\ 
*t  plying  it  to  them,  who  by  the  miracles  of  Chrift,  and 
his  manifeft  declaration  of  the  truth ,  were  convi6^cd  in 
confcienccto  acknowledge  him  to  bee  of  God,  or  did  bc- 
leeve  in  him  for  a  time,  but  did  not  in  (inceritie  fubmit 
themfelves  unto  him.  And  thus  it  might  bee  laid  of  ibmc 

E  of 


Joh  12.42. 
itttar.  0/bJ?,/, 


Joh.j.sj.n. 


/-f 


50 


Joh.ii.43« 
Joh.J.44. 


ijoh.4.15. 
1  Job.J.4. 


Juftifying  Faith  cmmt  he  without  Love. 


J0h.3.5.and  7. 
50,51,  audi?. 3 8. 
Luk,7  3.yr. 

70,71. 


of  thole  chiefe  Rulers,  that  they  beleeved  in  Chrift,  that 
is,  were  perivvaded  in  their  minds  that  hee  fpakc  the  truth, 
but  yet  preferring  their  credit  and  reputation  with  men, 
gave  no  regard  unto  it.  The  verie  reafon  which  the  Evan- 
gelift  gives,  why  they  did  not  confefle  Chrift,  makes  it 
manifeft,  that  their  faith  was  not  true  and  lively  rooted  in 
the  heart.  For  (faith  he)  they  /ovedthepraife  of  men  more 
tkanthefraifeofGod:  whichwhofo  doth,  hisfaithisnot 
become  fuch  as  layes  fure  hold  on  the  promifes  of  life.  How 
canyee  heleeve,vphich  receive  konour  one  of  nnotheri  and 
feekjnot  the  ho}70Hr  which  commsth  from  Godonely  ?  They 
might  have  Ibme beginnings  and  difpofitions  to  true  faith, 
but  verie  weake  and  feeble ;  and  they  might  bee  endued 
with  fbme  degree  of  love,  but  weake  and  feeble  as  their 
faith  was.  Their  hith  and  love  was  too  much  tyed  and 
entangled  in  the  nets  and  fnares  of  carnal]  refpe61:s :  bur,ad- 
mittine  the  leaft  degree  of  faith,  there  is  no  ground  toaf- 
firme  they  had  no  love.  Indeed p^r/<ff?  love  cafieth  out  all 
feare,  and  ^zxkSt faith  overcommeth  theworldy  and  bree- 
deth  perfect  love :  but  there  is  a  beginning offaith  and  love, 
which  being  yet  little  and  weake,  and  having  not  as  yet 
over-maftereu  all  worldly  and  carnall  refpeds ,  is  for  a 
time  timorous  and  fearefullto  confefle  Chrift,  but  grow- 
ethto  ftrength  by  little  and  little,  till  it  refolve  to  cleave 
to  him  with  lofle  of  all  other  things.  Such  was  the  faith 
of  Nicodemm  ,  and  Jofe^h  of  Arimathea  ,  yea  j  of  the 
Apoftles  themfelves,  Peter  not  excepted,  who  were  ever 
and  anon  affrighted,  andathislaftfuft'erings,  fome  denied, 
all  forlboke  our  Saviour  and  fled.  And  thus  it  may  bee 
thefe  Rulers  beleeved,  but  their  faith  was  verie  weake,  and 
the  love  was  according  to  their  faith ;  till  encreafe  of 
faith  brought  forth  further  ftrength  of  love,  and  they  had 
learned  by  the  ftrength  of  faith  and  love  to  preferre  the 
fervice  of  Chrift  before  all  the  glorie  of  the  world,  and 
to  adhere  to  the  glorie  that  comes  from  God  alone,  asfb 
much  better  than  that  wee  receive  of  men,  that  the  latter 
did  feeme  as  nothing  in  comparilbn  of  the  former.  That 

which 


Jufiifjing  Faith  cannot  he  without  Love. 


51 


which  is  added  by  the  Evangelift-,  that  they  durft  not  con- 
fefle  him,  doth  no  more  derogate  from  their  love,  than 
from  their  faith  ;  for  if  they  had  beleeved  firmely  with 
tlie  heart  uMto  righteoHfnejfe,  they  had  cenfejfed  with  the 
mouth  unto  fatvation :  and  in  that  they  confeflTednot  the 
truth  with  their  mouths ,  it  argueth  they  beleeved  but 
weakly  with  their  hearts.  For  the  faith  which  bringeth 
forth  fincere  confeflion  is  coupled  with  love ,  but  con- 
fcffion  it  felfe  is  an  effe(5l  of  faith.  /  beleeved ,  and 
therefore  have  I  Jpoke» :  vfce  alfo  beleeve^  and  therefore 
Jpeake. 

The  man  that  came  to  the  wedding,  not  having  on  the 
wedding  garment ,  had  faith  ( as  our  Adverfaries  obje6>) 
but  wanted  charitie  and  gooa  works.    How  may  it  ap- 
peare  that  hee  had  faith  ?  Foriboth,  becaufe  hee  was  ad- 
mitted to  that  Table,  which  are  the  Sacraments.  Not  to 
queftion  that  expofition  for  the  prefenr,  was  no  man  ever 
admitted  to  the  Sacraments,  that  made  fhew  of  faith, 
when  indeed  hee  had  none?  Many  hypocrites  are  in  the 
Church ,  that  have  not  fo  much  as  a  perfwafion  of  the 
tnith  of  the  Scripture,  and  fo  abfolutely  want  their  mar- 
riage garment.  And  men  are  admitted  to  the  Sacrament 
by  men,  and  admitted  for  profefsion  of  faith,  when  they 
that  admit  them  cannot  tell  whether  they  have  faith  or 
not.  For  many  pretend  that  which  is  not  in  them,  and 
with  the  mouth  make  profefsion  of  faith ,  when  their 
heart  is  barren  and  emptie  of  grace.  Further,  this  man 
might  aflent  unto  truths  divine,  and  acknowledge  them 
as  true,  but  not  from  a  found  and  fincere  ground;  or  hee 
might  aflent  unto  the  Articles  of  Chriftian  Faith  as  true 
and  good,  whileft  confidered  onely  in  themfelves,  without 
oppofition  of  fuch  matters  as  hee  much  valued  :  and  fuch 
beleefe  being  unfound  ,  {hallow ,  fubordinate  to  earthly^ 
pleafures  or  commodities,  may  bee  and  is  (eparated  from 
love ;  JMtit  is  not  that  faith  wee  fpeakeof.  The  generall 
meaning  of  the  Parable  feemes  to  bee  nom.ore  but  this, 
that  many  men  thruft  into  the  Church,  who,  when  the  day 

E  2  of 


Rom.io  lo. 


I  Cor.4.T3. 


Nfatth-is.Ti. 

"SeSar ,  ul/i  fupr. 


1-^' 


5* 


J**Pfiing  Faith  cannot  be  without  Love. 


Gal.  5. 6. 


Rom. 1 3.14. 
Gal  3.2tfji7. 


Col.}.  9,10.^ 
Ephef.4.x4. 
Col.Jit. 
Ephcl'.<5. 15,16. 


Matth.j^Tr. 
,  JJA«».  ^nnot.  in 


of  triall  comcsi  will  bee  found  to  have  nointercft  to  the 
Kingdcme  of  Heaven.  What  if  the  wedding  garment  bee 
cliaritie?  this  doth  hurt  us  nothing,  unlefle  it  could  bee 
proved,  (which  can  never  bee)  that  this  man  had  juftifying 
faith.  Forhee  wanted  the  wedding  garment,  charitie,  be- 
caufeheci^anted faith:  andifheehad  beene endued  with 
the  one  i  fe.  faith  i  hee  fhould  alio  have  had  the  other, 
fc.  love  :  far  faith  worketh  by  love.  But  the  wedding  gar- 
ment is  as  well  faith  as  love.  It  is  indeed  Chrift  Jeliis  him- 
felfe  (of  whom  the  Apoftlc  faith)  T^utyee  on  the  Lor  A  Je- 
fpu.  Chrift  (as  hee  is  a  Juftifier  of  us  from  finne,  and  a 
San<5lifier  of  us  from  the  power  of  finne,  rinfing  away  by 
the  water  of  his  Spirit,  that  ftaine  of  corruption  defiling 
our  nature)  is  that  wedding  garment :  and  fo  putting  on 
Chrift,  wee  put  on  the  new  man,  which  according  to  god  is 
created  if*  right eonfnejfe  and  true  holinejfe :  Now  wee  put 
on  ChrirtjWhen  we  doe  by  an  affianced  knowledge,  and  by 
confequent  affc6lions  come  more  and  more  to  bee  united 
with  him.  The  firft  and  radicall  union  is  made  by  faith  on- 
ly, which  layeth  hold  on  God  in  Chrift,  as  our  merciful] 
God,  whofe  anger  before  threatned  us  for  fin.  Thefecon- 
darie  union,  whereby  the  foule  cleaveth  more  and  more 
umo  Godjis  by  meanes  of  the  affedlions ;  by  love  our  hearts 
cleave  unto  him,  by  hope,  joy,  high  eftimation  of  him : 
whom  though  we  havenotfccne,welove:  but  this  prefup- 
pofeth  the  former. 

The  five  foolifh  Virgins  (they  fay)  were  part  of  the 
Kingdome  of  God ,  and  had  faith,  but  wanted  works. 
They  were  indeed  part  of  the  Kingdome  in  profeflion, 
but  not  in  ele6i:ion.  They  had  a  forme  or  fliew  of  faith, 
but  true  juftrfying  faith  they  never  knew.  And  as  their 
faith  was,  fuch  were  their  works.  For  it  appeareth  that 
they  had  oylc  in  their  hmps,  and  that  their  lamps  were 
lighted ,  although  by  long  tarrying  of  the  Bridegroome, 
they  were  afterwards  quenched.  Our  Adverfaries  teach, 
thatthefe  Virgins  had  afpired  to  more  thanordinarie  per- 
fc(5lion  in  the  Church:  and  bad  they  gotten  this  without 
_^___ 'good 


J"fl^f)^^X  ^^"^  Cdfinot  bevnthout  Love, 

good  works  ?  It  is  a  ftrange  pcrfedion  that  can  be  attained 
without  alJ  good  deeds  IpiritualJ  orcorporall.  But  they 
continued  not  (they  will  fay)  in  their  former  charitic,  when 
yet  they  prefumed  (trongly  ontheafTuranceoftheirfalva- 
tion,as  js  apparent  by  their  confident  demanding  to  be  let 
in:  for  they  laid,  Lord,  Lord,  of  en  unto  tu.  Indeed  they 
never  had  either  true  faith  or  love,  and  therefore  could  not 
continue  therein.  For  if  ever  they  hadbeene  partakers  of 
either  in  truth,they  would  have  perfevered  in  both  unto  the 
end  :  and  where  the  one  it  utterly  wanting,  the  other  never 
was.  Their  carneft  demanding  to  be  let  in,  fhewes  rather 
their  defire  than  their  hope  :  and  yet  how  many  hope  pre- 
fumptuoufly  without  true  faith  in  Chrift  ?  Faith  is  groun- 
ded upon  the  word  of  God,  and  the  thing  which  itbelee- 
veth,  is  that  which  the  Lord  hathfaid.  Whatfoever  wee 
conceiveof  God  befidcs his  Word,  it  is  imagination,  opi- 
nion, prefumption,but  faith  it  is  not.  But  the  word  of  God 
denounceth  deftrU(5^ion  to  the  workers  of  iniquitie,  to  the 
fruitlefle  and  barren  fig-tree :  how  can  it  then  be  laid,  that 
they  that  workc  iniquitie,  that  bring  forth  no  ^ood  fruit, 
have  faith  to  beleeve  afluredly  that  they  fiiall  bee  laved  ? 
The  Apoftle  makes  mention  of  fbme,  who  profeflcd  that 
they  knew  God^  but  were  indeed  nnbeleevers,  as  the  Vulgar 
reads  it.  And  wee  know  it  is  often  threatned  in  the  Pro- 
phets, that  the  wicked  (hall cry, and  not  be  heard:  call  in 
feare,  but  not  -in  faith :  for  they  that  in  faith  call  upon  the 
hame  of  the  Lord  fhall  be  faved. 

But  the  Apoftle  J^wr-f  (as  they  object)  fuppoleth  plain- 
ly, that  a  man  may  have  faith  without  good  works ,  that 
is,  without  charitie,  laying  :  iFhat  Jhall  it  pro/it,  if  a  man 
fay  he  hathfaith,and  hath  no  workj  ?  (^an  faith  fave  him  f 
Wherein  they  take  for  granted  what  can  never  bee  pro- 
ved, that  the  Apoftle  takes  works  for  charitie.  Doe  they 
thinke  that  they  againft  whom  the  Apoftle  writes,  would 
grant  that  they  were  without  the  love  of  God  ?  he 
Gnofiicks  were  never  lb  abftird.  But  the  queftion  was, 
whether  a  man  that  profcfled  Jefus  Chrift  to  bee  the  Savi- 
E  5  our 


^     ! 


53 


Kom.io.S,J9- 


Titus  i.i<f. 
Prov.i.ig. 


Jamrj2.i4. 
'ieUar.  ubifitfra. 


'^■ 


54 


J3m.a.i4. 


Jam. 4.18. 
Jam.2.19. 


Jam. 2  20. 


Jain.2*2o,j2, 


Heb.n.i^- 


Jam.t'i9« 


Jupfjing  Faith  cannot  be  without  Love. 


. 


lour  of  the  world,  was  not  by  this  laved,  how  lewdly 
foever  hee  demeaned  himfelfe?  And  it  is  apparent  by 
the  Text ,  tfiat  the  Apoftle  Ipeakes  of  an  hirtorical/, 
dead  faith,  a  faith  in  profefTion;  as  much  differing  from 
that  whereto  S-  Taul  afcnbeth  righteoulhcfrejas  a  live  man 
doth  from  a  dead,  or  a  body  endued  with  life  and  motion, 
from  a  painted  or  carved  image.  Therefore  hee  cr  mpares 
it  to  the  good  words  of  him  that  wiflieth  well  to  the 
poore  man,  but  doth  j-othingat  all  for  him.  As  therefore 
it  is  no  true  charitie  which  profefleth  good  will  to  help, 
and  helpeth  not :  io  it  is  no  true  faith,  which  is  fevered 
from  good  works.  To  this  tendeth  his  queftion  ,  fVhat 
avaiteth  it-,  though  a  man  faj  that  hee  hath  faith  ?  and 
his  other  demand,  5/;tf»»  me  thy  faith  ?  Theuttermofl:  hee 
extendeth  it  to  by  inftance,  is  a  meere  hi(ioricall  faith, 
ThoH  beleeveU  that  there  is  one  God.  His  purpofe  is  to 
fhewj  that  faith,  if  it  bee  truly  profeffed,  hath  taken  root 
within,  from  whence  fpringby  obedience  the  fruits  of  all 
good  works  ;  and  if  it  give  not  forth  it  KtX'i^  by  good  works^ 
it  is  a  dead,  no  true  and  living  faith.  The  men  againft 
whom  hee  difputes  did  makeprofeffionof  juftifyingfaith; 
but  the  A poflle brings  the  true,  lively,  and  working  faith  of 
c^^r-«/»^w,asoppo(itetothatidle,  de.?d,  and  breath- lefTe 
faith  profefTed  by  them  ;  and  laying,  Wat  not  Abraham  om 
Father  jufiified  by  work^,  when  hee  offered  his  Sonne  llaac 
n^on  the  altar  ^  hee  meaneth  no  more,  than  if  hee  had 
thus  fpoken :  If  tiAhraham  had  faid  (as  they  did,  whol^ 
cmptie  faith  he  difapproves)!  have  faith,buthad  not  proved 
his  fayings  true  by  his  deeds,  or  readinefTe  to  offer  up  his 
onely  Sonne  when  God  commanded  him  (for  adually  hee 
did  not  offer  him)  heehadnotbeene  jufHfied  before  God. 
Why  ?  becaufe  hee  had  not  beleeved  in  fuch  fort  as  T^aul 
meant,  when  he  faith;  "By  faith  Abraham  offered  nf  Ifaac 
when  he  was  tryed ;  which  was  the  adtof  his  faith,  as  the 
Text  exprcfly  noteth. 

Yea,  farther  to  (hew  the  vanitie  of  them  that  boafted 
of  juftifying  faith,  becaufetheyprofefTed  faith  in  God,  hee 

addeth ; 


I  J^Pfv^S,  P^^^^  cannot  be  without  Love. 

acfcfcth;  The  Devils  heleeve  alfo  attd  tremble :  fhewing, 
that  the  Devils  goe  fo  farrc  as  to  beleeve  the  truth  of  God, 
yeajfurther,  for  they  tremb'e;  and  therefore  thefjithpro- 
teHcdinword  by  thole  boafters,  cannot  bee  the  fame  with 
that  which  the  Scripture  nameth  for  a  juftifyirg  faith. 
TheycJmnorfliufP.e  this  over  by  telling  us,  that  Chrirtian 
faith,  when  it  is  naked  snd  void  of  good  works,  may  well 
bee  likened  unto  the  Devi  Is  faith  in  two  points.   Firfl,  in 
both  of  them  thcfe  is  a  perfefV  knowledge  of  all  things  re- 
vealed. Secondly,  this  knowledge  fliall  not  fteadthem  a- 
nyvvhit.  But  in  many  things  they  differ  ;  but  this  one  is 
principall,  That  Chriftians,  ontof  agodlyand  devout  af- 
fedlion,  doe  willingly  fubmit  their  underftanding  to  the 
rules  of  faith.   But  the  Devill,againft  his  will,  beleeves 
all  that  Gcd  hath  revealed.    Thjs  \^  but  a  pooreevafion ; 
forif  they  will  heare  their  brethren  o^%hemes,  they  x.^\\ 
them  plainly,  that  Saint  J^«;<f/  doubted  not  to  call  a  dead 
faith  without  works,  the  faith  not  of  Chriftians ,  but  of 
Devils.  TheApoftle  then  doth  not  liken  Chriflian  jufti- 
fying  faith  to  the  faith  of  Devils  in  feme  points onely,  but 
proves  the  dead  faith  profefTed  by  fome,  not  to  bee  true 
and  faving  faith  indeed,  becaufe  the  Devils  beleeve  in  that 
manner.  The  firft  point  wherein  the  faith  of  Chriftians 
and  of  Devils  is  faid  to  agree,  comprehendeth  thefulneflfe 
and  perfc<5Vion  of  that  which  they  call  Catholike,  or  Chri- 
ftian  Faith,  which  confifteth  in  beleeving  all  to  bee  true 
that  God  bath  revealed.  No  more  is  there  in  <iAbrahams 
faith,  if  weeconfiderihe  a6b  of  faith,  and  nolefle  in  the 
Devill,  and  the  lame  in  everie  Catholil<c  Chriftian,  ac- 
cording to  their  dodrine.  That  which  is  added  to  fliew 
the  difference  betwixt  the  faith  of  Chriftians  and  the  faith 
of  Devils,  is  little  to  the  purpofe.  For  it  is  not  taken  from 
the  nature  of  faith  it  lelfe,  but  from  thole  things  which  to 
faith  are  meerely  accidentall.  The  godly  and  devout  af- 
fedlion,  and  willing  fubmilTionto  therules  of  faith,  which 
is  in  Chriftiars,  being  an  ail  of  charitie,  and  not  of  faith, 
dift'ercnceth  not  true  faith  in  it  felfe  from  the  faith  of  Hy- 

E  4  pocrites, 


^ 


lih.i.capty  §. 

^dtertium. 

«^  "a.againft 

Perktns  reformed 

Catholike, 

4- point,  qu. 

fVhttherfaith 

may  ht  vith'Ut 

char  i tie. 

/them,  ^nn»t.  in 

Matth.i'j.Se^.j. 


A 


f-4' 


5^ 


J  unifying  Faith  cannot  bervithout  Lovi 


'StUar.de  Jufiif. 
lil>.i.eap,\S'  §• 

pan*. 


pocritcs,  but  diftinguifhcth  faith  and  charide  from  faith 
onely.  And  thus  our  adverfaries  make  the  Devilla  Ca- 
tholike  againft  his  will.  Or  if  they  will  fay,  thr.t  true 
Chriftian  faith  doth  alwaycs  a6lually  and  necelTarily  imply 
this  godly  affe6>ion,  and  willing  fubmiffion  of  underftan- 
ding  to  the  rules  of  faith,  thenbecaufe  this  cannot  be  with- 
out charitie,  let  them  fay,  as  the  truth  is,  that  true  Chrifti- 
an  faith  cannot  be  leparated  from  love  and  good  works.  It 
is  impertinent  todifpute,  whether  the  faith  of  Devils  bee 
naturall,coa<^>,anddiflioneft ;  or  the  faith  of  wicked  men 
fupernaturall,  voluntarie,  and  honeft,  as  if  i hefe  things  ^\ • 
ftinguidied  thefaithof  ungodly  men  from  the  faith  of  De- 
vils. For  if  the  majeftieof  Gods  infallible  truth  command 
the  aflent  of  Devils  to  that  which  they  love  not,  doth  not 
the  fame  caufe  alio  prevaile  with  ungodly  men,  who  beare 
no  affedlion  to  God  or  goodnefie  ?  And  as  for  the  honelly 
or  difhonefty  of  the  a6^,  there  can  no  circumftance  bee  na- 
med, why  it  (liould  be  honeft  in  wicked  men,and  difhoneft 
inthe Devils  :  foritis  fearefully  abuled  in  both.  Andif  it 
be  granted,  that  faith  without  works  or  grace,  \^  in  men  the 
gift  of  God,  but  the  faith  of  Devils  not  fo:  this  argues  a 
difterenceonelyinthecaure,notinthe  eflencc,  nature,  or 
qualitie.  And  though  it  be  his  gift,  yet  being  without  grace 
and  charitie,  and  without  thefc  ofneceintie  as  unfruitfull 
as  the  faith  of  Devils  (both  which  our  adverfaries  grant)  it 
is  no  more  availeabJe  to  make  a  ChrilUan,  than  the  faith  of 
Devils  is. 

It  is  furtherobjefted,  if  faith  cannot  be  without  charitie, 
then  faith  alone  doth  not  juftifie.  This  followeth  not,  for 
it  is  one  thing  to  fay,  faith  alone  doth  not  juftifie,  another 
that  faith  which  juftifieth  is  not  alone.  This  latter  we  yeeld 
unto, the firft  wee  deny.  Faith  alone  doth  juftifie,  that  1?,^ 
privative lyconfidered  without  hope  or  charirie,  as  caufes 
concurring  therewith  in  juftification :  but  this  faith  caryiot 
really  be  leparated  from,  or  negatively  confidered  without 
hope  and  charitie.  For  though  it  be  true,  that  the  totall 
^aufe  of  any  thing  being  in  a6l,the  efte6>  muft  needs  follow^ 

yet 


Jujlifymg  Faith  cannot  be  mthout  Love. 

yet  from  the  totall  caufe  wee  cannot  feparate  thofe  things, 
together  with  which  it  hath  in  nature  itsexiftence  and  be- 
ing, and  without  which  it  cannot  bee  in  ait  for  the  produ-  i 
cingof  theefVciSt,  though  they  conferre  nothing  thereto:  I 
becaufethat  is  to  deny  the  being  of  it,  and  to  deftroy  the 
caufe.  The  eye  alone  Iceth,  the  eare  alone  heareth  ;  but  it 
murt  bee  a  living  eye,  and  hearing  eare,  not  feparated  froai 
the  liead,  or  broken  off  ftom  the  reft  of  the  body.  Faith  a- 
lone;u(^ifies  without  other  graces,  not  in  regard  of  their 
prefence,  but  in  regard  of  their  co-working  with  faith  to 
this  effed^  of  our  Juttification.  It  is  one  thing  to  fay,  the 
eye  is  in  the  head  without  other  len/es,  and  another  thing 
to  (ay,  the  eye  doth  lee  alone,  noother  fenfe  feeing  with  it. 
Livelyhood  is  the  qualification  of  that  faith  that  juliifieth ; 
and  works,  at  leaR  a  preparation  and  promptitude  of  heart 
to  good  works.is  an  effect  of  faith,  as  immediate  as  Juftifi- 
cation.  Sotheniaith  cannot  be  without  love,  and  yet  wee 
apprehend  not  thepromifes  of  eternal!  life  by  works,  but 
by  faith  alone ;  although  truly  they  cannot  be  apprehended 
by  parties  deftitutc  of  works,  at  leaftof  fincere  refolution 
towaike  in  obedience.  Nor  doth  faith  alone  apprehend 
the  truth,  or  derive  the  benefit  of  divine  promifcs  to  our 
lelves,  but  by  it  alone  (though  accompanied  with  all  other 
fandtifying graces,  and  attended  with  the  whole  traine  of 
good  works)  we  expert  and  pray  the  promilcs  may  be  ful- 
filled, not  for  our  fakes,  or  for  any  righteoufneflc  wee  have 
in  us,  or  can  hope  for  in  this  life,  but  onely  for  the  merit  of 
Chriit,  by  his  ible  mediation  and  interceflion.   In  briefe, 
the  faith  which  juftificth  is  operative,  attended  with  good 
works  ofall  Ibrts,  accompanied  with  all  graces  of  the  Spi- 
rit :  but  wee  live  by  it,  ^z  it  unites  us  to  the  Lord  of  li^o. ; 
yea,  by  it  alone,  not  by  it  and  other  pnrts  of  grace,  in  as 
much  as  by  it  wee  truRinGods  mercies  offered  inChrift, 
wholly  relying  on  them,  not  partly  on  them,  and  parily  on 
our  works  or  righteoufneffe. 

CHAP. 


57 


f- 


58 


what  do  firms  arc  called  matters  of  Faith. 


§  t. 

What  do^rtnes 
are  called  matters 
of  Faith. 


§.2. 
JuSiifym^fatth 
it  rivt  wayet  confi- 
dered. 


CHAP.  V. 

Of  thegenerall  objeU  or  matter  of 
Faith  jufiifying, 

§.  r.  \K  Atters  of  faith  ftri61:ly  and  properly  thofe  are 
XVjL called,  which  pertainetothe  nature  and  e(fence 
offaith,  firftandby  themfelves;  as  are  the  points  of  faith 
contained  in  the  Gofpel,  the  ignorance  whereof  is  dam- 
nable, and  the  denial!  hereticall-  But  in  a  more  large  ac- 
ceptation,all  truth,revealedby  God  in  his  holy  Word,  is  a 
matter  of  faith,  and  to  beebeieeved  as  God  hath  revealed 
it.  Hence  is  that  rule  of  Divines,  There  arc  manyintegrall 
parts  in  the  word  of  God ,  which  are  faid  to  bee  of  the 
I  word  of  faith ,  but  not  properly  a  matter  of  faith.     For 
/there  are  many  hiftoricall,  domefticall,  and  particular 
matters  fet  downe  for  example,  not  properly  for  faith : 
which  wee  beleeve ,  not  bccaufe  they  pertaine  to  laving 
faith,  but  for  that  they  appertaineto  the  Word  written 
by  the  Spirit  of  God.  And  not  much  unlike  hereunto  is 
that  diftin6tion ,  that  fome  things  are  neceflParie  to  bee 
beleevedtofalvation  by  themfelves,  and  the  authoritie  of 
the  Scriptures ,  as  the  fubftantiall  points  of  faith  and 
manners;  others  for  the  authoritie  of  the  Scripture  one?y, 
as  thofe  which  are  not  (b  neceflarie :  and  (bme  neither 
by  themfelves,  northeauthoritie-of  the  Scripture,  as  are 
things  in  themfelves  indifferent ,  fo  long  as  by  circum- 
ftance  they  be  not  repugnant  to  faith,  truth,  love,  and  edifi- 
cation. 

§.  2.  Juftifying  faith  is  confidered ,  either  according 
to  its  mort  eminent  effedjwhich  istojurtifie ;  or  according 
to  its  full  and  adequate  ait.  For  that  faith  which  juftifieth, 
doth  embrace  the  Commandements,  beleeve  the  chreat- 
looke  to  all  the  promifes  of  God  made  in  Jefus 


nings 


Chrift  concerning  this  life  or  the  life  to  come ,  and  re- 
ceive the  good  things  promiled ;  it  fuftaineth  in  adverfi- 

ties 


Jujlifjing  Faith  is  tvoo  rvayes  conftdered. 


5P 


tics,  worketh  by  Jove  as  an  inftrument  conjoyncd  with 
it ,  guidcth  all  our  aftions  ,  and  giverh  firme  aiTent  un- 
to everie  article  of  faith,  and  everie  part  of  divine  truth r 
but  as  it  juflifieth,  it  isconveriant  about  Chrift  obeying 
10  death,  that  vvc  may  find  righteoufncfle  and  torgivenefle 
of  finnes  to  life  in  him ;  or  it  cleaveth  unto  Gods  mercies 
manifefted  in  that  eternall  facriflce,  alwayes  breathing 
out  Jjte  to  men,  renouncing  all  rruft  and  confidence, 
even  in  fuch  graces  as  wee  have  received  from  God.  The 
truth ,  mercie ,  fidclitie,  and  power  of  God,  with  all 
benefits  paft  and  to  come,  which  it  plealeth  God  to  bz- 
fiow  upon  bis  people  in  Jefus  Chriii ,  are  the  matter 
about  which  faith  is  exercifed  :  but  as  it  jul^ifitth^  Chrift 
is  the  full  and  adequateobje^tof  beleefe;  as  our  reafona- 
ble  Ibule  doth  fee  in  the  eye,  heare  in  the  eare,  digcll  in 
the  ftomack,  but  doth  not  reaibn  as  it  doth  thefe  things, 
butonely  as  it  conceiveth  and  difcourleth  within  us.  So 
that,  according  to  the  twofold  confideration  of  jnlh'fy- 
ing  faith,  theobje6>  of  it  is  twofold.  Generall  and  Spe- 
ciall.  I-  The  Generall  objefl  is  the  whole  tnith  of  God 
revealed  unto  us  in  his  Word,  containing  all  Hifl-ories, 
Do6lrines,  Commands,  Threatnings ,  Pfomifes  of  what 
kind  Ibcver.  True  faith  refpe6>s  all  this,  and  ondy  this. 
Oncly  this,  becaufe  divine  revelations  onely  be  of  certaine 
and  infallible  truth,  which  cannot  deceive,  and  whercunto 
mencanfafely  give  unlimited  and  abiolute credit :  All  this, 
becaufe  everie  part  of  divine  inlpired  truth  is  worthy  of  all 
beleefeand  reverence  :  andfo  there  is  nothing  contained 
in  Scriptures,  threatning,  promife,  precept,  admoni- 
tion, exhortation,  prophelie ,  or  hi(^orie,  which  falls  not 
in  fbmc  degree  or  other  within  the  compalTe  of  faving 
Faith. 

God  who  cannot  lye,  hath  propounded  to  men  for 
truth,  and  to  be  beleeved,  whatfoever  is  delivered  in  Scrip- 
tures, and  fo  it  is  a  matter  of  faith ;  but  lb  farre  forth 
onely,  as  it  is  intended  to  bee  held  for  true  by  the  Holy 
Ghoft,  the  Authour  of  the  Scripture.  There  is  no  doubt 

to 


Theob)cf>of 
ju  tifyin:;fiiith 
two- fold. 
I.  GencrjII. 


Tru& faith  re<pe- 
dcth  the  whole 
word  of  God. 


■r 


60  ThehtJioricaHpart^  as  doBrtrfsof  creation^&c. 


Genef.49.i,i- 


2Reg.18.j0. 
and  i^'43^' 


5-  ?•.    „ 

fc  The  hiHorieaU 

paxt^Oithetla- 
Srinctf  th' 


^reMtion. 
Heb.ii.J. 


Tf  tvidene«' 


robeemadcj  but  whatfoevcris  regiftredin  the  Hiftoricall 
Bookes  of  holy  Scripture  by  way  of  report,  it  to  bee  taken 
for  true  in  refped  ot  ftorie,  that  wee  may  not  doubt  whe- ' 
therthofe  things  were  done  or  faid,  which  are  there  repor- 
ted to  be  done  or  faid  :  But  in  thefe  bookes,  wee  have  fome 
worthy  fpeeches  of  godly  men,  and  fome  lewd  and  blaiphe- 
mous  words  of  profane  and  wretched  men.  The  former  are 
to  be  acknowledged  for  the  truth  of  Godeverieway:  the 
latter  muft  be  acknowledged  to  bee  truly  reported.  As  for 
example:  it  is  true  that  J^co^  uttered  thofe  prophefies  of 
the  twelve  Patriarks  his  Ions,  and  it  is  alfotrue,  thatthofe 
prophefies  of  his  were  the  verie  truth  of  God.  It  is  as  true> 
that  Rabfhakeh  delivered  thofe  blafphemous  threatnings 
againft  the  Lord  and  his  people,  but  it  is  not  true  that  thole 
words  came  from  God,  zs  Jacobs  did;  (0  JacohsvitTt  to 
betaken  aseverie  way  true,  truly  related,  and  the  truth  of 
God ;  %ab(haksks  onely  as  truly  reported  from  his  mouth, 
but  in  themfelvesblafphemous. 

§.  5.  Thus  faith  yeeldeth  firme  and  abfolutc  aflent  to 
all  divine  hiftories,  as  containing  a  certaine  and  liire  rela- 
tion of  thole  things  whereof  they  intreat ;  and  to  whatlb- 
ever  came  from  God,as  everie  way  true,and  to  be  received: 
nor  doth  it  barely  aflent  to  the  thiilg  fpoken  as  true,  but, 
moveth  and  ftirreth  affe61:ions  according  as  the  nature  of 
the  thing  beleeved  fliould  and  ought  to  worke.  Through 
\  faith  wee  underfiand  that  the  worlds  were  framed  by  the 
n»'tfri:/^/G'<?<^,notbarelygiving  credit  to  Mofesi:Q.\mon  tou-j 
ching  the  creation  of  the  world?  but  looking  unto  the  wii-i 
I  dome,  goodnefle,  and  power  of  God,  whereby  the  heart' 
is  moved  to  feare,  reverence,  and  fubmiflion.  That  faith 
which  is  deeply  faftcned  in  the  heart,  and  beholdeth  the 
true  God,  the  Creatour  and  Governour  of  all  things,  as  his 
power,  bountie,  and  underftanding,  (hineth  in  bis  works; 
that  faith  encitcth  tohumilitie,  reverence,  love,  and  wor-| 
fliipofGod.  Through  faith  wee  undcrftand  that  God  hath 
proiCtSled,  and  prelerved,  andblefled  his  people  from  time 
to  time;  afflidtcd  them  when  they  wentaftray,  delivered 

them 


Promifes  concerning  San^if cation. 


61 


P&1.73.24^»7. 


.Mtit  mifcrie  hy 
ftnne. 


Imejft. 


them  out  of  the  hands  of  their  pcrfecutors  when  they 
humbled  thcmlelves  and  fought  unto  him ,  inclined  the 
hearts  of  their  enemies  to  fhew  them  favour,  confonnded 
thofe  tharrofc  up  againft  them,  and  mercifully  performed 
all  his  promifes  in  the  fitteft  fealbn  :  and  where  this  firme 
beleefe  is  planted,  it  begetteth  a  conrtant  and  well-advifcd 
relbJutionto  draw  neereto  God,  and  cleave  to  him  in  all 
conditions,  prolperitieandadverfitie,  ficknelTe  and  health, 
freedome  and  trouble,  when  religion  is  favoured,  and  when 
it  is  perfecuted :  becaufe  falvation  is  of  the  Lord,  hec  will 
guide  his  people  by  couniell,  and  afterward  receive  them 
to  glorie,  but  they  that  are  farre  from  God  fhall  perifh, 
they  that  -goe  a  whoring  firom  him  diall  bee  def^royed. 
What  the  Scripture  teachethof  the  mifcrie  of  all  men  by 
finne,  thevanitieof  mind>and  corruption  of  nature,  that 
faith  rcceiveth ;  and  thence  follovveth  felfe-deniall  and  re- 
nunciation of  all  trnft  in  worldly  meanes.  The  high  and 
profound  myfteriesof  godlineffe,  which  the  natnrallman 
perceiveth  not ,  accounreth  foolifhnefle,  faith  embraccth 
with  admiration,  joy,  delight,  and  affeiiion  anfwerable  to 
the  nature  of  the  do^ftrine  into  which  we  are  delivered.  Be- 
leefe of  Gods  power,  vviidome,  gtlace,  love, and  mercie  ma- 
nifefledin  JefusChrift,  doth  frame  the  image  of  God  ot- 
Chrift  in  our  minds,  and  propoieth  it  as  a  vifible  patterne 
for  our  imitation  in  all  our  works,thoughts,  and  refolutions, 
and  flirreth  up  to  works  ofpietie,  juftice,  mercie,  long-fuf- 
fering,and  the  like. 

§.  4.  Belides  the  promijc  of  forgiveneiTe  of  firtne^,  in 
and  through  thebloud  of  Chrift,  there  bee  many  other 
precious  and  rich  promifes,  fpirituall  and  temporal!,  con- 
cerning this  and  the  life  to  come :  all  which,  as  procee- 
ding from  the  fame  fountaine  of  triKh ,  hkh  doth  reft 
upon  and  embrace,  and  that  fb  much  the  fafler,  as  the 
promifes  bee  more  excellent.  There  is  a  mutual!  relation 
betwixt  God  promising  any  good  blefl[^ng  in  Chrift,  and 
the  fjithfull  fbule  putting  forth  it  felfe  to  embrace  grace 
offered.  For  faith  hath  not  onely  tyts,  by  which  it  doth 

fee  i 


2  The  pTomiftt 
conternin^ 


»f 


6^ 


;a  Cor.i.Jc. 


[S4nSiJication. 


Jcrem.32.40. 
Ezek  36 1\27. 


Phil.T.5. 

1  Cor.  1.8. 

2  Tim.i.i2. 


Thefromifes  concerning  Sancftjication. 


fee  thegood  promifed,  but  hands  wherewith  it  doth  lay 
hold  upon  the  good  things  beftowed :  and  the  more  ex- 
cellent the  good,  which  is  reached  unto  usin  thevvordof 
promife,is,theclo(erdoth  faith  flick  unto  it,  the  ftronger 
dot1i  it  hold  it .  Men  are  credu  lous  in  things  that  may  con- 
cerne  them  in  their  name,  goods,  or  life :  and  the  more 
weightie  the  matter,the  more  earnelt  they  be  in  fecking  re- 
(blution,  and  the  ftronger  hope  or  feareof  it  begetteth  in 
them.  All  the  promifes  of  God  he  Tea  and  Ameny  furein 
themfelves,  certaine  to  thebeleever,  and  therefore-hee  can- 
not but  receive  them  with  clofer  and  ftronger  repofe  and 
adherence,  the  more  hee  doth  apprehend  their  goodnefle 
and  worth. 

Amongft  the  greater  and  more  principall  promiles, 
thofe  are  to  bee  reckoned,  which  God  hath  made  concer- 
ning our  fan£lification  by  his  holy  Spirit,  that  hee  will  en- 
able them  that  beleeve  to  bring  forth  fruits  of  amend- 
ment ,  and  perfe6l  the  good  worke  begun  in  them  from 
day  to  day.  This  is  the  covenant  which  God  hath  made 
with  his  people  ;  I  will  put  myfeare  into  their  hearts  ^  that 
thejjhall not  depart  jrommyyvayes.  Thispromileis  verie 
neceflarie  tobeebeleeved :  for  if  people  be  not  well  groun- 
ded inbelecving  that  God  willbuild  them  up  more  ftrong- 
ly  from  day  to  d^y,  and  perfe6l  the  good  worke  in  them 
which  he  hath  begun,  even  to  full  fan6tification  in  the  feare 
of  God,  they  (hall  verie  much  ftagger  and  goe back,  cold- 
ly fet  upon  the  pra£^ice  of  goJlinefle,  be  oft' and  on,  now 
forward ,  now  backward ,  not  knowing  hovV  to  begin ,  or 
to  proceed  in  the  way  of  holinefle.  Beleefe  that  God  will 
enable  them  to  everie  dutie  hee  doth  require,  and  ftreng- 
thcn  them  againft  enemies  that  doe  oppofe ,  is  a  maine 
port  in  the  Chriftian  building,  an  exceeding  furtherance 
unto  god linefle,  without  which  they  fhall  bee  oft  fhakcn 
and  difmaied.  Thefe  promifes  be  of  great  price :  for  if  a 
Chriftian  were  allowed  to  aske  of  God  whatlbcver  hee 
would>  next  unto  the  pardon  of  his  finnes,  and  falvation 
of  his  foule,  what  would  hee  defire>  but  to  be«  aflbred 

from 


Promifes  concerning  things  temprall. 


63 


from  God  that  hee  will  eftablifh  him  in  grace,  and  teach 
him  the  good  way  which  hee  ought  to  goe,  that  hee  will 
fantflifie  him  in  foule ,  fpirit ,  and  body  ,  and  keepe  him 
blamelefle  unto  the  comming  of  our  Lord  Jefus  unto 
judgement  ?  And  when  hee  dilcerneth  any  iiich  nromil?  to 
bee  made,  it  is  not  hard  to  conceive,  with  what  deare  af- 
fection and  ftrong  adherence  hee  doth  receive  it ,  how 
clofe  hee  layeth  it  up  in  his  fcule,  and  Iweetly  feedeth 
upon  it.  Thispromife  h  (vveet,  and  belcefe  thereof  ftir- 
ring  and  operative :  for  it  hearteneth  to  the  prad^ice  of  \ 
mortification  and  new  obedience  with  great  courage,  j 
chearefulneffe,  and  ftayednefle;  itquickeneth  and  encou- 
rageih  to  pray,  as  neccflities  fhall  give  caufe ;  it  preferveth 
from  faintin^^  and  difmayednefle,  when  (Irength  is  not  verie 
great;  and  it  at  any  time,  through  weakneflfe  and  infirmitie, 
(ecuritie  catch  hold  upon  us,  faith  in  the  promife,  that  God 
will  be  our  ftrength  and  help,is  that  which  raifeth  us  againe, 
andputteth  courage  into  us  to  fight  againrt  the  adveriaries 
of  ourfoulc. 

Many  gracious  and  free  promifes,  concerning  the  blef. 
fings  of  this  life,  aredifperfed  in  the  Word  of  life,  which 
faith  receiveth  as  true  and  certaine,  becaufe  they  come 
from  the  God  of  truth,  who  is  faithfull,  fincere  and  con- 
ftant  in  all  his  promiles.  Codlineffe  hath  the  -promifes  hth 
of  thps  life  (indthnt  which  is  to  come.  Hee  that  jf  are d not 
his  orvyje  So»,  bnt  deltvered  him  up  for  iu  all '  how  (hall  he 
not  with  htm  alfo  freely  give  m  all  things  ?  as  health, 
maintenance,  credit,  prolpcrous  fuccefle  m  our  callings  and 
lawful  1  dealings,  deliverance  our  of  troubles^  and  fuch  like. 
This  is  the  aflurance  that  God  hath  given,  even  his  faith- 
full  promife  often  repeated,  many  wayes  ratified  and  con- 
firmed, that  hee  will  make  competent  provifion  for  his 
children  :  which  is  to  faith  better  than  many  bils  of  lecu- 
ritiefrom  men,  yea,  than  large  pofTcfsions  in  hand  for  the 
prclcnt.  The  worth  and  gcodncffe  of  earthly  blefsings 
promifed  is  apparent ,  fpecially  when  they  bee  given  in 
love  and  mercie,  as  gifts  of  the  covenant,  tokens  of  free 

grace. 


Tiling!  ttmptraU. 


GencT.i5.y. 

Heb.i?.y. 
I  Tim4,S. 

ROTI.8.52. 


64 


§•  J-. 


Rom.ij«f. 


T^e  threatnings, 

grace,  and  byafupernaturall  providence  elevated  to  fpi- 
rituall  ufe,  in  which  fenfe  they  are  promifcd  and  vouch- 
lafed  unto  them  that  feare  God  and  waike  in  hiswayes. 
And  therefore  when  the  beleever  is  rightly  informed, 
that  God  hath   made  any  fuch  promifcs,  hce  puttethr 
forth  the  hand  of  faith  to  lay  fall  hold  upon  them ,  and 
boxeth  them  up  fafe,  as  his  bed  and  onely  evidence  for  the 
things  o[  this  life,  and  the  fanc^ification  of  them.    For 
want  of  this  faith ,   many  vertuous  and  godly  men  are 
greatly  ftaggered  and  perplexed,  plunged  into  deepe  un- 
comfortable dumps  and  tedious  troubles  about  the  things 
of  this  life :  But  when  once  thefe  promifes  be  well  rivet- 
ted  into,  and  have  taken  root  in  the  heart  by  a  lively  faith, 
bcleefe  hereof  bringeth  forth  contentment,  comforteth  in 
the  multitude  of  perplexities,  encourageth  to  diligence  in 
our  places,  quickeneth  in  adverfitics,  and  ftrengthens  to 
the  works  of  righteoufnefle,  as  knowing  that  to  be  the  fureft 
way  for  the  gaining  of  durable  riches,  and  trufting  more  to 
the  faithfeU  promifes  of  God,  though  above  JikeJyhood, 
than  to  their  owne  carnall  devices,  though  in  fliew  and  ap- 
pearance probable. 

§.  5.  As  faith  receiveth  what  God  promifeth,  becaufe 
God  is  faithfull,and  the  promifes  of  great  worth  and  good- 
nefTe :  fo  it  beleeveth  the  threatnings  denounced  m  the 
Word,  not  barely  apprehending  them  as  true  and  certaine, 
but  alio  declining  them  asevill.  For  the  whole  Scripture 
breathed  from  God,  and  everie  part  thereof  is  Gods  word> 
of  infallible  truth ,  deferving  abfolute  credit.   God  is  as 
well  juft  as  mercifull ;  faithfull  and  true  as  well  in  his 
threats,  as  in  his  promifes,  and  equally  tobebe'eeved  in 
both,  (ofarreas  by  his  Word  hee  hath  afluredus  of  both. 
Hce  that  beleeveth  the  one  as  hee  ought,  beleeveth  both : 
and  hee  that  beleeveth  notbcth,  gives  found  credit  to  nei- 
ther. Beleefe  ofthe  threatnings  is  neceflfarie:  Forrvhat- 
foever  things  are  written  (whether  precepts,  promifes, 
threatnings,  examples  )  ^r^  yvritten  for  our  learning:  and 
as  the  promifes  of  this  life  and  the  life  to  come  are  (harp 

fpurres 


The  ThrtAtmngs. 

Ipurres  to  quicken  us  unco  godJincflc :  fo  the  threacnings 
are  (kong bridles  to  keepe  from  naughtinefTe.  Firme  aflcnt 
tothecertaineaccomplidiment  of  divine  threatnings,  doth 
beget  humiliation  for  finne  part,  and  vigilancicto  fhun 
,finne and efcape danger:  itftrengthcns  againftbafe,  carnall 
feareSj  and  the  threats  of  men  that  oppole  the  truth,  and 
reviveth  care  toferve  and  pleafeGod  at  all  times,  and  in 
all  things.  Wherefore  doe  the  terrours  of  men  fb  much 
aftight,  butbecaufefleight  belcefeis  given  to  the  threat- 
nings of  the  Lord?  The  grace  and  mercieofGod  belee- 
vcd  breeds  love  of  God ,  and  conlequently  true  fearc, 
which  isoppofedto  fenfelefle  ftupiditie,  and  carnall  pre- 
fumption ,  though  it  cafteth  out  fcare  which  proceecieth 
from  unbeleefe. 

But  what  need  Beleevers  feare  the  threatnings,  feeing 
there  is  no  condemnation,  or  caufe  of  feare  to  them  that  be- 
leeve  ?  The  Apoftle  faith  indeed,  there  is  no  condemnation  / 
tofuch  :  but  wee  cannot  therefore  conclude,  that  there  is 
no  caufe  of  feare  to  them,  unlefTeno  other  evils,  but  final] 
damnation  need  to  bee  feared.  But  whileftthefouleisfub- 
jed  to  bring  upon  it  Gods  temporaric  wrath,  fickneffes 
fpirituall,  heliifli  anguifh  to  the  fenfe  of  it,  there  is  ^vW 
caufe  enough  to  feare.    Seeing  that  concerning  temporal] 
threats  ana  punifhments,  Goddealethas  (harply,  or  ra- 
ther morefliarply  with  his  children  than  any  other,  why 
fhouldthey  not  dread  his  fatherly  corrediion?  Would  a 
child  that  had  bur  one  fparke  of  wit,  or  common  realbn, 
provoke  his  father  to  icourge  and  whip  him  everie  day, 
becaufe  hee  knowes  hee  will  not  dii^inherit  him  in  the  end ; 
and  not  rather  fay,  It  is  good  fleeping  in  a  whole  skin  ? 
And  fliall  Beleevers,  who  are  fpiritually  wite,  willingly 
provoke  God,  becaufe  hee  will  not  condemne  them  eter- 
nally ?  The  afliirance  which  a  godly  man  hath  of  his  ialva- 
tion,  is  ever  joyned  with  a  faithful!  and  confcionable  care 
to  walk  uprightly  before  the  Lord,  and  to  decline  by- paths 
and  ftrayings ;  for  which  end  he  makes  ulc  of  everie  part  of 
the  Word,  Therein  no  condemnation  to  them  vhich  are  in 

F  C^rift 
' '   \ 


^5 


RonvS-x. 


Amos  J. 2 
a  Sam.  12, 


14. 


Rom.S.r. 


•; 


66 


%.6. 

4.  (^nnnuintle~ 

meiits. 

Tit.2.»,ii. 


The  Commandcments. 


'  poriFt  Jeju4,  whowalkf  *iot  after  the  flejh,  but  after  the^ 
Spirit.  Moreover,  there  may  be  feare  of  that  which  a  man 
is  infallibly  aflured  toefcape,  not  a  diftruftfull  feare  of  fal- 
ling into  it,but  a  watchfuU  feare  of fliunning  and  fhrinking 
all  meanes  leading  thereunto. 

§.  6.  The  word  of  grace,  which  calleth  upon  us  tobe- 
Iceve  the  free  mercie  of  God  in  Chrift  to  the  pardon  of  our 
o^'enccSjteacheth  m  to  deny  ungodlineffe  andvoorldly  iufist. 
and  to  live  godly  ^  jufily,foberly  in  this  prefext  evill  world  : 
and  this  word  of  grace  is  the  matter  of  iairh,which  is  wholly 
received,  if  any  part  take  good  rooting.  For  the  precepts  of 
ianditie  and  hoiineflebind  the  confcience  to  obey  God,  as 
well  as  the  promifesbind  to  ttuft  in  God.  What  God  hath 
linked  togethcr,faith  will  not  feparate :  but  God  hath  cou- 
pled mercie.and  obedience,  grace  and  holinefle.  He  cannot 
belecve,or  makefaithfull  plea  to  the  promifcs  of  remiffion 
and  falvation,  who  doth  not  make  confcience  of  all  found 
do6lrine  that  he  heareth,  and  give  free,  unlimited  aflent  to 
cvcrie  part  of  Gods  Word,  fnbmitting  himfelfe  to  be  ltd  by 
it,andtbatbecaufeit  is  his  Word.  Faith  letteth  theimage 
of  God  upon  the  heart ;  which  is  manifefted  in  the  feverall 
i  branches  of  holineffe  and  righteoufhefle,  which  hcecom- 
'  mandeth  in  his  Word :  and  it  refignetha  man  unto  God, 
to  live?  not  unto  the  world,  not  unto  theluflsof  the  flefli, 
but  unto  thepraife  of  his  Name;  which  is  not  pofsible  to 
be  done,  if  he  cleave  not  unto  the  Commandements  as  juft, 
equall,  honeft,  and  good,  in  all  thijngs  and  at  all  times  to  be 
obeyed. 

Faith  cannot  take  and  leave,  yeeld  and  with-hold  aflent 
at  pleafure,part  and  mangle,  divide  with  times,  feafons,  and 
private  refpefts ;  or  refigne  it  felfe  to  God,  with  limitation 
to  have  leave  in  this  or  that  to  live  at  plealure :  but  it  is 
downe-right  for  God,  and  willingly  receiveth  whatlbever 
hee  faith;  what  God  approveth,  that  is  plea fing  to  faith, 
though  crofle  to  age,  education,  cuftomc,  credit,  honour, 
natHrall  defire,  and  inclination:  what  God  condemneth, 
that  faith  difalloweth,  though  never  (b  much  countcnan-; 

ctd 


The  Commandemems. 


67 


ced  by  authoritie,  graced  by  example,  attended  upon  with 
honour,  dignitie,  preferment,  and  futing  to  our  dilpofition. 
Faith  fubdueth  the  ftrongcft  pafTiorjs  as  well,  and  (if  due 
and  right  comparifbn  bee  made)  as  much  as  the  weakeft; 
and  acknowledging  the  goodnefle,  mercie,andablblutefo- 
vcraigntie  of  the  Lord,  yeeldeth  it  felfe  to  be  led  by  him, 
above  all  things  that  can  oppofe  themfelves,  and  will  not 
give  place  to  ought  that  doth  fet  againft  him.  If  God  bid 
Ahrnham  leave  all,  his  friends,  his  fathers  houfe,  the  land 
of  his  nativitie,  to  goc  into  a  ftrange  countrcy,he  iz  ftraijght 
upon  his  journey,  without  further  qucftioninghee  will  bee 
gone,  no  entreatie  will  ftay  him  in  Mefofotamia.  If  Cod 
command  him  to  offer  bis  onely  Son  in  facrificc,  he  is  early 
up  to  doe  it. 

The  faithfull  foulc  gives  firme  and  free  afTent  unto  all 
things  revealed  by  God ,  eagerly  fixeth  the  affiance  of 
heart  upon  the  promifes,  and  cleaveth  clofe  unto  the  Com- 
mandements,  not  onely  fuch  as  fute  with  his  dilpofition, 
education,  age,  but  even  thole  that  direftlycrofle  and  op- j 
pole  carnall  reafon,  carnall  affeftions,  wordly  pleafures, 
and  what  provocations  foevcr  there  be  in  the  world  unto 
finne :  and  not  then  alone  when  it  may  be  done  without 
contradi6lion  or  refif^ance,    but  then  cfpecially  when 
temptations  rife,  humane  reafon  failes,finfull  lufls  hale  this 
way  and  that,  Satan  rageth,  the  world  frownesor  flatters, 
our  preferment,  credit, honour,life,  all  lies  at  flake.  In  this 
cafe,  faith  lookes  diredlly  unto  God,  and  judgeth  it  befl  to 
flick  unto  him  from  whom  comes  falvation.  For  no  good 
can  bee  equall  to  that  which  God  promifeth,  no  evill  fo 
great  as  what  he  threatens,  no  courfe  lb  fafe  as  what  bee 
prcfcribes »  no  evidence  fb  fure  as  the  truth  of  God ,  no 
command  fo  jufl  as  what  God  requires;  the  greateflga  ine 
is  to  lofe  all  forChrifls  fake,  if  wee  be  called  thereunto  ; 
wee  fhould  fland  fbafte6led  to  the  glorie  of  God,  as  to 
fKrinke  in  no  triall,  though  never  lb  difficult,  nor  thinkeit 
much  to  refiFt  nnto  blond-,  flriving  again^  ftn :  This  is  the 
conftant,  certaine  judgement  of  faitn,  which  bringeth  forth 

F  2  a  fettled 


GeneC.ti.Tj{. 


General  2,3. 


Hcb.i^ 


68  Ir^  particular  frac^ittes  thefdthfuU  maj  faile. 


In  particular pTM' 
dices  tht  fatttifuU 
raty  faile. 
I  Sam.i7.t. 
pfal.iKs'ii. 

74- 


Heb.Ti.2  5- 

§.7. 
The  obedience  »f 
faith  tiUH  if orme^ 
entirt,  and  «»- 
fiant. 


a  fettled  rdbJiTtion  to  follow  the  Lord  at  alltimcs,andinall 
things,  notwithlhndiftg  all  oppoficion. 

In  particular  pradices  the  faithfnll  foule  may  be  ignorant 
of  fonie  things*  and  vveake  in  the  application  of  others. 
David  in  a  palfion  may  thinke  Samuel  hath  deceived  him  ; 
and  'Pettr  furpriiedvvith  bodily  feare  may  deny  his  Mafter: 
bnt  the  conftant  tc  nr^r  of  the  Bcleever  is  much  better ;  and 
if  by  Ibme  unexpc6ted  occafion  he  be  unfettled,  he  is  never 
quiet,  untill  his  former  refolotion  be  confirmed,  and  put  in 
praifVice.  For  having  weighed  and  pondered  all  things  in  an 
even  balance,  heeisafluredly  perfvvaded,  that  no  outward 
cvillcan  come  incomparifon  with  Gods  anger,  noearthly 
good  is  to  be  matched  with  Gods  favour,  that  tranfitorie 
delights  are  deare  bought,  if  a  man  endanger  his  Ibule  to 
compaflfe  them ;  that  the  fufferings  of  this  life  are  not  wor- 
thy to  be  compared  with  the  glorie  thatfhall  be  revealed: 
and  therefore  it  is  infinitely  better  to  cleave  unto  God, 
though  in  reproaches,  bands,  imprifonment,  or  death,  than 
to  enjsj  the  fleafures  df  fin  for  a  feafon. 

§.  7.  And  feeing  faith  kindly  rooted  doth  fpread  k  felfe 
tocverie  branch  of  divine  truth,  cleaving  infeparably  to  the 
whole,  and  with  cloieft  repofe  of  heart,  to  that  which  is 
moft  excellent  and  of  greateft  importance,  the  obedience 
which  faith  prodnceth ,  and  the  works  which  it  anima- 
teth,mnft  bee  entire,  uniforme,and  conftant .  Entire,  not  in 
degree,  but  in  the  branches  of  obedience.  Maimed  obedi- 
ence to  (bme  duties  of  the  Law,lopping  off  other  branches, 
which  accord  not  with  our  ftate,  humour  and  difpofition, 
or  groflely  neglecting  them,  though  no  lefle  commanded, 
is  an  argument  of  an  unfound  and  imperfe<ft  root  whence  it 
ipringeth.  The  practice  of  (bme  one  or  few  Chriftian  du- 
ties, joyned  with  the  extreme  negle6>  of  others  no  lefle 
excellent  and  neceflarie,  is  no  token  of  faith,  but  a  ftroi^ 
preemption  that  what  good  is  done,  proceedeth  from  in- 
dulgence to  corruption.  For  if  wee  give  our  felves  to  the 
prolecution  of  fbme  good  works,  bccaufc  wee  receive  and 
embrace  the  Word  which  commandeth  them,  then  fliall 

wt 


obedience  of  Faiih  is  uniforme^  entire^  ^c. 


69 


wee  give  our  fclves  to  the  performance  of  everie  good 
worke,  which  the  fame  Word  doth  call  for  at  our  hands  ; 
If  we  doe  this  or  that  good  worke  commanded,  becaufe  it 
is  futable  to  our  dilpofition,  pafsing  over  others  that  bee 
crofle  thereunto,  wee  obey  not  the  Lord,  but  pleafe  our 
felves. 

The  Word  of  God  doth  worke  eft'eflually  as  it  is  em- 
braced, and  theconfideratioa  of  what  Chrift  hath  done  for 
us,  will  bring  forth  in  us  the  fame  mind  that  was  in  him,  a 
mind  to  doe  his  Fathers  will  in  everie  point  alike  fincercly  • 
but  with  greater  intentions,  fervour  and  chearefulnefle,  as 
the  wcightinefle  of  the  dutie*  or  opportunitie  and  (eafbn 
(liali  require.  For  true  faith  aflentetn  to  everie  divine  truth, 
as  certaineand  infallible,  cleaveth  to  everie  promileand 
commandement  alike  fincerely  and  uafainedly,fticketh  fa- 
fleft  totbemthatbeeof  grcatcft  worth  and  necefsitie,  or 
upon  ipecialloccafion  may  moft  tend  to  the  glorieof  God,/ 
'  the  comfort  of  the  Ibule,  and  good  ©four  brethren;  and  ib 
teacheth  the  afFe<5lions  to  rife  and  fall,  (well  and  affwage, 
whether  in  admiration  ordeteftation,  in  embracing  or  loa- 
thing, and  CO  put  thcmfelves  forth  in  pra6lice,  according  to 
the  different  excellencie  or  indignitie,  goodnefle  or  w'dC" 
neffeofobjeiSls  prefenced  to  them.  It  teacheth  us  abfblutely 
and  entirely  tofubmic  our wils unto  Gods  will;  toaffedl 
whatfbever  he  approves,  to  hate  whatlbever  hee  difallowes ; 
to  love  that  beft,which  his  Word  afllireth  us  to  be  moft  ex- 
cellent and  deare  to  him,  andtodeteft  thatrr.oft,  which  is 
moft  odious  and  abominable  in  his  fight,  though  otherwifc 
pleafantto  ournaturall  difpofition,  or  not  ibdiftaftefullas 
many  other  matters  would  be,  did  we  take  care  for  [he  flefli 
to  fulfill  the  lufls  thereof. 

Indeed  the  faithfull  foule  may  find  it  kl^c  more  prone 
to  one  finne  than  another,  and  more  dull  to  fome  good  du- 
ties than  other,  byreafon  of  naturall  inclination,  ftate  of 
life,  ciiftome,  or  fome  other  occafion :  but,  if  right  compa- 
rifon  bee  made,  tiichenciteth  to  hate  allfiunc,and  to  affeil 
all  duties  of  holinelTe,  one  as  well  as  another.  A  man  fick 

F   5  of/ 


70 


Luk.S.i;. 


The J^cc  tall  objeoi  of  juftifiing  faith . 


Thffpeciali  eh'eCf 


2  Cor. y. Iff. 
Komi  5.55,26. 
Rom.  10. S.  and 
I.J7* 


of  divers  difeafesj  but  one  predominant,  may  be  cnred  of  it 
as  much  as  of  any  of  therert,  and  yet  bee  more  troubled 
with  the  remainders  of  it,  becaufe  it  had  deepcft  root  and 
greatelihead  :  andioeverie  member  ofcorrupt  ion  may  be 
truly  mortified,  and  yet  the  ftronger  pafsions  before,thougb 
in  pro^Tortionable  degree  tamed  and  brought  into  lubjci^ion 
as  it^uch  as  the  reft,may  be  rhe  moft  troublefbme.-vvhich  the 
faithftjll  doe  acknowledge,  bewaile,  and  cndevour  to  re- 
drefle,  keeping  them  under  with  greateftcare,  and  ftriving 
againft  them  with  all  earneftneflc. 

This  fight  agaioft  corruption  is  cOnrtantly  maintained 
by  faith,  and  conftantly  it  cleaveth  to  the  word  of  grace,  as 
much  better  than  all  carnall  or  wordly  allurements, 
whereby  wee  might  be  drawne  afide  intofitlne,  and  fo  it 
bringeth  forth  conftant  obedience  to  the  will  of  God ,  ■■  The 
good  ground  are  theyswkich  with  an  hone  ft  and  gpsd  heart 
having  heardthcfVordi^ep  it,  and  bring  forth  frhit  with 
patience. 

•  ->  -^  no'j  iiirriof  ■1'!.;: 


.1 


I  :>;i- •■■!!!  ;JlJ^j^ 


CHAP. 'Vi:'^ '';-'' 

Of  the IpecialiohjiB  of  jufltfjing faith. 


i3Vonl  jfidw 

§.  i.T^Aith  (ceketh  not  life  and  faVationin  the  threat- 
i  nings,  prohibitions,  or cpmmandements;  though 
it  worke  by  love,  and  earneftly  contend  againft  corruption : 
but  acknowledging  its  imperfection  in  working,  and  re- 
nouncing all  confidence  in  works  or  in  our  felves,  itreftech 
upon  the  promifes  of  mercie  in  Jefus  Chri(l-,or  Word  of  re- 
conciliation, whichis  ciiWed  thejvord  of  faith.  Themore 
firme  and  lively  our  faith  is,  the  more  fincerely  it  worketh  : 
themore  fincerely  it  worketh,  the  better  wee  difcerne  and 
unfainedly  acknowledge  ourimperfedlions,  anddifclaime 
all  aflfiance  in  our  owne  righteoufnefie :  and  the  more 
faithfully  wee  renounce  all  confidence  irt  our  works,  the 

more 


Thejpeciallobieii  ofjujUfyingfdith. 


1\ 


more  earneftly  we  feeke  for  falvation  only  by  Chrirt.  Faith 
refteth  upon  Chrift  as  Mediatour,oras  God  and  man  obey- 
ing to  thccur(c<l  deatbof  thecroflTe,  that  from  the  grace  of 
God  wee  might  obtaine  pardon  of  fin,,  and  bee  accepted  as 
righteous  unto  life.  For  this  wee  are  alwayes  to  have  in 
mindj  that  Chrift  is  the  objedlof  faith,  not  abftraflly  and 
nakedly  confidered,  but  Chrift  with  his  benefits,  Chrift  lif- 
ted up  as  the  brazen  Serpent,  Chrift  fct  forth  as  a  propitia- 
toriefacrifice  for  our  fins,  Chrift  as  our  Redeemer  from  fin 
and  death,Chrift  as  he  is  fet  forth  to  the  be  leever :  and  thus 
to  receive  Chrift  and  beleeve  on  him,  is  tobelecve  and  re- 
ceive in  him  ranlbme  from  fin  and  death. 

Chrift  and  his  Apoftles  tefti fie, that  this  is  fpecially  to  be 
preached  ,  viz.  remifsion  of  finnes  in  And,  through  Jeffu 
ChrtPt.  aThis  the  faith  of  all  the  Saints,  [though  it  have 
refpe6ted  everie  part  of  the  Word]  hath  in  (peciall  manner 
re(pe^ed,  craved,  embraced.  But  that  which  is  (pecially  to 
be  preached  and  beleeved ;  that  which  the  faith  of  all  the 
Saints  hath  alwayes  in  fpeciall  manner  refpeflecl,  defired, 
craved,  and  obtained,  that  is  the  fpeciallobjeit  ofjuftifyihg 
fiith.  If  at  any  time  wee  read,  that  the  beleefe  of  a  tempo- 
rarie  promife  was  accounted  for  righteoufnefle ;  it  is,  be- 
cauieitdoth  in  beleeving  the  thing  temporall,  apprehend 
b  him  in  whom  all  the  prornifeiare  Yea  and  Amen :  who  is 
at  leaft  the  removed  obje(5loF  jiiftifying  faith  in  every  thing 
it  apprehendethT  TTTus  ^^rahamhckcvin^  the  promife  of 
feed,  did  apprehend  that  blefledjeedjvhich  hid  from  the 
beginning  beene  promifed,  and  faw  his  day.  Neither  did 
he  looke  at  the  power  of Godj  but  tofutlaine  his  beleefe  of 
a  (ced  before  promifed,  againft  the  temptations  wherewith 
hewasexerciled.  Exprefle  mcntionof  the  fpeciall  mercie 
of  God  we  find  not  in  the  fcrmons  of  the  Apoftles :  but  it 
doth  evidently  follow  of  thofe  things  which  are  preached 
by  them.  For  remiffion  '•  of  fins  doth  prefuppoie  the  mer- 
cieof  God;  and  the  fpeciall  (ubje6l_oftheir  preaching  «is 
remifsionofiinsjbyandfor  the  death  and  refurreiSlion  of 
Jefus  Chrift. 

V  4  That 


Maik.t.r?. 
Ads  20.14. 
I-uk.24.47. 

1  Pet. 1. 21. 

2  Corj.19,1©. 

a  Pfal.jt.5.ancl 
5i.i,2.and  105. 
J- 

Dan.jM^. 
Hoi;  14.  J.  and 
2.19,20. 
Xuk.1.71.  and 
iS.19. 

Gen.15.6. 

jb  Gal.}.8.rtf.     ^ 


;.  p. 


Joh.8.;<f. 


d  Pral.ioj.j.ij. 

and  130.5,4. 

Mic.y.iy. 

Tit  J  5. 

e  Aas2j'.  and 

4.T2.  and  10..  3. 

andT}.j9.aiid 

8.37- 


.i 


6-  -:::. 


7^ 


ThejfecUll  ohjc^i  of  ]ujlifijing  faith. 


anfwtrtd. 


M3nh.16.j6. 
]oh.<y  68. 
rSeBar.  de  J»Bif. 
lih.\.eaf.%. 


'Mark.l-4|. 


Gal.j.i^;, 


Ga!.3.?. 


J 


^o-n.4,2r. 


\  That  which  firft  prickcth  and  fpurreth  the  foulc  to  Chrift, 
I  that  giveth  us  to  underftand  what  the  ibule  principally  rea- 
cheth  at,  and  receiveth  in  Chrifi  But  fin  and  death  urge 
the  foulefor  mercieand  iifetobe  obtained,  prick  and  fpur 
the  foule  tO  goc  forth  of  ft  felfe,  and  receive  Chrift,  and  reft 
upon  him,as  he  Is  otfered  in  theGofpel :  Therefore  it  prin- 
cipally layeth  hold  on  the  free  promifeof  mcrcic  covering 
fin  and  deliverifig  froni  death. 

The  cOnfeffion  of  Teeter  and  thcreft  of  the  Apoftle^  (for 
h^e  made  anfvver  for  them  all,  ai  the  qucftion  was  propoun- 
ded to  therii  all)  ivas  rto  more  in  \vords,  but  of  Chrifts  of- 
fice, Thouart  Chrift  i  and  his  nature,  The  Son  of  the  li- 
ving God.  Butfhallwethinkcthefaithofthe  Apoftles  to 
be  iiDchingbut  a  bare  a  (lent  of  mind  to  that  which  they 
profefted  of  Chrift  ?  Then  (hail  wee  make  the  Devillhim- 
felfc  to  be  as  good  and  true  a  beleever  as  the  Apoftlbs ;  for 
he  profefled  as  much,  O  Jefm  of  N'az.areth,  I  l^orv  yvho 
thoHarty&c-  No  doubt  the  Apoftles  refted upon  Chrift 
for  falvation^andbeleevedin  him  to  be  that  tot  heir  foules, 
and  for  their  nfeand  comfort,  which  they  befeevcd  him  to) 
be.  The  fubjefl  matter  of  their  faith  in  that  point  was,  that 
Jefuswas  the  Chrift:  the  manner  of  beleeving  was  with 
the  heart,  relying  upon  him  for  falvation. 

The  faith  of  ex^(^r4^^»*  was  not  a  bare  aflfent  given  to 
the  promife  of  God,  but  a  confidence  in  the  fpeciall  mercie 
of  God:  for  hee  refted  upon  the  promife,  notonelyin  re- 
gard of  his  pofteritie,  but  alfb  in  regard  of  Chrift,  accor- 
ding tnthat  which  is  faid,  Inthjfeed  jhall  all  nations  of 
the  earth  he  blejfed :  which  feed  the  Apoftle  teacheth  to  be 
Chrift,  and  the  bleftin^  hee  intcrpreteth  to  bee  redemption 
from  the  curfe  of  the  Law,  and  juftification  by  faith.  Abra- 
ham  then  beleeving  the  remiffion  of  finnes  in  and  through 
Jefus  Chrift,  ofnecefsitie  it  will  follow,  that  his  faith  was 
aire<5led  unto  an  exercifed  about  the  fpeciall  mercie  of 
God  in  Jefus  Chrift.  How  then  doth  the  Apoftle  let  out 
v^^r/i^^w/fullbeleefeinthisjfW^^w^^j^r*?^,  that  he, 
■who  had  fremifed,  yvas  able  alfo  to  doe  it  ?  Not  bccaufe 

.    Abrahams 


^ 


Thefi^eaali  ohje^  of jupjying  faith. 


75 


I  Ahrah^ms  faith  did  juftifie  him,  as  hce  did  beleeve  the 
powerof  God  j  butbecaufe  his  jurtifying  faith,  which  was 
■fixed  upon  the  gracious promilc,  did fuftaine it  felfe by  the 
confideration  of  Gods  power,  in  time  of  trial!  betweene 
the  promife  and  the  execution .  AhrAham  had  a  promife  of 
{tidi  J  but  the  execution  is  deferred,  whereupon  his  faith  is 
availed  thus  :  AhtAham  thy  body  is  dead,  thy  wife  hope- 
leflethat  way ;  which  things  i6\\t^  Sarah  for  a  time.  Now 
when  Ahrahams  faith  on  the  promifcs  is  thus  ^ti  upon ', 
againfl:  thefe  arguments  of  unbeleefe,  faith  oppofeth  the 
all-fufficTent'povv'er  of  God,  and  fuftaineth  it  felfe  with  this 
tofifidet-atibri,  God  is  able.  As  another  time,  when  he  was 
tempted  to  offer  up  his  fon  in  (acrifice,  hee  verily  beleeved 
he  fliOuld  receive  him  againe,becau(e  god  wm4  Able  ro  raifc 
him  up  a^aine.  Beleefe  ofGods  power  is  not  the  a6t  of  ju- 
rtifying taith, as  it  juftiHcs ;  but  the  confideration  of  Gods 
power  is  a  prop  and  ftay  to  faith  againft  manifold  temptati- 
ons. And  fo  we  fhall  find  the  Almightie  power  of  God  of- 
ten alledged  to  confirrac  the  wcake  and  wavering  heart.  As 
WSafahs  latjghing,  think«Tg  kiimpo&iblc  to  have  a  chiJdj 
tlic  Lord  faid  to  AhrAhmt*,  Is  any  thing  hard  or  impeJfJ^U 
to  god?  And  againe  toMofes  objecting  whether  all  the 
fifhinthefea  (houldbe  gathered  for  food  for //r/«r/  in  the 
Wildemefle;  the  Lord  anlvvered,  //  the  Lords  handwaxtd 
'^ort^thoHfhait  feey?htthtrmy  ftvordfhall  come  to  pajfc)  or 
"Hot.  And  to  the  Virgin  J/rfr/>,  defiringto  be  further  con- 
firmed touching  the  promife  of  God,  the  Angell  makes  an- 
fwer,  with  God  nothifjg  is  imp  ajfible . 

As  for  the  faith  of  the  Centurion,  fo  much  commended 
by  our  Saviour  Chrift,  it  might  bee  a  ftep  or  meane,  by 
which  hee  was  raifed  of  God  to  a  true  faith  forjuftificati- 
<)nbythe  Melsias;  or  it  may  bee,  it  was  fome  effect  of  a 
juftifyingfaithrbucinitfelfe,  asheedid  oneJy  beleeve  the 
powerof  Chrift  to  healehis  fervant,  it  did  not  juftifie.  Our 
Advcrfaries  themfelvcs  will  no:  ^^y,  thacnaked  aflent  to 
this  truth,  that  Chrift  by  his  bare  word  vg^s  of  power  to 
cure  his  fervant  abfent,  is  fufficicnt  to  juffification,  which 
yet 


"BelUtm  Hit 
Rhtm.  %AnntX- 

'^«l»I..'.24. 


Rom.4,20. 


Hcb.tt.T5, 


Genef.18.1^. 


Numb, 11. 13. 


Luii.jj, 


Luk.".?. 


ri.' 


74 


Luk.7.<f. 

Joh.3.i(=. 

Johit.jj. 
Aftsts-jp. 


Roir.5.iy. 
Epheri.15. 
ASti  I5-". 
Joh.i.ij. 


tg. 


Adl$  10. -fj. 


T)^^  Ipeciall  object  efiuflifjing  faith. 


1  yet  is  the  iubftance  of  his  confefsion.   If  they  anlvvcr,  that 


theprofefsionof  his  faith  is  here  mentioned  according  to 
the  prefent  occafion :  they  muft  withall  confefTe  it  fol- 
loweth  not,  that  becaufe  none  other  a6l  of  his  faith  is  here 
expreflcd,  therefore  there  was  nothing  farther  in  his  faith 
unco  juftification  before  God.  Surely  if  hebeleevedtolal- 
vation,he  beleeved  fomewhat  elfe  that  made  him  to  belceve 
what  is  here  noted :  heebeleeved  (bmewhat  el(e,that  made 
him  to  lay,  Lordtlam  not  worthy  that  thoH^Hldeft  tnter 
under  my  roofe. 

Ghrirt  is  cverie  where  made  the  thing  which  faith  em- 

braceth  to  falvation,  and  whom  it  doth  looke  unto  and  re? 

fpeft,as  it  doth  make  us  righteous  in  the  fight  of  God.  God 

[0  loved  th^  worldy  that  hee  gave  his  onely  IregottenSon^ 

thativhefoeverheleeveth  in  himfhould  notperi/hxl'fttha'^ 

everlafiirrg  life,  I  am  the  refttrreSiion  and  the  lifey  he  that 

heieeveth  inmeti  though hee  "were  deadyet  Jhall  heelive. 

Andby  him  all  that  beleeve are  jufiified  from  all  things, 

from  which yee  could notbe  jufiified  by  the  Law  of  Mpi'es. 

Beleeve  on  the  Lord  JefusChriB^t  and  thou  {halt  befaved 

and  thy  houfe.  That  they  may  receive  forgivenefie  of  fins^ 

and  inheritance  among  them  which  are  fanHified  by  faith, 

that  is  in  me.    Being  jufiified  freely  by  his  grace  ■>  through 

the  redemption  which  is  in  Jeftu  (^hrift :  whom  CJpd  hath 

fet  forth  to  be  apropitiation  through  faith  in  his  bloud  for 

theremiffionof  fins  that  arepaFt,through  the  forbearance 

of  God,  Itiswithusaswithmalefaclonrs;  the  Kings  par- 

I  dononely  received  doth  acquit  them,  andreftore  them  to 

1  libertie :  and  Gods  mercieinChrift  covering  fin,  received 

Ibyalivelyfdith,  doth  let  usfiree  from  feare  of  damnation. 

I  It  is  true,  that  juftifying  faith  doth  give  aflenttoeveriear- 

I  tide  of  faith,  and  cleave  to  everie  Commandement-:  but  it 

I  obcaineth  remiflionof  finnes,asitreceivethGods  pardon 

in  Chrift.  To  him  give  all  the  Trophets  witnejfe ,  that 

!  through  his  name^  whofoever beleeveth  in  himtjhall receive 

remifsion  of  finnes. 

Righteouineflre  is  everie  where  tied  unto  faith,  even  to 

faith 


Thejpecidll  oh]  eB  of  iuflifpng  faith. 


75 


faith  in  Chrift,  whom  onely  it  doth  and  can'  looke  unto  as  it 
juftifieth.  /  count  all  things  hut  lojfe  for  thf  excellent 
knowledge  fake  oj  Chrifi  Jefusmy  Lord-,  for  whom  I  have 
counted  allthtngs  loJ[e,anddoe  judge  them  to  be  dung  that 
I  might  win  Chrij}^  And  might  kc found  in  him,  that  is-inot 
havtngminc  owne  ri^hteouj^ejfe  which  is  of  the  Larc,  but 
that  vthich  is  through  the  faith  of  Chrifi -ithe  righteoufneffe 
rvhichisof  God  through  faith.  For  looke  as  nothing  in  a 
poore  man  can  make  himrichjfiirther  than  it  doth  get  riches 
into  his  poficision ;  fb  nothing  in  us  finners  can  make  us 
righteous  tb  life,  further  than  it  doth  lay  hold  on  luch  a  righ- 
tcoufnefle  which  can  take  away  (in>  and  make  us  righteous 
CD  the  receiving  of  Me  ctcrnalJ. 

Faith  is  called  the  faith  of  Chrijh  becau^Chriftis  fee 
whonii faith  dothapppehend  and  receive  to  righteoutnefle 
and  life;  "according  to  that  of  theEvangeliftj/Zr^rA^^  b^ 
iee'veth  ok  the  Son  of  God  hath  Itfe  everiafling. 

That  is  theprincipall  objefl  of  faith,  for  which  embra- 
ced and  received  byfaith,  eternall  life  is  given  from  grace. 
But  eternall  liteus  given  of  jgracc, -for  Ctjiftembraoed  or 
rerteduponbyfaith'j;  o-\   <  i.'    ;  yr-S.-j^  jm  ••ti--Ofic  :;>ri  . 

a  To  beleeve  Chri^  Head  ^ndHfen  ,  as  the  Apoftles 
taught  him,is  true  beleefe:  but  that  is  not  barely  tobeleevc 
the  hiftorieofhis  death  and  refurreilion,  but  the  fruits  and 
benefits  thcr«5of,andthatv^th  affiance.  Itis'fo  tobeleeve 
the  death  and  refurccdlion  of  Chrift,  as  ther&by't^iooke 
for  forgiveneflfe  of  finnesj  whichistoput  Oiircrufiih  tbe 
ipeciaUVnercie  of  God  through  Jefus  Chrift.  This'is  plaine 
by  xh^vtoxdsQ^ Martha '^  for  when  Chrift  asked  htv,Doefi- 
thou  beUeve  this-, that  )ivhe[eever  belee\jeth  on^mee fkall 
not  dyceti/erlafifngIy?$\vt'SiVA\^ftz&i^ 
that  thou  art  Chnfi:  that  is,  I  cannot  donbtibut'that  thofe 
'that  cleave  to  thet^fhail  have  lifeeverlafting,  ttachingthat 
thefe  confefsions  impJy  an  affiance  and  tiuft  of  all  good 
throu{;h  him.  :The  Eunuch  his  prefefs ion  vvas^  /  beleeve 
tharjeftci  Chnft  is  ihcScifMf-God :  bat  the  faith  of  this 
Euhuchwas  a  pan  iciilar  confidence  of  heart,  whereby  hee 

embraced 


Rom-jaa-anJ 


Phil  }.%9. 


Ga\.i.i6. 


1  Joh-3  ii,r5. 


Joh  tf.47.  and 
17.5. 

a  Rom-ic. 10,11. 
Rom.  10.  J. 
I  Cor. 15. 3. 


y>h-ii-i6  ^■; 


AftyS 


?■- 


16 


The  J^eciall  ob]eci  ofjuftifjingfaith. 


Joh,i.49j5o. 


Aass-J'« 


Rom.?.J4. 


embraced  Chrift  his  Saviour,  and  beleeved  on  him  for  his 
particular  benefit  and  comfort.  Nathaniel  profeffed  of 
Chrill,  that  hee  was  the  King  oflfraely  that  he  was  the  Son 
of  Gody  and  To  much  in  generall  the  Devils  bcleevcand 
know :  Was  7{athaniels  faith  nothing  but  a  bare  per* 
fwafion  that  Chrift  was  the  Sonne  of  God?  yes,  it  was  a 
perfwafion  joyned  with  affiance,  for  hee  rcfted  upon  him, 
and  fo  beleeved  the  promife  of  merciein  him.  God  hdth 
raifeduf  Chrifi  to  he  a  prince  and  Saviour y  to  givr  repen- 
tance to  Ifrael  y.and  forgivtnejfe  of  fins  :  and  to  beleeve 
Chrift  aPrince  and  Saviour  raited  from  the  dead,  andfet  at 
the  right  hand  of  the  Father,  doth  imply  truft  and  affiance  I 
in  him  for  forgivenefle  of  fins  and  life  everlasting,  through  I 
the  grace  of  God. 

§.  2.  It  tso^6led,that  to  beleeve  the  power  of  God  is 
jaftifying  faith  :  for  our  Saviour  required  no  more  of  the 
blind  man,  than  to  beleeve  that  hee  vva«  able  to  hcalchim. 
And  the  Leper  leemeth  to  doubt  of  his  will,  bntwas  well 
perfwaded  of  his  power.  But  it  is  one  thing  to  lookc  unto 
Chrift  for  bodily  health,  or  to  ceccivc  a  temporall  blef- 
fing:  another  to  beleeve  in  him  to  juftification.  For  the 
faith  which  Chrift  requires  to  juftification,  is  fijcha  faith  as 
doth  acquit  us  from  our  fins,and  doth  procure  us  righteouf^ 
nefle  ••  But  many  were  healed  by  our  Saviour,that(for  ought 
can  be  proved)  were  not  aequiaed  fi:.om  their  fins.  And  i(^ 
thefc  blind  men  had  onely  beleeved,  that  he  was  able  to  cure 
the  malady  of  their  eyes,  notwithftanding  this  their  faiths 
their  Ibules  had  beeneuncured,  their  fins  uncovered.  Many 
that  were  cured  of  their  bodily  infirmities,  were  alfb  healed 
of  their  fpirituall  difeafes ;  not  becauie  they  beleeved  hig 
power  to  help  them,  but  bccaufethey  reived  upon  him  as 
their  onely  S'aviouc,  <)nnV/.  i ,' i  3 .:! :  ^V-iiA'^  nt  u-.?-  •*  vuw 
And  the  teftimony  it 'fdlfefliewetV,"thacrheb'hridi 
men  beleeved  Chrift  tobee  the; (J^<f//z«f>in times paft  pro*' 
mifcd,  of  the  Father,  and  now  exhibitecf :  io  that  theyj 
might  beleeve  tp  juftification,  but  their bdeefc of  hrsoovi 
nipotencie  did  inot  juftifie  them.  The v^riter  to  the  /t/tfi-l 

hewe: 


§.  J. 

Matth.9»7,»o. 


Mark.  1.40  • 
-BelUr.  dt  Jufiif. 
lib.l.tsp.i. 


Heb.ii.?3.3'(>3y- 


TheJpeciaU  ohjeci  ofjufitfymgfdth. 


11 


brr»es  fhevveth  in  divers  examples,  that  by  jurtifying  faith 
feme  [ubdued  KingdomeSi  other  fame  floft  the  mouths  of 
LfOMSfCevz^iriG  (juenched  the  force  of  fire  ^  others  efcaped  the 
edgeofthefword,  &c.   All  which  things  (though  tcmpo- 
rall)  wereacchieved  by  jiiftifying  faith,  which  is  the  hand 
of  the  people  of  God  to  receive  good  by  :  but  faith  juftifted 
not,  as  it  was  occupied  about,  or  looked  unto  thefe  things, 
but  as  it  was  carried  to  an  higher  objeft.  The  healing  of  !i''3  53 
corporall  diieafcs  was  a  feale  unto  us,  that  Chrift  is  our  deii-  j  '^^""^ 
verer  from  fin  and  death  (as  the  Scriptures  teftificj  and  our 
adverfariesconfeiTe)  and  therefore  in  beleeving  the  mercic 
of  God  towards  them,  in  healing  of  their  dileafes,  they 
might  forthwith  conceive,  that  of  his  frecgracehee  would 
bepleafedto  forgive  their  hns,  which  arc  the  true  caufcs  of 
all  our  maladies. 

Itisagaincobjefled,  that  in  the  Creed  is  contained  the 
whole  objed  of  juliifying  faith :  but  in  it  there  is  no  men- 
tion of  the  fpeciall  mercie  of  God-  In  this  objedtion  there 
is  a  two-foM  mifiaking ;  for  in  the  Creed  \s  contained  the 
obje£t  of  faith  which  isbclceved;  that  is,  the  fiimme  of 
dodrinetobebeleeved  to  falvation  is  there  explained;  but 
here  wee  fpeake  of  theobjedlof  juftifyingfaith,  by  which 
wee  beleeve.  The  do6>rine  of  faith  is  one  thing,  the  private 
adtof  the  heart  relying  upon  the  promilcs  of  mercie  ano- 
ther. Now  when  wee  enquire,  what  is  the  objed^  of  jofti- 
fyingfaith,  thequeftion  isnot  what  is  the  fumme of  faith, 
or  of  the  articles  to  bee  beleeved,  but  what  the  faith  of  the 
heart  in  all  thefe  articles  which  itbeleeveth,  dothflrft  and 
principally  looke  unto,  reft  upon,  and  receive  to  falvation. 
For  when  all  Chriftians  proftffe,  and  hiftorically  beleeve 
all  the  articles  of  tiic  Chrirtian  faith;  yet  many  are  not 
juftified  or  laved,  becauie  they  beleeve  not  zs  they  outzht : 
whence  it  is  evident,  that  bare  affent  to  thearticles  of  Re- 
ligion, is  not  that  faith  which  juliifies  or  laves ;  but  ano- 
ther of  farre  different  nature  is  required,  i^  wee  would  be 
partakers  of  thefe  bleflTings.  Againe ,  verball  mem  ion  of 
Gods  fpeciall  mercie  there  is  not  any  in  the  Creed,  bm 


4' 
,8.17. 


'J>-9' 


rcc 


vC- 


78 


Fdth  in  Gedfiameth  his  image  in  the  heart. 


jerem.5r.j5. 

Efay  icr.j.  and 


§•1- 

faith  in  Codi 
fpeciaU  mercie 
framethhit  imtige 
inthebfrt. 


really  it  is  included.  Fortobeleeve  in  God,  is  to  depend 
upon  his  mercie  reaching  to  the  pardon  of  onr  offences :  To 
beleeveinChriftjis  torelyeuponhim  as  the  Author  of  re- 
demption,rcconciIiation,and  peace  with  God :  which  doth 
neceffarily  imply  the  (peciall  mercie  of  God.  And  in  the 
Creed  weebeleeve  the  rcmiflion  of  fins,  which  article  can- 
not bee  explained  according  to  the  do5trine  of  the  Gofpel, 
without  beleefe  in  the  {peciall  mercieof  God,  and  confi- 
dence thereon.  Theconclufion  is,  The  Word  of  God  is  the 
generallobje61:of  juftifying  faith ;  the  fpeciall  promifes  of 
mercie  and  forgivenefle  in  Chrift  Jeliis,  is  the  (peeiall  ohjcd 
of  faith,  as  it  juftifieth. 

§.  5.  This  beleefe  in  the  rich  mercie  of  God  framcth 
the  image  of  God  in  our  hearts,  and  imprinteth  the  vertues 
of  Chrifts  death  upon  the  foule,  as  by  application  the  feale 
I  doth  fet  its  ftamp  upon  the  wax.  A  man  cannot  walk  in  the 
I  SuHjbut  he  muftbeare  its  hue :  no  more  can  hee  beleeve  in 
the  grace  and  mercicof  God,  to  thepardon  of  his  offences, 
but  he  muft  beare  the  image  of  Gods  mercie  upon  his  foule. 
And  fo  faith  in  Chrift  doth  encite  to  the  uniforme  ftudious 
pra6lice  of  pietie  towards  God,  who  of  his  gracious,  free, 
undeferved  love  and  mercie,  is  plealed  to  repute  Beleevers 
as  his  fbns  by  adoption,  and  compaffc  them  with  his  fa- 
vours ;  and  of  mercie ,  kindneffe ,  long-fuffering ,  forbea- 
rance, fbrgivenefTe  towards  men,looking  to  God  for  its  pat- 
tcrne,  whom  it  muft  and  ought  to  follow-  The  Bcleever 
cannot  put  on  Chrifi  as  a  Juftifier,  but  hee  murt  put  on  the 
bowels  of  mercies,  kindneffe,  humblcneffe  of  mind,  meek- 
nefTe,  long-fufFering,forbearance,&c.  and  thecloferheput- 
teth  on  Chrift  untorighteoufhefTcthe  more  quick  and  ope- 
rative be  thefe  graces  of  the  Spirit,and  more  lively  the  ope- 
rations themfelves  that  iffue  from  them,  as  quickened  and 
animated  by  that  faith. 


CHAP, 


■'-  1 


Juflifying  Faith  is  a  f  articular  confidence. 


19 


CHAP.  VII. 

I.. 

J^Jfifying  Faith  is  a  ^Articular  and  certaine  confidence^ 

refiing  upon  the  ntercie  of  God  in  Chriftfor  pardon 

andjorgivenejfe  ;  not  an  ajfttred  perfwafion 

that  oar  fns  be  already  pardoned 

and  forgiven* 

§.  1 . 1  Unifying  Faith  doth  not  onely  beleeve  the  pro- 
I  mife  ofmercie  in  general!  i   as  that  there  is  for- 
givenelVe  for  them  that  lay  hold  upon  it :  but  it  rclyeth  up- 
on the  prorriife  for  our  ovvne  particular,  and  depends  whol- 
ly thereupon,  looking  after  no  other  help.    For  trutt  or 
confidence  importeth  the  application  of  fome  good  to 
him  that  trulteth :  and  lb  bee  that  cafteth  himfelfe  upon 
the  promifesof  mercie ,  drawes  neerc  unto  Chrift,  throwes 
himfelfeinto  his  armes,  andgraf>s  about  him  with  all  his 
might.  Looke  how  the  poore  infant,  aflrighted  with  the 
apprehenfion  of  ibme  danger,  clings  clofe  to  the  parent 
for  fuccour  and  defence ;  or  a  man  in  danger  of  drowning 
laycs  hold  upon  fome  willow  that  growes  uponthebank, 
and  hangs  thereon  for  fafetie:  fo  doth  the  foule,purfijec[ 
by  the  terroursof  the  Law,  and  affrighted  with  the  ugly 
fight  of  finne,  flye  withlpeed  untoJefusChrift,  asheeis 
held  forth  in  the  Gofpcl,  hang  upon  him,  and  to  dye  for 
it  will  never  lole  his  hold.    For  in  him  it  apprehends 
plemifull  redemption,  and  out  of  him  it  knowes  no  fuc- 
cour is  to  bee  found.   In  this  fenfe  faith  applyeth  the  pro- 
mi  fe  of  grace  to  a  mans  felfein  particular,  that  is,  it  parti- 
cularly rclyeth  upon  thegraceof  God  injefus  Chrift  to 
obtaine  pardon  and  forgivencfl'e.  Even  as  they  that  were 
ftnngwith  thcfieric  ferpents,  Aid  correand  looke  to  the 
brazen  Serpent ,  beleeving  to  find  the  healing  of  thofe 
deadly  ftings  that  were  fattened  in  them  :  thus  a  Ibule, 
ftungwith  fin  and  feare of  damnation,  cof-imeth  by  faith 
toChrift,  relying  on  iHm,  truftingto  find  in  and  through 

him, 


5.1. 

certain*  cooji- 
df'ce. 


Numb.iT.j. 
Joh.3. 14,15, 


8o 


Jufiiffing  Faith  is  a  f  articular  confidence. 


Matth.Ti.i8. 

Efay  55•l)2• 
I3oh.^24• 
Job.3I6,36. 
Afts  10.4}.  and 
IJ.J9. 
Rom.io.?,io. 


Gal,3.ro. 


Deur.<^.5. 
Joh.7.57- 

AftsK^.ji, 


him>  cureof  chore  deadly  evils  wherewith  it  is  wounded- 
If  a  Prince  (hould  offer  a  generall  pardon  to  Rebels,  caufing 
it  to  bee  proclaimed,  that  if  they  would  lay  downe  armes, 
fubmit  themfelves,  and  flie  to  his  mercie,they  fliould  be  re- 
ceived to  favour,  and  wee  (hould  fee  many  hereupon  caft 
downe  their  weapons,  and  fue  for  mercie ;  would  wee  not 
prefently  know,  that  they  beleeved  thepromife  that  they 
(hould  bee  pardoned  ?  So  when  Chrirt  faith  to  finners. 
Come  unto  me,or,Beleeve  on  mee,  and  I  will  eafeyou,what 
faith  ('thinkcwee)  havefinners  who  refbrt  unto  him?  Is  it 
not  a  beleefe,  that  hee  will  (according  to  his  Word)  de- 
liver them  from  iinneand  death,  and  reftore  them  to  life 
eternall? 

If  there  bee  a  particular  word,  or  that  which  is  equiva- 
lent, then  there  is  a  particular  faith.  But  there  is  a  particu- 
lar word,  or  that  which  is  equivalent.  For  the  thirftie  and 
barren  foule,  that  is  ftung  with  the  terrours  of  the  Law  : 
they  that  labour  and  are  heavie  laderti  are  invited  to  come 
unto  Chriftj  and  exhorted,  entreated,  perfwaded,  comman- 
ded tobeleeve ;  and  the  promife  is,  JVhofoever  beleeveth  in 
himjhallnot  ferijht  but  have  evertafling  life  :  which  is  as 
much  ASfThomas ythou  art  burdened  and  doeft  labour, thou 
art  wearie  and  thirftie,  come  thou  unto  mee,  behold,  I  in- 
vite thee ;  beleeve  thou,  for  unto  thee  doe  I  reach  forth  the 
promife  of  mercie,  receive  it,  and  thou  fbaltlive.  For  the 
I  particulars  are  ever  in  their  generals.  How  can  wee  prove, 
that  John  or  James  are  by  nature  under  wrath  &  the  cur(e  ? 
otherwife  it  cannot  be  proved  than  thus,(/firfed  is  every  one 
that  continueth  not  in  all  things,that  are  written  in  the  book^ 
of  the  Law  to  doe  them-,.  How  can  we  prove  that  T%<»w4» 
or  Teter  are  bound  to  love  the  Lord,  and  to  abftaine  from 
murther,fornication)theft ;  butbecaufe  it  is  faid  to  all  men, 
Thottjhalt  love  the  Lord,  Thoufhalt  notfieale  ?  &c.    And 
thus  it  is  faid  to  z\\,Let  everie  one  that  is  a  thirfi  come  unto 
tne,afiddrinke.  Beleeve  in  the  Lord  Jeftts^andthon (halt  be 
faved:  whence  everie  thirftie  and  burdened  foulc  may  con- 
cludcj  I  ought  to  beleeve,  God  calleth  and  commandetb 

me 


Jupfyingfmh  is  af  articular  con^dcnce. 

metobeleeve;  heehach  given  mee  his  promife,  and  offers 
imercie,  and  beleeving  I  fliallbe  iaved. 

The  faith  oftrueBeleevers  goeth  further  than  the  faith 
of  Devils  can  doe.  But  they  may,and  doe  beleeve  or  know, 
that  Chrift  died  in  gcnerall  for  linners,  and  that  they  {haJI 
befaved  who  beleeve  in  him.  If  juftifying  faith  have  not 
in  it  fome  particular  confidence,  then  it  is  notoppofed  to' 
de/pairc,  fo  as  to  cxpell  it.  For  things  that  will  not  en-i 
dure  the  one  the  other,  muft  have  contrarie tie ;  as  fire  and 
water:  ifthe  one  doe  not  fight  and  drive  forth  the  other,; 
then  may  they  dwell  together.  But  true  faith  and  utter 
defperation  cannot  ftand  together ,  but  doe  expell  each 
other.  Moreover,  true  faiih  in  Chrift  doth  breed  confi- 
dence and  boJdnefle;  according  to  that.  Let  us  enter  with 
confidence  and  boldnejfe  through  faith  tnhim.  True  faith 
therefore  bath  in  it  particular  confidence  in  the  grace  of 
God.  For  as  nothing  can  make  hot,  which  hath  not  heat 
in  it  fclfe :  fo  nothii^  can  make  confident ,  which  after 
ibme  manner  hath  not  confidence  in  it.  To*  receive  is  to 
cake  in  particular  to  a  mans  felfe,  or  to  apprehend  and  lay 
hold  of  for  conveying  atbingtohimfelfe.  But  to  ^^  beleeve 
onChrift  and  to  receive  Chnftj  doe  both  import  the  fame 
thing.  Therefore  to  beleeve  on  Chrift,  is  to  reft  upon  him 
for  the  conveying  of  his  benefits  particularly  unto  us- 
Meat  nouriflietfa  not,  unlefle  it  bee  eaten  anddjgefted;  a 
plaifterhealesnot,  if  itbcenotapplyed;  a  potion  will  not 
worke,  if  it  be  not  received,  (^hrifl  is  the  true  bread  ofltfe, 
that  came  datvnefi-om  heaven,  upon  whom  we  mu't  feed  by 
faith,if  we  would  be  partakers  of  his  benefits :  and  feed  up- 
onhim  vve  cannot,  if  we  doc  not  particularly  beleeve  in  him 
foronr  (elves.  The  worke  of  redcmprion  remaines  proper 
"CoChrift:  but  the  benefit  of  his  death  is  communicated 
tocverie  member  of  his  myfticall  body,  for  their  juftifica- 
tion :  And  how  can  wee  hope  to  have  our  finnes  forgiven,  i{ 
weebe  not  made  one  with  him  by  faith,  and  reft  upon  the 
promife  made  in  him  for  pardon  ?  That  profefsion  which 
T^aul  makes,  may  here  be  coniidered »  I  ktrow  in  whom  I  \ 

G  have  ) 


Jam.r.6. 
Mattb.tf.jo. 
and  14.3  r. 
Rom. 4-10. 
Heb.io.22. 


a  Matth.i.jo. 
and  2.30. 
Joh.17.8. 
b  Joh.1.12. 

Cyl.2.(;. 

Rom.i.ii.rj. 
H.b.S.ij, 


JOh{?.35i» 


rr- 


g  2  Faith  is  cert  aim  in  the  event  ^  not  ever  in  fenfe . 


aTJm.i.iJ. 


ttnth '»  certatns 
in  the  evft,  n*t 
net  infenjt. 


Joh.J/iJ. 


have  heleevedi  and  lam  ferfroaded  that  hee  U  able  to  ks^p 
that  thing  wheretfith  I  have  entrnfied  himi  [or  delivered 
uptohuks^ptKg:]  where  it  is  apparent,  that  tobelecveis 
to  commit  ourlelves  to  Cbriflstruft  or  keeping,  or  to  reft 
our  foules  upon  the  performance  of  the  gracious  promifcs, 
which  God  of  his  rich  grace  in  JefusChrift  hatfj  made  un- 
to us. 

§.  1,  This  faith  is  certaine,  though  mixed  wit-h  many 
doubtings  by  reafon  of  our  weaknefle  :    Certaine  and 
aflured  in    regard  of  the  event   and  thing  beleeved, 
not    in  regard  of  the   fenfe  and  feeling  of  him  who 
beleeveth.  Whether  his  heart  bee  ftedfaft  in  faith,  or 
treacling  through    much    unbeleefe  ;    yet  unfainedJy 
beleeving  with  a  well-rooted  confidence  (though  with 
much  unbeleefe )  hee  (hall  bee  fure  of  the  thing  pro- 
mifed.  For  the  promife  is  made  good  to  him  that  truly 
receivethit,  not  for  the  ftedfaft  manner  of  receiving,  but 
for  the  thing  received,  which  is  Chrift,  Now.  looke  as  a 
trembling  palfey  hand  may  take  the  lame  thing,  which  a 
more  fteddie  one  dothtake,  though  the  manner  bee  divers, 
the  one  taking  it  with  (haking.,..  the  other  without  any' 
trembling:  fo  an  heart  of  faith ,  which  yet  fhaketh  and 
]  doubteth  through  much  unbeleefe ,  may  take  Chrift ,  as 
I  well  as  an  heart  doth    which  is  more  fully  perfvvaded ; 
and  therefore  fhall  have  the  grace  promifed  for  his  fake, 
who  is  received  by  faith-  The  promife  is  unWeriiUyfVhofo- 
ever  beleeveth  in  Chrifi  Jhall not  perjjh,  bm  have  everla- 
fling  life :  it  is  not,  whofoever  is  fully  aflured,  or  certainly 
per&^adedof  his  falvation,but  whofoever  unfainedly  belee- 
veth in  Chrift,  fliall  beefaved.  Now  many  a  poore  foule 
may  caft  himfelfe  upon  Chrift ,  and  lay  hold  upon  him 
with  purpofe  through  Gods  grace  never  to  leave  him,  as 
being  aflured  without  wavering  in  this  particular,  that  it 
isbeftbothfimplyand  in  comparifon,  to  draw  necre  unto 
God,  and  relye  upon  his  grace;  and  fo  in  event  is  iiire  of 
falvation,  who  yet  would  give  a  world  to  bee  aflured  of 
Gods  favour,, and  fully  perfwaded  that  his  fins  are  pardo- 
ned. 


Faith  ts  certaine  in  the  event ^  not  ever  in  fenfe,  8  j 


ned.  An  houfe  well  builded  upon  a  rocke  is  as  furc  as  the 
foundation  :  cveriething  hanging  on  a  pin  orpeg,  is  as  furc 
as  the  pin  or  peg  on  which  ithangeth  :  Trueftith  firmely 
groundeth  it  ieJfe  upon  the  faithfuil  promifes  of  Ood,  and 
receiveth  them  as  better  than  life  it  fclfe,  from  which  it  will 
notbewithdrawneby  anycarnall  allurements:  and  there- 
fore in  event  it  cannot  mifcarrie,  for  the  ground  is  firme  and 
unchangeable. 

The  truth  of  God  initfelfe  is  more  certaine  than  any 
thing  that  can  bee  apprehended  by  the  ienfes,  but  it  is  not 
evermore  fo  apprehended  by  us:  and  faith  which  buildeth 
upon  the  infallible  truth  of  God,  commingto  him  when 
hee  calJeth,  relying  upon  his  grace,  becaufe  ne  hathfpokcn, 
is  in  event  no  leflc  fure,  than  the  foundation  upon  whic^h  it 
leaneth  is  certaine  and  unmoveable ;  but  in  the  fenfe  of  the 
Bcleever  it  is  not  alwayes  fo :  neither  are  matters  of  flith 
received  by  us  with  fuch  ccrtaintie ,  as  arc  other  things 
fubjeft  totbefenfes,  in  tJiemfelves  leffe  certaine.  Things 
are  to  us  according  as  wee  conceive  them,  which  is  not  ever 
anl'werable  to  the  evidence  of  the  thing  in  it  felfe,  or  to 
the  certaintiein  regard  of  the  event.  Things  moftfure  in 
themfelves  are  fometimcs  but  dimmely  difccrned  of  us, 
becaufe  our  eye-fight  is  imperfecl ;  and  things  lefle  evident 
in  themfelves  doe  appeareto  us  moll  cleaieand  manifeft, 
when  they  come  within  thecompafleof  fenfc  or  reafon  re- 
maining in  us. 

Befides,-  the  promiles  of  mcrcie  in  Chrifl:  being  the 
highert  and  moft  fpirituall,  it  is  the  hardcft  point  of  fervice 
in  Chriftian  warfare  firmely  to  belecve  them  :  andthedaily 
weaknefles  which  wee  clpie  in  our  ielves,  the  many  and 
flrong  pafiflons  which  ftill  warre  within  us,  and  many 
times  prevaile,  doeimpell  the  mind  toditiruft.  When  a- 
Chriftian  calleth  to  mind  what  Itrength  worldly  allure- 
ments have  in  him,  how  often  hee  yeeldeth  unto  affaults  in 
manypettie  temptations,  howweake  andfraile,  dull  and 
negligent  hee  is  in  the  duties  ot  Chriftianitie  and  his  parti- 
cular calling:  the  confciouihede  of  thefe  things  will,  no 
_^  G  a  queftion, 


J'l: 


84 


Fatth  is  cenatnc  v/k  the  event^  nop  &t'er  in  [finfi. 


3  Tin-..:  •12. 


queftion,  trouble  the  eye  of  faith.  Not  that  the  comfort 
of  a  Chriftian  is  grounded  upon  his  ftrength  of  grace,  or 
any  goodworke  that  isor  can  bee  done  by  him:  but  be- 
caufehisbeleefein  the  mercieof  God  cannot  bee  greater 
than  his  ftrength  to  overcome  worldly  allurements, 
whereby  hee  might  bee  vvithdrawne  from  God,  or  care  to 
yeeld  unirbrme,lincerejaiid  ccnftant  obedience  to  all  Gods 
Commandements. 

Againe,  it  is  one  thing  to  have  a  thing  furely,  another 
thing  to   know  I   have  it  fuccly.    Wee   Iceke   many 
things  that  wee  have  in  our  hands  :    wee  have  many 
things  that  wee  thinke  wee  have  loft:  lb  a  Beleever, 
who  hath  a  furebeleefe,   yet  doth  not  alwaycs.  know 
that  hee  fo  beleeveth,  feeketh  but  findeth  it  not;  nay, 
thinketh  hee  is  altogether  without  faith ,  when  bee  hath 
it  urifainedly.   A  man  unregenerate,  that  is  wholly  cor- 
rupt, fecth  little  or  no  corruption  in  faimlelfe :  yea,  af- 
ter  due,  ferious,and  long  examination*  many  diibrders  may 
fecretly  lurke  in  the  heart  of  a  man  lanflified,  which  hee 
doth  not  efpie :  And  is  it  then  any  marvell  that  a.  true 
Beleever  Oiould  bee  unable  (fometimes  at  leaft)  to  fay  that 
hee  doth  beleeve?  yea,  that  hee  fliouldnotfiindir,  though 
hee  make  diligent  fearch  and  enquirie  into  his  owne  heart ' 
about  it.  Looke  as  children  live  in  the  womb,  and  know 
not  that  they  doe  live:  lb  it  is  with  many  true  beleeving 
ibules,  who  long  belceve,  before  they  come  to  fee  them- 
felves  beleeve,  and  be  able  by  a  refiexed  operation  of  mind 
tofay,  I  k»ow  onwhom  I  have  beleeved.  Amanofacon- 
trite  fpirit,  beleeving  that  his  fins  are  pardonable,  earneftly 
defiring  remifsionof  finnes  by  the  merits  ofChrift,  andre- 
ftingupon  Chrift  alone  for  falvation,  afluredly  hee  recei- 
vech  forgivcnefle,  although  hee  be  vexed  withfcruples  and 
temptations ,  and  want  the  afliirance  and  perfvafion  in 
himfelfe  that  his  fins  bee  remitted.   For  faith  is  neceflarie 
to  falvation:  but  full  aflurance  that  I  doe  beleeve  in  that 
fort,  is  not  of  like  necefsitie.   And  if  a  man  may  beleeve 
unfainedly,  who  is  not  fully  afTured  that  be  doth  fo  beleeve, 

then 


Fatth  as  it  juflifes  is  arefting  en  ChriU  for  far  don.  8  5 


then  faith  may  bee  certaine  in  the  event,  when  itisnotcer- 
laine  to  the  fcnle  of  the  Beleevcr. 

§.  5 .  But  what  faith  is  neceffarie,  to  wit,  on  mans  part, 
to  Jurtification?  Is  it  an  aflured  perlwafion  of  our  parti- 
cular election,  or  that  ourfinnes  be  already  pardoned  and 
forgiven  ?  No :  It  is  one  thing  to  reft  on  Chrift  obeying 
to  the  curfed  death  of  the  crofle,  that  I  may  obtaine  par- 
don and  life  everlafting  from  the  grace  of  God  ;  which  is 
cheaA  of  true  beleefe,  required  to  juftification :  another 
to  bcleeve  that  I  am  one  of  Gods  particular  eledt  people, 
and  that  myfinnes  are  pardoned  and  done  away;  which 
is  a  privi ledge  of  grace,  granted  to  him  whobeleeveth,  is 
ifeaied  by  the  Spirit,  and  knoweth  afluredly  that  hee  belee- 
vetb.  It  is  not  an  aftion  of  Chriftian  faith,  previous  or  fun- 
damentallto  jufHfication,  foramanto  beleeve  himfelfeto 
be  one  of  Godseledt :  for  wee  come  to  know  our  eledHon 
by  the  effe6^s  thereof,  as  Faith,Juftification,San6tification. 
Wee  muft  firft  read  the  eft'eds  of  Gods  love  in  our  hearts, 
and  fee  that  hee  hath  wrought  in  us  the  faving  graces  of 
faith,  love,  hope,  feare,  &c.  and  iealedus  by  the  fpiricof 
promile,  before  wee  can  come  to  know  his  eterni  11  decree 
and  purpole  towards  us  :  therefore  the  beleefe  of  our  par-  \ 
ticular  cledHon  is  an  aft  of  faith  following  juftification,  not  | 
precedent  to  it. 

Nomanisjuftifiedbybeleevinghimfeltetobcejuft,  nor 
pardoned,  by  beleeving  that  he  is  pardoned  :  but  if  his  be- 
leefe be  true,  hee  muft  be  truly  juft,  before  be  can  or  ought 
to  beleeve  himlelfe  to  bee  juft  ;  and  a6lually  pardi^ncd, 
before  hee  can  be  aifured  that  hee  is  pardoned.  This  is  the 
order  of  ipiricuall  blelTings  conferred  upon  us  in  Chrift, 
Faith  is  the  band  vvhereby  wee  are  united  unto  Chrift ;  af- 
ccrUnion  followeth  Communion  with  him;  Juftification, 
Adoption,  San6tifica:ionbe  thebencHts  and  fruits  ofCom- 
muiion ;  3ewg  ntAde  fons  by  faith-,  Cjod  fends  forth  the 
'Spirit  of  his  Son  into  our  hearts,  crying-,  Abha»  Fat  her  y  and 
xhisSfirit  heareth  witnejfe  with  ourjpirit,  that  wee  are  the 
children  of  God :  affurancc  or  certaine  perfwafion  that  our 

G  -^  (innes 


§  3. 

Faith  at  it  jujltfi. 

ethuarenin^ 
I  upan  C''"fl  '» 
I  obtaint pardon. 
I  ZtiKch.de redempt. 
I  liij  cap  11  tit. 

de  htducia  c«l. 

282. 

tMufi-  lac  com.  de  ' 

Remijp. 

<Metfner.  dee, }  • 

Par  inGMl.cap.2. 

Juftif.lib.i,c»p. 
lQ.Uff.2lJ, 

'~4lbizliii  exeictt. 
theel.ptzT  z^i.ad 

3  //«»».  of  faith 

part. I. 

xyiuvufl.  cittfejf. 
art.  if.  is-  art.io. 
l0hemic.  confejf. 
art.6. 

^tllica/i.  confijf. 
aTt.20. 
'iet^ic.  confejf. 

'£ol'on  Walking 
IV  th  God,/»4f. 

J20. 

Temble,  Plea  for 
Grace,/'<»^.258, 
J59,  itfo. 
RoUoc.  dejujiifi- 
cat.  H  min^. 
Syntj^m.  Gra- 
dM  ad  converfi*' 
nem  ^9. 


Gal.f.tf. 
RoiT.8.i5,t<f. 


yi 


8  6  FAtth  (f4  it  jujilfies  is  a  refiing  on  ChriHfor  far  don. 


Efi.T.Ttf,l7,l?. 

Exck.i8ii. 

Prov.28.1j. 

Matth.6. 14,15'. 

Afts  15.30,31. 

Joh.6.»9.and 

n.ij. 

Aasio.4J. 


finnesbee  pardoned  >  followcs  this  witneflc  of  the  Spirit ,  as 
the  fruit  and  effe(5l  thereof.  In  which  it  is  moft  manifelt, 
that,  faith  in  Cbriftis  before  juftification  in  order  of  na- 
ture, though  not  in  time ;  and  juftification  is  precedent  to 
the  fcnfeand  feeling  of  remifsion :  and  therefore  that  be- 
leefe.  which  is  required  on  our  part  to  juftification,  cannot 
be  an  aflurance  that  our  fins  be  pardoned  already ;  unlefle 
the  fame  thing  be  before  and  after  it  (elfe,  and  a  man  be  par- 
doned before  heebeleeve,  or  afliired  that  heeis  pardoned 
before  it  bee  granted,  or  that  a6\  of  faith  which  cannot  bee 
but  in  a  perlbn  already  juftificd,  muft  goe  before  the  pardon 
of  finne. 

The  promife  of  remifsion  of  finnes  is  conditional!,  and 
becommeth  not  abfblute,  untill  the  condition  bee  fulfilled, 
cither  a6lually,  or  in  defire  and  preparation  of  mind.  This 
is  the  word  of  ^racejBe/eeve  in  the  Lord  Jeftu  (thrift, and 
thou  (halt  hefaved :  when  doth  this  conditional!  propofi- 
tion  become  abfolute  ?  when  wee  beleeve.  What  ?  that 
our  finnes  are  pardoned  ?  No :  but  when  wee  beleeve  in 
Chrifttoobtaine  pardon,  which  is  the  thing  promifed  up- 
on condition  of  beleefe.  AfTurance  that  our  finnes  be  par- 
doned is  concluded  in  apraiHcall  Syllogifme  thus ;  Hee 
that  truly  belceveth  in  Chrift  hath  obtained  pardon  of  his 
finnes :  But  I  beleeve :  Therefore  my  finnes  are  pardoned: 
where  affurance  of  the  pardon  of  finne  is  a  conclufion 
drawne  from  a  two-fold  ground,  the  one  exprefled  in 
.Scripture,  the  other  evident  (if  true)  by  the  teftimony  of 
the  renewed  confcience ;  and  prefuppofeth  that  hee  belee- 
veth,  and  is  aflurecf  that  he  doth  beleeve.  Now  if  afTurance 
of  remifsion  be  concluded  from  this  ground,  that  he  belee- 
veth,  andlcnoweth  certainly  that  heebeleeveth;  then  the 
beleefe  which  is  required  on  our  parts  to  juftification,  can- 
not bee  an  afturance  that  our  finsbee  wafliedavvay  already. 
For  if  wee  take  the  word  Beleeve  foraperfwafion  thatour 
finnes  are  done  away,  then  the  Syllogifme  runneth  thus ; 
Hee  that  is  aflured  of  the  pardon  of  his  finnes,  his  finnes 
arc  pardoned.    But  I  am  aftured  of  the  pardon  of  my 

finnes : 


Faith  as  it  jujlijies  ts  a  refiing  on  ChriUjorfardon.  8  7 

finncs ;  therefore  my  finnes  are  pardoned. 

Faith  receiveth  the  pardon  of  finne,  as  it  is  profered  in 
the  word  of  grace,  and  groundcthit  fclfc  Iblely  and  imme- 
diately upon  the  promife  of  God  in  Jelus  Chrift  :  But 
ground,  whereupon  a  finner  in  himieJfe  guiitie  fLould  build 
aflurancethat  his  finnes  are  pardoned,  without  Ibme  other 
aA  of  faith  comming  betwixt  the  promife  and  that  aflu- 
rancc,  there  is  none.  The'  Gofpel  offereth  pardon  to  the 
thirftie  and  burdened,  if  hee  will  receive  it :  aflureththem 
of  pardon ,  who  have  embraced  the  promife  :  but  where 
lliall  wee  find  ground,  whereupon  the  guiitie  peribn,  who 
bcleeveth  not  to  remifsion  of  finnes,  may  bee  alTured  that 
his  finnes  not  actually  pardoned ,  are  yet  pardoned  and 
blotted  out  of  Gods  remembrance  ?  Faiih  taketh  the 
pardon  prefented  to  it  in  the  word  of  promife,  and  travel- 
ling with  it,  bringeth  forth  a6luall  remifsion  of  fin,  which 
upon  our  faith  we  receive.  Affurancc  is  not  before  pardon, 
nor.a6luall  remifsion  before  faith,  unleflethe  effecfl  be  be- 
fore the  caufe,  and  the  fame  thing  bee  both  caule  and  eflfe^l. 
Tobeleevein  Chrift  to  (alvation  isto  receive  him.  But  to, 
receive  Chrift  as  hee  is  offered  unto  us  in  the  Golpel,  is  not 
tobeeafTured  that  our  finnes  are  already  pardoned  in  and 
through  Jefus  Chrift ,  but  to  reft  upon  him  for  pardon. 
Before  the  ad  of  juftification,  faith  hath  for  obje»5l  this 
propofition  concerning  the  future.  To  mee  beleeving  my 
finnes  {hall  be  forgiven:  but  after  the  promife  is  receivecf, 
and  pardon  obtained,  iv  hath  this  propofition  concerning 
the  prefent  or  time  paft,  To  me  beleeving  in  Chrift  my  fins 
are  forgiven. 

And  thus  the  horned  argument  of  the  Jefuite,  whereby 
hee  would  prove  the  fpeciall  mercie  of  God  not  to  bee  the 
ohjetl  of  faith  jnftifying,  and  our  doctrine  in  tSiat  point 
tobeegroffeandabfurdjiseafily  untied.  For  thus  herealb- 
ncth ;  Juftifying  faith  goeth  before  juftification  ;  But 
faithin  the  fpeciall  mercieof  God  foUoweth  juftification. 
Forhee  that  beleeveth  the  pardon  of  his  fins,  is  either  juft 
before  or  not  juft;  if  juftbefore,  then  faith  juftifieth  not; 

G  4  if 


Joh.T  ti' 
Hetvet.  ctnfeff: 


T*T.tU^mfiif, 
Itb.eaf.io. 


leUar.dtJuflif. 

Seff,  Ratio  fecun. 
tL-  IdsmiU  ted. 
H>kx.  c*p.  1 1 . 
^-ScCfaTiineflri, 


1-  ■ — 


88  J-^aitJb as  it  p^fiifies  U  a refl'tng  on  ChriUforfarden. 


D.  F/fWoftfie 
Chinch, //'<■.  J. 

1«lt<fno(  wal- 
king with  God, 

To  bel(ev?  th-tt  my 
'.Jin  is  now  forgiven 
'  in  Chrift,  it  rather 
anaSof  experi- 
ence in  a  "heleever 
now  iuftiped,  than 
that  beleeft  wh'ch 
,  it  required  to ')u- 
Ijlificatien . 
p.  Buy n.  Help  to 
true  Happtnep, 


huh  fame  alts,  aj 
a  caufc  dijpofing, 
pTcpan>'g^  and  fit- 
ting Hi  to  the  re- 
c.-it  ofthAtgraci. 
tfufav  our^wherehy 
Goddnthjufiifi: 
U6 ;  and  other,  as  a 
fufcqnivecxu.(e^ 
reccivinT^^embra- 
ciiig^  and  en]oying 
the  fame    In  the 
fnrnt'.r  refpeSf 
fitilhcoufifli  not 
in  a  perftV'iJion 
that  tse  Axe  ti  e 
fon^  of  God,  tint  hi 
the  latter.  F.'el'i 
'^fpendix  to  the 
fifth  Biolff,  fecund 
fart,  §.5j,;i«<ji. 
b  AasiS.jr. 
c  Rom. ".JO. 


if  ur.juft;  thcrrbeiecving  that  his  finnes  be  pardoned,  bee 
bcleeveth  a  lye.  Our  anivver  is>  that  Ipeciall  fakbhach  fl»i- 
drie  acts;  biK  to  t&is  ptspofc-  ipcGial-Iy  two.    The  Hri? 
heartily  CO  dclire,  earneflly  to  thirft  after,  humbly  to  en- 
treat for  acceptation,  and  confidentiy  tareft  upon  the  pro- 
mife  of  free  remifsion :  The  other  comfortably  to  aflure 
and  pcj(\^ade,  that  chat  is  granted;,  Which  was  defired  and 
received  in  promife  Faith  by  her  firft  ad  obtaineth  and 
recciveth  pardon,  and  doth  not  find  us  jiift,  when  wee  be- 
gin to  beJeeve:  by  her  fecond  a£l-j  fliee  doth  not  adVualfy 
juftifie,  but  finding  the  thing  done^  certifieth  and  aiTureth 
us  of  it.  So  then  fpeciaJl  faith  in  her  firft  acl,  is  before 
Juftification,  and  procureth,  obtaineth, and receiveth  par- 
don, but  then  fhee  hath  not  the  perfwafion  of  it  as  already 
done :  In  her  fecond  a6t  fliee  prdfuppofeth  the  thing  done, 
and  already  obtained,  and  fo  truly  perfwadeth  the  belee- 
ver  of  it,  but  procureth  not  the  doing  of  it.  Before  Jnfti- 
fication  faith  feekcch  and  receiveth  the  promife  of  forgiye- 
nefle:  after  Juftification,  it  comfortably  aflTureth  of  the 
blcfsing  obtained  :  inbothithath  for  its  obje<5l  the  fpeciall 
mercie  of  God  in  Chrift.  Faith  receiveth  Chrift  offered  in 
the  Gofpel,  and  it  perfwadeth  and  affureth  of  pardon  in 
Chrift  received  :  both  thefebe  the  a<3s  of  faith,  formecimes 
exprefied  ^  in  the  definition  of  juftifying  faith  :  but  if  wee 
fpeake  of  faith  as  it  juftifieth  ,  it  peculiarly  embraceth 
Chrift  with  his  benefits,  as  hce  is  profered  in  the  Word 
and  Sacrament.  For  faith,  which  is  required  to  jn;lificaci- 
on ,  is  not  a  perfvafion  or  knowledge  of  things  already 
poffefled,  but  a  confidence  of  things  promifed  and  upon 
beleeving  tobee  obtained,  which  in  the  order  of  caufes,not 
in  time,  dochgoe  before  remifsion  of  fins .  Who  knoweth 
not,  that  wee  muftbeleeve,  that  wee  might  bee  juftified? 
Juftified,  I  lay,  and  notcertifiedof  juftification  by  the  be- 
nefit of  faith.  The  Scripture  is  cieare ;  t>  Beleeve,and  thou 
jhaltbefaved.  ^  CJod  jufiifieth  the  circumcip>onby  faith  ; 
-  and  the  uzcircumcifion  through  faith.  Doenotthele,  and 
many  the  like  paflages  fhew ,  that  juftification  >  and  not 
»  onely 


Faith  as  it  jujirfies  is  a  repng  on  Chrilifor  far  don.  Sp 


onely  the  feme  and  manifcftation  of  jnftification  aircady  i 
obcained,doth  depend  on  faich  > 

^  4,  It  may  bee  laid,  wee  are  juftified  before  in  Gods  ' 
decree.  Indeed  whom  God  doth  jnl'^ifie,  them  he  decreed 
to jnftifiefrcm  all  ctcrnitie :  but  whereas eleii>ion  is  mani- 
fefied  by  faith,  as  by  its  eft-ed^,  juftification  doth  depend- 
UfK^n  faith,  as  ks  caufcand  wee  are  juftificd  by  faich  as  the 
inftrumcnt  thereof.  Fore'e-^-ion  is  an  adl  immanent  and 
letcrnaiJ,  but  juftification  transient  and  in  time>  inferring 
Ibme  change  in  the  pcrfon  juftihed,  not  phyficall>  biK  mo- 
rallandinrelped^of  ftate,  whereby  it  comes  to  pafle,  that 
the  perlon  is  in  another  condition  and  account  than  he  was 
before. 

Inbriefe,  the  a61  of  faith  perfvvading  of  the  pardon  of 
finne  already  obtained,  by  beleeving  and  glorying  in  the 
fenfeof  Gods  mcrcie,  muft  be  difiinguifhed from  that  afl 
of  faith  which  juftifieth,  and  is  a  leaning  or  ftaying  upon 
Chrift  to  obtaine  remifsion;  the  priviledge  of  grace  and 
comfort,  which  comes  to  the  foule  by  beleeving,  muft  bee 
diftinguifhed  from  the  condition  of  the  covenant,  which 
is  required  on  our  parts,  before  wee  can  obtaine  pardon. 
This  is  the  rather  to  bee  noted,  bfcaufethe  mainecaviJsof 
thePapiftsagainrt  ourdo6>rine  touching  particular  confi- 
dence in  Gods  mercie,  and  certaincie  of  falvacion,  are 
grounded  upon  thi^  furmilc,  that  wee  make  that  faith, 
which  isan  afliired  and  ccrtaine  perfvafion  of  our  parti- 
cular eledion,jurtification,  and  ialvaiion,  to  bee  the  fole 
canfe,  to  wic,on  mans  pact,  of  jufHficaiion :  whereas 
juftification  it  felfe  muft  goe  before  the  nfTuraMc e  of  it,  and 
fuchperfons  onely  can  have  tru^  aftiiranceandccrtaintieof 
their  juftification ,  eledHon,  and  falvation,  who  doe  un- 
fainedly  beleevc,  and  know  aflTuredly  that  they  bcleeveas 
they  ought,  And  it  makes  much  for  the  comfort  of  many 
faithfull people,  whocommit  their  foules  unto  Chrift  Je- 
fusjand  depend  upon  him  and  no  other  for  filvation,  who 
yet  are  much  perplexed,  asif  they  had  nofaith,  nor  could 
doeought  pleafing  unto  God,  becaufeihey  want  this  ccr- 
taine 


Fifhcri  fftftvet  to 
certtiifuarficlei. 


po 


H»w  faith  affureth  offdvation. 


§.    T. 

H  »V  faith  ttffii- 
retb  offalvatioa 


I  Job.M?.  and 
j.rA-uiH  J. 13, 


7- 


taineafluranceof  the  rcmiflfion  of  their  (innes;  whereas  i£ 
they  had  learned  what  it  is  to  bcleevc  unto  juftification, 
anci  trutt  unto  the  promifc  for  pardon,  they  might  for  the 
prefent  take  comfort  in  this ,  that,  notwithftanding  their 
feare,they  relyeupon  Chrift,  and  commit  their  Ibules  unto 
God,as  to  their  faithful!  Redeemer,  and  might  with  more 
eafeand  Ipced  grow  up  unto  the  defired  comfort  and  aflli- 
rance,  when  they  fhould  diftin6lly  perceive  and  dilcerne 
the  grounds  of  faith  and  aflurance,  and  by  what  fteps  and 
degrees  they  muft  climb  from  the  one  unto  the  other. 


CHAP.  VIII. 

By  faith  a  true  beleever  may  be  certditue  and  infallihty 

afff*red  of  the  remijfion  */  his  ftnnes  arid 

eternalljaivation, 

§.  I.  T  T  is  a  Principle,  common  amongft  our  Adverla- 
Iries,  thatcverie  conclufion  ifluing  from  one  pro- 
pofition  revealed  expreflely  in  Scripture,  and  another 
clearelyand  certainly  knowne  otherwife,  and  by  evident 
and  good  confequent  added  unto  it,  belongs  to  faith,  and 
isbeleeved  by  no  other  habit  than  of  faith.  As  for  exam- 
ple ;-'AH  the  dead  fhallrife.  Ceteris  dead :  therefore p^- 
ter  Oiall  rife.  The  conclufion  is  Theologicall,  and  belongs 
to  faith,  thougb  it  bee  not  expreffely  written  thatT^r^r  is 
dead,  orthatheefliall  rife  againe.  So  it  is  in  this  prefent 
j  matter :  All  that  beleeve  fhallbee  faved:  thispropofition 
j  is  of  faith,  becaufe  it  is  immediately  revealed  and  ex- 
1  preffely  written.  But  I  beleeve ;  this  is  certaine  by  the 
I  teftimony  of  the  renewed  confciencej  to-him  that  hath  pro- 

I  ved  himfelfe  to  be  in  the  faith.  The  conclufion.  Therefore 

I I  iTiall  bee  faved,  is  certaine  by  faith :  becaufe  it  is  inferred 
ofone  thing beleeved,  and  another  that  is  evident.  And  al- 
though the  Holy  Gholt,  not  tying  himfelfe  to  termes,  doe 

ib  n-iCtime 


\\ 


Bow  faith  ajftirethoffalvation. 


9^ 


fomctime  call  it  k»ovi>ledge ;  yet  calling  it  againe  heUeving 
aIone,or  beUeving  and knowirtg-,\i  is manifeft fuch  a  know- 
ledge is  intended,  as  not  oneiy  flovvesfrom  tlie principles 
of  with,  but  alfo  is  reduced  to  the  fame  habit.  For  with 
what  other  eyes  canthefonle  behold  the  heavenly  light 
of  the  Goipel  ?  How  fhall  that  confidence,  aflurance,  or 
certaintie,  which  is  created  by  the  mixture  of  the  light  of 
the  Scripture,  with  the  light  of  a  good  confcience  renewed 
by  the  Holy  Ghoft ,  belong  to  any  humane  knowledge, 
when  the  Scripture  faith  exprcflely,  T^r^row//^  <?/fAff  jy?/- 
rit  ii  received,  by  faith  ;  and  wherefoever  in  all  the  Bible, 
the  Gotpell  is  revealed,  men  are  called  upon  to  beleeve  ? 
And  if  there  be  granted  a  certaintie  of  a  mans  owne  (peciall 
ftanding,  which  certaintie  arifes  from  the  Scriptures,  one 
ground  thereof  being  a  proposition  or  fentence  immedi- 
ately divine,  the  other  inferred  and  concluded  from  that 
which  is  divine ;  it  muftbee  granted  alfb,  that  it  is  a  worke 
or  eflfccft  of  faith.  The  Scripture  reports  how  many  of  the 
children  of  God  rvere  tried  by  mocking  and  fconrging,  by 
bands  and  imprifonment,  they  werejtanedj  heire»  aftinder, 
temped ;  they  wandered  up  &  downe  deflttute  &  ajfltBed : 
AM  which,  the  Apoftle faith,  they  did  by  faith  and  confi- 
dence of  the  promilesj  and  yet  their  aiTurance  was  no 
other, nor  otherwiie begotten,  than  the  ordinarieaHurancc 
of  all  Gods  children,  which  is  concluded  by  joyning  the 
light  of  their  confcience,  kindled  by  the  HolyGhoft^  and 
ruled  by  the  Scriptures,  tothc  immediate  light  of  the  con- 
ditions reveaJed  in  the  Scriptures.  Faith  which  is  beice- 
ved,  or  the  dodlrine  of  faith,  is  written  in  the  Word  of 
God,  the  holy  Scriptures :  but  faith  whereby  wee  beleeve, 
or  of  the  heart,  is  written,  engraven,  ft)Oted  in  the  heart, 
out  of  the  Word  ofGod,  by  the  Holy  Ghoft ;  and  knowne^ 
notbeleeved,  by  theteftimonyof  the  renewed  conlciencc, 
enlightened  by  the  Spirit,  and  dire6>ed  by  the  Word  :  for 
the  rule  by  which  a  man  difcerneth  himfelfe  to  beleeve,  is 
the  doftrine  of  Gods  Word  ,  declaring  the  qualitie  of 
faith:  And  the  certaintie  or  aflfurance ,  which  a  juft  per- 

fon 


Gal. J. 14- 


Heb.n.j«. 


I-/- 


p2 


fVhat  manner  of 
ajfuraaci  it  obtai- 
ned. 


§.   3. 


what  manner  of  affurance  uobtAtned. 

^ : ^ 

fonhachof  his  particular  jijftificatioa,  depends  upon  the 
right  application  of  two  propoficions ;  oae  immediateJy 
divine  and  certainely  beleeved,  JVhofoever  beheveth  i» . 
Jefui  Chrifi  fhall  be  faved'y  the  other  inferred  and  concln- ; 
ded  from  that  which  is  divincjcertainely  knowne  according 
to  the  direction  of  the  word^  Bm  I  beleeve. 

%.  2.  This  affijrancff  is  not  fuch,  as  whereby  a  man  is 
niade  abfolutely  out  of  all  doubt :  but  fuch  as  many,  times 
isaflaulted,  and  fihaken  with  many  difficulties,  feares,  and 
doubts:  which  notwitbftanding  ariienot  from  the  nature 
of  faithj  as  if  it  ought  to  be;  but  from  thcfraiJtieand  cor- 
ruption of  our  evill  nature,  by  reaion  whereof  faith  is  not 
fuch  as  it  ought  to  be.  It  is  not  the  office  of  faith  to  cherifli 
and  maintaine  fuch  feares  and  doubts,  but  to  refift  them,  to 
fight  againftthem,  and  ib  much  as  is  polTible  to  cxpellxhem, 
and  drive  them  out.   But  yetbyrealbnof  the  ftrength  of 
our  naturall  corruptionraad  the  weaknefle  of  our  faith,  we 
attaine  not  to  this,  j  and  how  much  the  weaker  our  faith  is, 
jb  much  are  wee  the  further  from  it.  Againe,  the  dayes  of 
faith  are  as  the  feafons  of  the  yeare,  fome  faire,  ibmefoule ; 
one  while  a  Sun-Chine  fnmmer,  another  while  along  and 
tedious  winter,  fometimes  no  more  but  a  florme  and  away. 
Our  eyes  are  not  alwayes  alike  intent  to  the  Word  of  God; 
wee  doe  not  alwayes  alike  conceive  the  promifes  of  God : 
nay,  temptations  fometimes  hide  them  out  of  our  fight. 
The  effi26ts  of  grace  doe  not  alwayes  appeare  the  fame, 
yea  ,  fometimes  they  feeme  to  bee  quite  overwhelmed" 
withcontrarieefi^ei^s.  And  in  nature  it  felfe  there  isavo- 
luntarie  flirinking  and  relinquidiing  of  the  comfort  of  faith, 
through  the  leeds  of  unbeleefe  that  originally  are  fowen 
in  us.  • 

§.  i'  The  particular  certaintie  of  remiffion  offinnes 
and  eternall  falvation,  which  juft  perfons  attaine  unto  up- 
on their  Repentance,  Faith,  and  Obedience,  is  not  equal) 
in  certaintie  and  firmnefle  of  aflent,  to  that  aiTurance 
which  they  have  about  the  common  objeft  of  faith ;  to, 
wit,  conccrningthearticlcsof  Creation,  Incarnation,  Re-| 

furredlion 


^ 


what  mAnner  of  Affurancc  is  obtained. 


93 


furreilion,  or  the  like:  becaule  thefs  articles  are  totally 
and  immediately  revealed  in  holy  Scripture;  but  that  his 
finnesin  particular  are  remitted,  depends  upon  an  argu- 
ment, whereof  onely  one  partis  immediately  the  Word 
of  Godj  and  the  other  a  collection  arifing  upon  refleiliion, 
andoblervationof  amansowne  qualities  and  ad  ions,  and  i 
the  conclufion  is  more  orlefie  certaine,  according  to  the  ! 
condition  of  the  fecond  propofition.  Ir  is  a  thing  more 
cercaine  and  evident  to  faith,  that  God  gave  Chrilttodye 
forHnners,  thatwhofoeverheleeveth  inhimfK)ould  mtfe- 
rijhy  but  have  life  everUfling ,  than  it  is  to  my  confcience, 
tnat  1  beleeve  with  well-rooted  and  all-feaioning  confi- 
dence :  I  have  greater  aflurance  that  God  is  faithfull 
and  true,  than  that  my  heart  is  upright:  Therefore  I 
have  greater  afTurance  that  the  true  Beleever  (liall 
bee  favcd,  than  that  my  felfc  am  received  unto  mercie. 
Albeit  faith  doe  fometimes  (tagger  and  waver,  as  tou- 
ching the  verie  principles  thcmfdves  and  immediate  Word 
of  God;  yet  becauie  the  truth  and  certaintie  thereof  is 
more  eafily  and  better  conceived,  they  are  for  the  moft 
part  more  familiarly  and  readily  belecved.  But  the  con- 
clufions,  becaufe  of  themfelves  they  are  unknovvne,  and 
have  their  light  onely  from  the  principles*  are  not  fo 
firmely  apprehended  as  the  principles  themlelve,',  vvhiJeft 
doubts  haply  may  he  cart,  left  there  bee  any  errour  com- 
mitted in  the  application  and  ufe  thereof.  It  is  a  prin- 
ciple delivered  for  aflurance  of  \2Wm0n,  Be/eeve  in  the 
Lord  ]  efiu  Chrifi,  and  thou  jJmlt  bffjaved.  Hereupon  the 
faithfull  man  inferrethto  himfelfe,  I  beleeve  in  the  Lord 
Jefus  Chrirt,  therefore  I  (liall  bee  (xwq.3.  In  this  either 
confufedly  or  cxpreflely  inferred,  heecomforteth  himfelfe, 
and  rejoyceth  in  God,  and  in  hope  thereof  chearcfully 
ferveth  God,  calleth  upon  his  name,  and  in  patience  ex- 
pefteth  the  revealing  of  hisfalvarion.  And  yet  oftentimes 
itfallethout,  that  hecqueftioneth  his  faith,  and  not  feeing 
fucheftc6>s  thereof,  ashee  ftippofeth  there  ought  to  bee, 
makethdoubtlerthaplyhee  bee  deceived  J  and  though  the 

prmciple  ^ 


94 


The  fever  all  eflates  ef  Beleevers. 


§.4. 

ThefiVeraUftatet 
of  te'.eevi't, 
Efav4^».j. 
Match -1 2.20. 


Ffal.31.ii.anJ 


Phi!.i.i9,;o. 
2Tiir.4-i8. 


principle  be  true  by  which  he  firft  beleeved,yec  he  is  jealous 
led  he  have  miiapplyed  it  to  himfelfe. 
I  §.4.  This  will  appeare  in  the  feverall  ftates  or  forts 
of  true  Beleevers.  There  is  a  ftate  wherein  faith  is  a  fmoa- 
king  weeke,  defiringthat  it  could  beieeve,  rather  than  get- 
ting up  tofeeleit  felfe  beieeve,  difcoverine  it  felfeby  ear- 
ned fighs  and  groanes  for  mercie,  and  hanging  upon 
Chrift,  though  the  Beleever  can  fcarce  tell  whether  hee  reft 
upon  him  or  no:  This  faith  is  certainc  in  event,  but  the 
Beleever  in  this  ftate  is  farre  from  particular  aflurance  of  his 
falvation. 

Againe,  though  faith  bee  not  troubled,  but  doe  quietly 
ftay  on  Chrift,  andtafte  God  good  in  letting  them  find 
peace  with  him ;  yet  fuch  is  the  infancie  of  {pirituall  under- 
ftanding  in  Chriftians,  efpecially  now  firft  converted,  that 
they  doe  not  returne  into  themfelves, and  judge  of  that  they 
doe, and  of  the  great  confequence  of  that  they  doe.  Hence 
it  is  that  they  will  tell  you,  they  find  God  good  to  them, 
and  goe  on  cheerefully  in  duties  for  the  prefent:  but  they 
come  not  to  behold  tne  ftabilitic  of  their  lalvation.  The 
child  lives,before  he  knowes  that  he  doth  \[\c ;  and  knowes 
hee  doth  live,  before  hee  knowes  the  caufe  of  life,  or  the  in- 
heritance whereunto  hee  is  borne  :  and  fb  it  may  bee  and  is 
with  a  Beleever. 

There  is  a  ftate  in  which  faith  is  excrcifed  with  temptati- 
ons from  unbeleefe  or  otherwile ;  by  which  oppofition  the 
fouie  is  kept  from  obtaining  this  certaintie,  being  encoun- 
tred>vith  doubtful!  appearances,  which  it  cannot  weil  an- 
fwer  and  cleare  for  the  prefent. 

There  is  a  ftate  wherein  faith  is  now  growne  up,  and 
hath  either  out-wrefted,  or  otherwile  is  exempted  from 
knowing  fuch  temptations ;  in  which  condition  the  faith- 
full  doe  perfvade  themfelves,  that  Gods  mercie,  and  ti'urh, 
and  power,  fliallcarrie  them  thorowunto  lalvation.  But 
when  now  our  conlciences  ftiall  come  to  teftiffe  thorow 
faith  and  experience  thishappie  eftate,  weeare  fabje(5tby 
neglecting  meanes ,  laying  downe  our  watch,  giving  the 

reines 


The  fever  all  cjl  ate  s  of  Beleevers. 


9') 


rcincsto  ourlufts,  orby  recretdefcrcions  ere-vvhilecolofc 
for  a  time  this  comfortable  perfwafion ;  the  Spirit  not  (pea- 
king in  us  by  his  light  as  heretofore,  and  our  confciences 
and  faith  lb  hurt  and  wounded,  that  theadHons  of  them  are 
troubled  and  depraved^as  we  fee  the  like  befallcth  the  natu- 
ral! fenfes  and  rcalbn.  Wee  fee,  through  melancholy  what 
realbn  comes  to  imagine,  how  that  ibme  fliould  feekc  to  kill 
us,  whenever  thought  us  hurt :  How  the  eye  thinks  it  lecth 
things  yellow  and  red,  wiien  they  are  nothing  fo ;  the  talic 
thing.s  bitter,  when  they  are  Iwect :  So  the  fght  of  faith  and 
confcience,when  nothingbut  fin,guilt,wrath,angriedefer- 
tion  over-lay  it,  itfeemethto  fee-everie  t-hingfor  the  time, 
of  like  colour  to  thofe  things  wherewith  k  is  pofTefled. 
Thus  fometimes  the  ftrong  faith  \s  (haken  greatly,  and 
flrongly  affaulted,  ibthathee  that  unfpeakably  rejoycedin 
the  falvation  of  the  Lord,  by  haftie  cogitations  is  brought  to 
fay,  /  am^aU  out  of  the  fight  of  thine  eyes. 

And  ii'  faith  elcape  thele  rocks,  may  not  yet  a  more  fe- 
rious  examination  of  our  wayes,  and  thorow-fight  of  our 
nakednefle,imperfev5lions,  and  manifold  tranfgreflions ;  the 
ftrengthof  ouriufis,  thedilbrderof  our  pa (Tions,  our  daily 
failings,  and  that  great  weaknefle  which  in  trials  wee  fhall 
find  in  our  iclvts  ;  may  not  thcfe  things,  I  fay,  raife  feare 
in  theheartof  a  found  Beleever,  as  not  altogether  without 
the  reach  of  pofUblecfanger,  without  repentance  and  grea- 
ter conftancie  in  performing  all  Chriltian  duties,  than  hi- 
therto hee  hath  made  proofe  of;  ipecially  if  the  apprehen- 
honofthe  multitude  and  hainoufnefleol-his  fins  be  quicke- 
ned by  affli6>ionsjOr  the  lively  cogitations  of  the  terrors  of 
the  day  of  judgem.ent  ?  Neverthelede,  as  a  child  affrighted 
runneth  to  the  father,  looking  for  defence  and  help  of  him, 
even  Ibin  the  middellofall  feares.  tempiations,  difficul- 
ties, and  diftrefles,  fiith  is  ftill  running  unto  God,  ftill  im- 
portuning him,  calling  upon  liim,  expollulating  with  him, 
caftingitfelfe  Rill  upon  him,  depending  upon  his  aid,  and 
expei^ing-of  him  that  things  become  otherwifcthan  pre- 
fcntly  th/ey  are. 

^.  %.  Thus 


Pfal  JT.2:. 


I    96 


K^jfurance  offdvatton  maj  be  obuined. 


§.  J- 

Fdith  of  adhfT  etice 
ftronger  and  more 
"ecejjarie  th^n 
faitb  of  evidcnci. 


§.  6. 

InfaU-.ble  ajfu- 
rance  offalvation 
iftayie  obtaiaed. 


§.  5.  Thus  faith  of  adherence  is  ftronger  than  faith  of 
-evidence;  and  beleefe  in  Chrifl  for  remiflfion,  than  affurance 
of  pardon  and  forgivenefle :  And  as  faith  in  Chrift  is  ftron- 
ger than  particular  certaintie  of  our  falvation ;  fo  is  it 
morenecedarie.  For  beleefe  in  Chrift  is  abfolutely  neccl^ 
farie  to  remifsion  of  finnes,  in  all  them  that  bee  of  age  and 
dilcretion:  but  affurance  comes  not  atfirftwhen  wee  be- 
leeve,  butby  little  and  little  as  God  feeth  it  reqnifite,  ac- 
cording to  the  trial!  hee  hath  appointed  to  make  of  us. 
Without  faith  in  Chrift,  as  theonely  author  of  falvation^ 
and  fole  end  of  faith,  with  whom  our  ibules  feeke  perfe6l 
union,  it  is  impofsible  to  pleafe  God :  no  a6lion,  though 
initfelfe  never  fo  good  or  holy,  is  truly  acceptable,  unleffe 
it  be  quickened  and  enlived  by  this  faith :  But  many  poore 
{bules,that  want  affurance  of  Gods  fpecia  11  favour,  are  ten- 
derly beloved  of  him,  asheires  of  falvation,  and  their  good 
works  accepted  in  Jeiiis  Chrift.  A  Chriftian  of -an 'hum- 
ble and  broken  fpirit,  denying  hirafelfe,  and  renouncing 
the  world,  beleevingtbat  his  finnes  are  pardonable,  and 
earneftly  defiring  remifsion  of  fins  by  the  merits  of  Chrift ; 
reftingupon  Chrift  alone  for  falvation,  andjoyning,  with 
this  defire  and  affiance,  thefincere,  unpartiall  pra6lice  of 
obedience  to  all  Gods  Commandements,  according  to  that 
meafure  of  grace  which  hee  hacb  received,  without  que- 
ftion  hee  fhall  receive  the  inheritance  of  eternall  glorie, 
although  hee  may  bee  fcrnpulous  inhimfelfe,  wanting  this 
perfwafion  and  affurance  that  his  finnes  are  pardoned. 
And  yet  becaufe  God  hath  commanded  us  to  labour  for 
the  perfe6lion  of  all  graces,  wee  are  furethismuftbeein- 
treatcd  for,  and  have  a  promife  that  it  fhall  bee  gran- 
ted, as  God  fcech  meet,  both  for  the  time  and  meafure- 
of  it. 

§.  6.  That  not  onely  fome  uncertaine  hope  and  dimme 

fight  of  Gods  iavour,but  even  affurance  is  to  be  fought,  and 

may  bee  obtained ,  is  thus  manifeft.    Faith  may  receive 

,  what  the  Word  doth  teftifie ;  for  the  Word  of  God  is 

the  obje<5l  of  faith.    But  there  is  a  word  tef^fyingtfeus 

1  much. 


i^ffurance  offiilvation  way  betfhtawed. 


91 


Match,  r. 21. 
KCS%  10.4}. 
t  ThcfT.r.io. 

LuJc.2.l0II. 

Efap.tf. 
I  Job. J. r;. 
JoI,.6jy. 

»  Joh.J.IO.TJ. 


'BftUr.ieTuHif. 


much,  that  my  particular  perlbn  beholding  the  Sonne,  and 
bQ\tcvin^onh\mi(hi\\ have (teruii II life ^  andheeraifedup 
At  the  laft  day  ;  that  there  is  mo  ctndemnAtUn  to  me  being 
inChri^.  Neither  could  John  with  thefaithfiill  belecve 
Gods  love  towards  them  in  particular ,  t(  fome  word 
did  not  flievv  it.  For  the  Papilts  themfelvcs  will  not  fay, 
that  all  of  them  were  priviledged  with  fingular  revela- 
tion. 

Our  Adverfaries  reply,  that  there  is  no  Word  o(  God, 
laying,  Corfteiifuhclccxc  thou  that  thou  fhalt  be  laved  :  and 
where  there  is  no  word,  there  is  no  faith  ;  for  thefc  two 
arcrelatives.  Thiscavill  is  eafily  removed: for  that  can- 
not be  bcleeved  as  out  of  the  Word  of  God,  which  is  not 
found  intheWordofGodcTfpreflely,  orbyconlequcncc;    Trims  r^ 
but  whatfoevcr  is  found  there  CKpreflely,  or  may  evidently 
by  dirc6l  confequence  be  deduced  thence,  that  may  be  bc- 
teeved  as  out  of  the  Word  of  God.    Now  howioever  it 
be  notfaid  in  lb  many  fyllabks,  '^eter,  Thom$K,  Cornelius ^ 
thy  (innes  are  remitted  to  theebelecving ;  yet  ^•^'idtnx.Xy  (b 
much  may  bee  concluded  out  of  thofc  gcnerall  promifes, 
Evcrieman  that  belcevech  Hiall  have  eternal!  life  :  for  the 
univerfall  doth  include  its  particular.  Therefore  the  mclfen- 
gers  of  the  Lord  of  Hofts  doe  give  notice  to  their  Congre- 
gacions,  that  the  matter  which  they  proclaime  \n  the 
Name  of  the  Lord,doth  concerne  them  and  cverieofthcm, 
laying  in  efte6V,  To  yen  is  the  word  of  this  falvatioM  fe»t. 
What  they  lay  to  all  men,  they  fay  to  everie  man :  what 
to  penitents ,  to  everie  penitent ;  what  to  beleet^crs ,  to 
everie  beleever;  what  to  finners  and  nngodly,  to  everie 
finner.   God  gave  his  Law  to  all  ffrael,  ^leaking  to  all,  as 
rf  hee  had  fpoken  namely  and  particularly  to  everie  one, 
ThoH [halt  have  no  other  Gods,  &c.    Maynoc,  ought  not 
man  to  inferre  thence ,  I  muft  have  none  otiier  Gods, 
&c.  Thepromilcof  theGofpel  runnesthus.  If  thou  [huh 
confefe  toith  thy  mouth  the  Ltrd  Jefta,  and  beleeve  in 
thy  heart  that  God  rat  fed  him  f-omthe  dead,  thou  fhalt  he 
faved.  Is  not  this  fpoken  to  everie  man  particularly  ?  May 

H  not 


Aftsij.KJ.  and 
z  Cor. y. 30, 


Exodao^f^. 


Rom.io.^, 


1J- 


P8 


Joh'40.aJ. 


Pf,1.2jl.. 

Job  19.1  )■ 


^-  ft-' 
pral.Tcj3;4. 

Lav  4;.!^. 
l-'&l.iy^.iy- 
Micah  7.19. 

Je1em.5T.34. 
K.om.rr-2a. 

Matth.i^  17. 


i^ffurdnce  of  falvation  may  he  obtained. 


not  hee  as  out  of  the  Word  inferre.  If  I  beleeve  I  (hall  be 
faved  ?  Our  Saviour  Chrift  had  faid  nothing  namely  to 
Paul  and  Silas  as  touching  the  Jayler,  that  if  hee  did  be- 
leeve hee  {hould  bee  favcd  :   but  out  of  that  univerfall, 
fVhofoever  beleeveth  (hall  bee  faved,  they  proclaimecom- 
fort  to  him  in  fpeciallj  Beleeve  thou,  and  thou  j^h alt  bee 
faved.   There  is  nothing  found  in  Scripture  exprefl'ely  tou- 
ching this  or  that  mans  relnrreition  in  particular :  is  it  not 
then  tobebeleeved  out  of  the  Word?  The  Scripture  faith 
to  him  that  beleeveth,  Thou  flialt  inherit  eternall  life,  as 
much  as  it  doth  to  any  particular  man  now  living,  Thou 
rhait  rife  a^aine.    Becaufe  our  Saviour  faid  to  the  Apo- 
{^\zs,whofe  fins  foeveryee  remit,  they  are  remined,om  Ad- 
veriaries  (though  falfly)  would  colle6t ,  that  their  Priefts 
have  power  to  abfolve  a  man  from  all  his  finnes.  Doe  they 
know  afluredly,  that  what  was  fpokcn  to  the  Apoftles, 
was  fpoken  alfo  to  theirPriefts,  though  there  bee  no  parti- 
cular mention  of  them  in  theGofpellj  and  will  they  not 
allow  us  to  inferre  a  particular  from  a  generall?  David 
could  fay,  The  Lord  is  mjfhepherd ;  Job,  I  k»ow  that  my 
%edeemer  liveth :  which  they  beleeved  out  of  the  Word, 
grounding  themfelves  upon  the  promiles  of  mercie.  And 
I  wee  now  living  by  the  fame  faith,  having  the  fame  precious 
I  promifes,  being  led  by  the  fame  Spirit,  may  out  of  the 
'  Word  of  life  be  aflured  that  our  (innes  are  forgiven  and  co- 
vered. Moreover,  everiefaithfullfoulein  particular  doth 
find,  heare,and  read  in  the  Word,  fvho  forgiveth  all  thine 
itji^iiities,and  hea/eth  all  thine  infirmities.  To  everie  faith- 
full  fbule  in  fpeciall  the  Lord  faith,  I,  even  I  am  hee  that  . 
blotteth  out  thine  inic^Htttes  for  mine  otvne fake, and  remem- 
ber thy  finnes  no  more.  Thi=;  he  fpeaketh  to  hngular  belec- 
vers,  nottofome  pcrfons  only,  as  it  is  evident  in  that  the 
Scripture  doth  in  univerfi II  repeat  the  fame  thing-  What 
our  Saviour  faid  to  the  young  man,  If  thou  xvouldFIr  enter 
into  life,  keepethe  Commandements,  the  Papids  teach  that 
is  fpoken  to  all  men  ;  and  if  a  man  fulfill  that  condition, 
hee  may  beleeve  to  bee  faved.  Looke  how  they  know  the 

words 


^ffurance  offaluation  may  be  obtained. 


99 


Rom. 


4.1J. 


words  (poken  to  the  young  man  ^o  many  hundred  yeercs 
paft  to  be  direiled  unto  them  :  by  the  lame  rule  may  eve- 
ry faithfull  Ibule  intereft  himfelfe  in  all  the  gracious  and 
loveJy  fpeeches  wherewith  God  from  time  to  time  hath 
comforted  his  people,  and  take  unto  himfelfe  thofepromi- 
fcs>  anlwers^and  affurancesthat  God  hath  at  any  time  made 
and  given  unto  them,  refolvingofall  the  reft,  that  which  in 
one  cafe  the  Apoftle  exemplifyeth  of  that  that  was  written 
of  the  Juftification  of  ^^r4/?<<w,that  thofc  things  were  not 
wrirt en  for  them  only , but  for  them  al[o  who  beleeve  as  thej 
haddotjg. 

The  word  then  fpeaketh  in  particular  to  them  that  be- 
leeve; but  can  a  Chriltian  know  andbeeafluiedthathe 
doth  truly  beleeve  ?  Such  as  truly  beleeve,  may  know  they 
beleeve,as  he  that  hath  a  jewell  in  his  hand,  may  know  that 
he  hath  it.   Paul  did  kpow  on  whom  hee  had  beleeved  :  the 
pooremaninthe  Gofpelcryeth,  Lord  /  beleeve  :  David 
(kiih,  I  be/eeved ,  and  therefore  I  [pake  i    Hezekiah  pray- 
Cth,  Lord  remember  me  how  I  have  walked  before  thee  in 
truth  ,  and  with  aperfe^  heart  -John  concludcththus,  j'J'^h.  j  1*4. 
Hereby  wee  know  that  he  abideth  in  w,  even  by  the  Spirit 
which  he  hath  given  us-  How  could  we  fay  every  one  We 
beleeve,if  we  might  not  know  it  ?  Can  wee  fpeake  that  tru- 
ly, whereof  we  can  have  no  certaintie  ?  When  1  fee  one,  or 
truft  to  a  mans  word  promifing  me  this  or  that,  I  know  I  fee 
mm,  truft  to  him  and  rell^  on  him  for  that  he  hath  promifed: 
Shall  I  by  faith  fee  Chrift  the  Sonne,  and  reft  on  him,  and 
yet  know  no  fuch  thing  PCarna  11  con!idence  maybedilcer- 
ned ,  why  then  Chould  it  be  impodlblc  for  a  true beleever  to 
know  that  hee  doth  beleeve?  The  Spirit  of  man  diLerneth 
what  is  in  man  :  he  knoweth  what  is  in  himfelfe,  thcUiih  not 
ever  the  meafure  or  quantitie  thereof    Hee  that  loveth  his 
brother,  knoweth  the  love  wherewith  hee  loveth  him  :  and 
hethatbeIeevethinGod,mayknow  the  faith  where A'ith 
hebeleeverh. 

Many,  beguile  themfelves ,  while  they  ftand  in  opinion 
they  doe  beleeve,  and  beleeve  not  at  all.  What  then  ?  Shall 

H  2  hee 


1  Timi.ij. 

Mar  9.  24. 
P/al  116.10. 

2  Cor.4.jj. 
Efayji.  j,4. 


1  John  J. 17. 


I  Cor.:.ir, 


lOO 


^^furOKce offJ'VM'im may  he akatfteJ. 


ISilUr.de  fuft. 
\lil>.l.c<tp.Z  feS. 

'if. 

Pial.7-To. 

To  be  in  thffailh, 

ii  to  havefttith  »'' 

them' 

Ephef.  3.I7' 
I  John  4.  I^. 
Rom.8.8. 
*jCor.  I  J.  5,^. 
Ephcf.  S-:;- 


Rhtm  annot.in. 


b«  that  bckeveth  unfainedly  bee  ;tkog€ther  uneertatne , 
whether  hcebeleeve ,  or  no  ?  Thtre  u  that  bsafieth  T»hen 
kii  JomU  hAtknottght  :  yet  men wboaiGod  hath  ble fled 
wirh  abundance,  may  know  that  they  bee  rich.  Many  are 
decei\Td  in  matters  of  faich  and  true  worOup  of  G<xi ;  (ball 
noeaChriftian  tbenbee  certaine  of  hisReligiofv?  A  main 
that  drcimerhof  hosnour  and  prooFiotion,  plentie  and  abtiew 
dance,  xmy  Jn-e  in  infamie  and  di%race„  pemirie  and 
hongcr  :  aiid  yec  they  chat  bee  promoted  to  feionoup,  and, 
li\te  in  pJetwry^  auy afibredlybeeperiwadedofwhatGod 
hath  given  them.  Some  mens  lenfes  are  deluded*  (kail 
every  man  therefore  bee  in  faience  of  whatfoever  bee  feeth 
orheareth?  He  chat  is  falfly  perfwaded  of  hisgoodeft^ate 
and:  ftrong  faith  ,  deceiveth  his  ownc  foule :  (liall  he  there- 
fore that  unfainedly  embraceth  Chrift ,  and  refteth  upon 
him ,  be  ever  at  uncertainties ,  whether  hee  dothbeleeve 
orno? 

The  heart  unregenerate  is  deceitfulland  wicked  above 
all  things :  the  heart  regenerate  is  true  and  faithful] :  In  re- 
ipeil  of  the  exaift  mealiire  of  grace  and  ftrength,  the'  re- 
generate are  oft  deceived ;  but  of  the  truth  of  grace  they 
may  bee  alTured :  in  Ibme  particular  relblutions  they,  may 
bee  ignorant  of  their  owne  hearts ;  but  of  their  general! 
purpoie  they  may  firmely  and  truely  be  perfwaded.  Taut 
bidsvs  * -prove  andtrie  our f elves  i  whether  wee  have  not 
that  faith,  by  which  Chrift  dwelleth  in  our  hearts,  which 
Vvorketh  by  love,  which  is  the  faith  of  fuch  as  are  accepted 
with  God ,  are  purged  from  their  finne ,  and  are  become 
Temples  of  the  Holy  Ghoft :  intimating  that  by  examinati- 
on it  is  to  be  difc  erred  and  known  whether  we  beieeve.And 
if  we  may  know  that  wee  have  faith,  whereby  Chrift  dwel- 
leth  in  us  by  his  Spirit,  and  we  in  him?  then  may  wee  know 
alfo  that  wee  have  repented  truly  of  our  fins  :  fbrfaithand 
repentance  be  infeparable  companionsjandw-hofohach  the 
one ,  hee  cannot  be  deftituteoftheothcr.lt  is  one  thing  to 
repent,  another  to  bcleeve  :  but  thefe  two  live  and  dwell 
together,  that  if  one  be  wanting  tfoere  a  neither  in  truth. 

They 


i^jfurMce  offalvMioH  may  he  obtained. 


lOI 


They  (h)t6t  further.  It  fufficcth  not  to  beleeve  unto  fal- 
vation,  but  a  man  muft  beleeve  with  his  rvhole  heart:  which 
no  man,fay  they,can  certainly  aflfirme.  Indeed  faith  fincere, 
upright,  and  well-rooted,  is  required  on  our  part  to  jufti- 
fication ;  but  not  ablblutcly  pcrfetSl  in  degree ,  without 
weakneffe  or  dtk^  :  And  this  may  bee  knowne  by  him 
that  hath  it ;  elfe  could  not  the  Eunuch  have  anfwered,  / 
beleeve;  nor  David  have  promifedj  Iwill^raifetheey  O 
Ltrdi  with  my  wh«le  heartt  with  my  whole  heart  h^ve  I 
foufht  thee.    But  in  thefe  and  fuch   like  paflages ,  the 
« wtjole  heart  noteth  the  intcgritie  b  and  uprightnefle 
of  thefoule,  not  the  perfe6^ion  of  grace  without  any  m. 
firmitieor  6.dit.^\  as  on  the  contrarie,  a  fraudulent  or  hy- 
pocriticall  heart  is  called  ^  *n  heart  divided ;  and  the  whole 
^^rfr-f  isoppofed  toa«fained  and  hypocriticall  heart,  as  the 
Lord  complaineth  by  his  Prophet,  ^  Jndah  hath  not  retUT' 
nednntomewith  her  whole  hearti  but  fainedly.  And  thus 
weeflmtupthisfirftreafon.  That  which  the  Scripture  (aith 
to  pertainc  to  all  and  fingular  Beleevers,that  everieBe- 
Icever  may  certainly  afiiire  himfelfc  of  by  faith  ;  But  the 
Scripture  Uieweth  remiflTion  of  (inncs  to  pertainc  to  all  and 
everie  Beleevcr. 

§.  7.  Againe,  What  wee  are  taught  to  askeof  God  in 
prayer ,  and  have  a  promife  to  obtaine,  that  by  faith  wee 
raaybeeafluredto  obtaine.  For  God  that  hath  comman- 
ded us  to  pray,  and  dire6ied  what  to  aske  according  to  his 
will,  and  promifed  to  grant  the  defires  of  them  that  call 
upon  him  in  truth  according  to  his  Commandemenc,  hee 
will  not  deniehis  promife,  nor  goe  backefrom  the  thing 
that  hee  hath  fpcken.  But  wee  are  commanded  to  aske  the 
pardon  and  forgivenefleof  ourfinnes,  and  have  apromi/e 
to  bee  heard  in  that  which  weedefire.  Therefore  by  faith 
wee  may  bee  affurcd  of  the  particular  remifUon  of  our  of- 
fences. 

Our  Adveriaries  except,  that  what  wee  areaflured  of  al- 
ready, that  wee  cannot  aske  of  God  in  prayer :  and  there- 
fore if  wee  be  aflijred  of  pardon,  wee  muft  notjnray  for  par- 

H    7,  don. 


'  'SelUr.de  fu^  if. 
lib  l.caf.S. 
Ad.».j7. 


X  Tim. 


r.5. 


AAs8.}7,j8. 

PnU-Si.u.and 

ij8.r. 

Pral.rrpio/9. 

a  Pfal.frj.z. 

Jcrcm29  t%' 
t  ChroD.i5,r5. 
Prov.j.j. 
l»P£il.7j.f.and 
57  rr.andjS. 

c  PfaLrj.j. 
d  Jt^rcm.j.ro, 
I-uk.7.50. 


§•7. 

Mark.11.24. 

iJohf.f4,iS< 
Pfal'ifM*. 


lib.^.c*p.\l. 
Tr*t*t*tt. 


^l 


J'cF- 


102 


i^jfurance  of  falvation  may  be  obtained. 


In  whAtJinfefeT' 
ttiffrajc4foT. 


»  Sani'Ta  I'jiJ' 


don.  What,  isit  lawfnll  in  nofenle  to  pray  for  that  where- 
of wee  area  flured?  David  pray td  to  God  for  the  pardon 
of  thofefinnes,  which  hcebcleeved  by  faith  were  forgiven 
(forlowashecaflured  from  the  Lord  bytheProphet  Mr- 
thaft)  unlelTc  wee  fhallchargehim  with infidelitie,for not 
beieeving  the  Prophet :  fincethefpecchwasfoplaine,  that 
hee  could  not  bat  underhand  it.  /  havejinned  againji  the 
Lord:  A  plaine  and  true  confeffion.  The  Lord atfo  hath 
fHt  away  th^Jtme,  thottfloalt  not  dye :  As  plaine  and  cer- 
taine  an  abfolution. 

Willour  Adverfaries  come  in  here  with  their  vaine  di- 
ftin£lion  of  guilt  and  puniflbment,of  tcmporall  and  eter- 
nal)? Iftheydoc,  it  is  to  nopurpofe.  For  whatfoever  the 
refpcdbwere,  in  which  JD4'://'<^  prayed  for  theforgiveneflc 
of  his  finnes,  once  this  is  cleare,  that  he  prayed  for  it :  and 
then  what  remaines,  but  that  our  Adverfaries  muft  con- 
demne  him  of  finning  gricvoufly,  in  askingOod  pardon  for 
thofefins,  which  hee  beleeved  by  faith  were  forgiven  him ; 
orof  infidelitie  for  not  beieeving:  or  elfe  grant  it  lawful] 
in  fomeregard  to  crave  pardon,  when  it  is  already  granted, 
and  beleeved  to  be  fo  ?  But  further  it  is  manifeft,  that  both 
guilt  and  punifhment  were  remitted:  becaufe  the  Prophet 
precifely  mentions  both  parts.  The  Lord  hath  takj»  ai»ay 
thyfmnei  There  is  the  guilt  wipt  away.  Thou  jh alt  not 
dye ;  There  is  the  punifhment  forgiven,  the  whole  punifli- 
ment,  the  whole  penaltieoftheftatute  concerning  finne. 
And  yet  nothing  is  more  cleare,than  that  David  begs  par- 
don both  of  the  guilt  and  punifliment  of  his  offences,  and 
that  God  would  make  him  fee  and  feele  this  forgivencflc  of 
his  ever ie day  more  and  more. 

Neither  yet  doth  it  follow,  that  then  prayer  for  forgive- 
nefle  h  an  efFe^  of  a  weake  faith ;  becaufe  though  our 
faith  were  ftrong,  yet  the  feeling  of  ourowne  wretched- 
nefTe,  the  juft  defert  of  finne,  and  the  wrath  of  God  due 
unto  us,  wou^d  wring  out  fuch  entrcatie  fromus :  as  wee 
fee  the  cxtremitic  which  our  Saviour  Chrid  was  in  upon 
the  croflcrrvidehim  cry  out  fo  mainely,  My  God,  my  God, 

tvhy 


7 


i^Jfuranceoffalvationmay  be  ohtatKed. 


103 


why  hafi  thouforfaken  me  ?  albeit  he  was  fully  aflfured  that 
God  neither  had,  not  would  utterly  forfake  him. 

Againe,  one  chicfe  realbn  and  end  of  our  praying  to 
God  for  pardon  is /that  wee  may  alwaies  acknowledge, 
that  every  finne  committed  by  us  deferves  everlafting  dam- 
nation of  it  fclfc,  and  fliould  everlaftingiy  bepunifhed,  if 
that  God  had  not  accepted  our  Saviour  ChriRs  fatisfadb'on 
for  us :  By  which  though  we  are  freed  if  wee  reft  on  him  by 
faich ,'  yet  both  it  is  our  duty  according  to  Gods  Comman- 
dcmcnt  to  fue  for  pardon  for  his  fskc;  and  in  truth  if  wee 
doe  it  not ,  wee  have  no  realbn  to  perfwade  our  felves  that 
our  finnes  are  pardoned.  For  howlbcver  it  is  true ,  that 
Chrift  our  Head  hath  paid  the  price  ofourranfome,  yet  it 
is  alfo  true,  that  we  every  day  dcferve  damnation,  and  muft 
entreat  God  for  pardon ,  that  fo  wee  may  come  to  that 
aflurance,  which  the  Lord  hath  cnjoyned  us  to  labour  and 
feekefor. 

The  Spirit  that  leadeth  us  to  Chrift ,  doth  ftirrc  us  up 
with  all  earneftncflc  and  confidence  to  crave  pardon  and 
fbrgivencfle  of  our  finnes.  Thefe  two,  Confidence  and 
Prayer,God  hath  joy ned  together,  and  no  man  can  or  may 
put  them  afunder.  Our  faith  aflbreth  us  not  of  forgiveneffe 
of  finnes  without  prayer,  but  that  God  forgiveth  us  when 
wccpray  :  Nor  is  this  heavenly  pledge ,  while  dormant, 
though  truly  dwelling  in  our  Ibules,  immediately  apt  to 
juftifie. 

Matters  of  faith  bee  of  divers  forts  :  Some  fully  a<5led 
and  done  already,  andthofeweeonelybeleevc,  we  doe 
not  pray  for  them;  as  the  creation  of  the  Worlds  the 
birth,  and  death  and  refurre<^ion  ofChrift ,  and  other  fuch 
like : Other-lbme arebeleevedjas defigned,  prorrifed,and 
in  a  fort  conferred,  but  not  yet  fully  a6):ed and eflFecled 
to  us :  which  wee  fobeleeve  by  faith,  as  that  (iill  we  pray 
for  them,  till  they  bee  fully  accomplifhed  andefFe<^ea. 
The  Papifts  confefle ,  that  'Petevy  Taui,  and  fome  other 
particular  perfons ,  to  whom  our  Saviour  faid ,  Thyfmnes 
are  forgiven  thee,  were  affured  of  the  remilfion  of  their 

H  4  iniquities: 


Matth.  17.-^6. 


Zech.ii.  ro. 


leUdT.dt  Juft' 
lib.  I'Caf.  II. 
Rhem.annet.in 

Matth.9.1. 


7- 


104 


1. 


I  John  I.  8,^. 

J  Sam- 11.11, 
13.  wichPfal. 
5i.i,a.&c. 


i^ffur^nce  cffahation  may  be  obtained. 


\  iniquities :  and  yet  they  ceafed  not  to  pray,  forgive  ns  our 
trefvttfes.  Doe  they  not  lee  then ,  that  prayer  for  pardon 
will  ftand  wtU  v^ith  aflurance  ofremiflion?  And  why 
doe  they  condemne  that  in  us,  which  was  well  done  by 
others  ? 

Morediftinftly  ,  we  continue  daily  to  aske  of  God  for- 
givenefle  offins ,  according  to  the  direction  andcomman- 
dement  of  our  Saviour  Chrit!,in  fundry  refpedh. 

Firft ,  becaufe  notwithftanding  former  aflurance  of  par- 
don, ifwee  take  our  eye  off  Chrift,  the  remembrance  and 
confcidiceoffinne  muft  needs  trouble  and  diiquiet :  fo  that 
wee  muft  ftill  iooke  to  Ghrift  for  forgivenefle,  and  faith 
lookcs  unto  him  as  a  Petitioner. 

Secondly,  we  pray  daily  that  we  may  have  greater  aHu- 
rance,  and  more  comfortable  feeling  of  Gods  love.  Our 
faith  being  weake  giveth  butweakcafTurance,  and  there- 
fore webegge  daily  to  be  fettled  and  eftablifhed  more. and 
more  in  the  affurance  of  his  favour. 

Tfiirdly ,  we  fTnne  every  day,and  therefore  askepardon 
daily  rbecaule  we  are  to  receive  a(^all  pardon  from  God 
continually,  both  forouroriginall  corruption,  which  aJ- 
waies  in  this  life  abides  withus ,  and  for  a^Stuall  fins,whicb 
we  daily  and  hourely  commit  againft  the  Majefty  of  God. 
Hee  that  once  beleeveth  is  thereby  made  a  member  ©f 
Chrifts  myfiicall  body  ,  and  fbhathallhisfinnes  fatisfiisd 
for,  by  the  death  ancf  fufferingsofhisHead  Chrifl  :  But 
yet  it  is  the  good  pleafureofGod^thathee  fhould  dzily 
"bewaile  his  offences,  and  crave  pardon  for  them,  that  he 
might  receive,feele  and  be  alTured  of  die  forgiveneffe  of  his 
particular  and  daily  infirmities.  Even  after  the  infofion 
of  faith  moft  perfe(ft ,  faithfull  repentance  for  (innes  com- 
mitted, is  as  abfblutcly  neceffary  tofalvation,  ajthciirf^ 
infofion  was. 

Fourthly,  God  is  not  GfFandon,heplaiesnotfaf^aiid 
loofe :  but  whom  once  he  juRifieth  from  finnc,  hee  never 
remembreth  finnc  againft  them :  NevcrthelefTc ,  wee  muft 
begge  the  continuance  of  his  grace » that  his  merciful!  par- 
don 


H 


\^(furanc€  offalvation  may  he  tbtained. 


105 


1  Sam.7.T5.j7. 
1  Chron.17.2j. 


]« 


ohnio.  2? 
hn  17.  II 
Plal.Kf.io. 
Hcb.  5.7. 
John  17.  y. 
2  Tim.  4. 18 


don  may  bee  a  gift  without  repentance.  Faith  is  a  futer  to 
God  for  the  accompJifhrnent  of  his  promifes ;  and  becaufe 
weeareafliired  of  his  unchangeable  Jove ,  wee  begge  with 
greater  affiance  the  continuaiicc  of  his  mercy  :  prayer  be- 
ing nothing  elfe  but  the  ftreame  or  river  of  faith,  and  an 
i^xxt  of  the  defire  of  that  which  joyfully  webelceve.  Da- 
vid being  certified  that  God  would  for  ever  ftablifli  the 
kingdome  in  his  houfcand  pofterity ,  forbeareth  not  to 
pray  that  k  might  beefo.  Our  Saviour  Chritt  knew  that 
bisflieepe  fhould  never  perifli ;  yet  hec  prayeth,f/o/y  Fa- 
thert  kfepe  them  in  thy  name.  Hce  prayeth  alfb  for  delive- 
rance from  death  and  glorification,  ofboth  which  bee  was 
fully  affurcd.  PanlkncT/  affuredly  the  Lord  would  deliver 
him  firom  every  evi  11  worke ,  yec  without  ceafing  hee  pray- 
eth to  be  delivered  fi:omevi  11.  Affurance  to  fpeed  is  that 
which  addeth  great  fervencie  to  prayer. 

Fiftly,  albeit  by  faith  in  the  promifeofGod,weenovv 

*eft  afiured  of  the  remifTion  of  finnes,  yet  wee  ftill  pray  ,/<?>•- 

£ivem  oHTtreffafes ,  that  wee  may  more  fully  and  really 

poflefle  and  enjoy  what  weebeleeve  wee  already  have  in 

Gods  affcdion ,  and  doe  in  part  enjoy.  The  remifTion  of 

finnes  is  by  faith  manifefted  to  our  confcience,  and  in  part 

wee  reape  the  comfort ,  fi-uit ,  and  cflfcjft  of  it  in  this  life  : 

but  ftill  wee  are  clogged  with  finnc,  we  live  in  mifery  and 

fcarrow;  in  our  felves  wee  are  condemned  wretches;  ftill 

we  are  are  lyable  to  many  temporal!  and  ipirituall  chaftife- 

memsanddefertionsforfinne,  and  live  in  a  fort  as  exiles 

.andbani!}ied  men  from  the  immediate  and  clearevifionof 

God.  Therefore  being  ftill  in  cafe,  as  if  our  finnes  were 

(flot  completely  pardoned,  finne  as  yet  abiding  in  us,  and 

&bje6iing  us  to  the  difpieafiire  of  God  difliking  it ,  and 

to  his  Fatherly  chaftifement  accompanying  the  fame ,  wee 

pray  for  forgivenefle  more  abfblute  and  intire  every  day  in 

the  fruit,  effe<^ ,  and  comfort  of  it.  True  it  is ,  that  per- 

fonsjuftifted  have  full  title  unto,  and  right  in  that  mercy 

I  of  God  ;  which  as  it  hath  already  delivered  themfi:om  the 

dominion  and  condemnation  of  finne  >  (bit  will  in  the  end 

i  wholly 


//ow  ]ufiificatioa 
iifuUand  utTtre. 


V^'  . 


ioi6 


K^^urAYicc  offahamn  may  be  obtained. 


(5. 


Adlsj.  19' 


Rom.".23« 


Pfalm.i8.i.i. 


Pfalm.  231. 


Ifay  3J.2Z. 
Job  34-3  (5- 

John  ao.  28. 


Gal. 2.  :o 
Phil.  T.  J. 


wholly  free  them  from  all  remainders  offinne ,  and  thofc 
chaftifements,  afflictions  and  miferies  wherewith  they  are 
exercifed  in  this  life;  and  in  thisrefpefttheremiffionof 
their  finnes  is  full  and  perfect :  but  lb  long  as  they  live  iii 
this  vale  of  teares  >  fm  hath  its  abiding  in  them ,  and  they 
are  fubjefl  to  many  calamities  by  reafon  of  fin,  from  which 
they  heartily  defire  and  pray  to  be  delivered. 

Sixthly,  wee  have  the  grant  of  pardon  fealcd  in  our  con- 
fcicnceS:,  and  pofleffe  it  privately  in  part ,  but  as  yet  the 
Judge  bath  not  folemnely  pronounced  his  fentence  of  ab- 
Iblution,  nor  fetus  in  full  and  reallpoffeffion,  ofabfblure, 
complete,  intire  acquittance  and  remiflion.  This  there- 
fore we  expefV,  aiid  pray  for,  which  will  not  be  till  the  time 
efrefrefhwg  come.  So  long  as  wee  walke  by  faith,  and  not 
by  fight ,  wee  ftill  pray  for  the  fight  of  that ,  as  touching 
which  wee  have  now  but  the  comfort  offaith  and  hope, 
which  is  in  part  and  imperfed.  By  faith  wee  know  that  we 
are  redeemed  both  in  Ibule  and  body,  y^tfiillwefigh  in 
our  [elves ,  waiting  for  the  adoption ,  even  the  redemption 
of  our  bodies. 

Our  adverfaries^  obje6t  againc,   that  by  praying  that 

Chrifts  merits  may  be  made  ours  in  particular,  wee  greatly 

abaie  them.  As  though  the  Prophet  David  did  abafc  God 

in  making  him  his  in  particular  jfaying,?*^^  Lord  is  my  rock,, 

and  my  fortrejfe^my  Ood,andmjf  Ji^rettgih  ,  my  fhieldy  the 

home  of  my  falvation ,  and  my  refuge  :  The  Lord  it  my 

Jheapheard,fjhall  not  want. "Which  agreeth  fvveetly  with  the 

voice  of  the  faithfull.  He  isenr  God^and  he  willfave  us ;  He 

is  g'wr  Lor/^  (not  onely  by  right  of  foveraigntie ,  but  of  love 

f  andatfe6lion )  andhewilljaveus.  As  though  Elihudid 

'  abafe  God  in  calling  him, /i/y  father  ;(xThomas  did  ahaCe 

,  our  Saviour  Chrift  in  calling  him  j  My  Lord  and  my  God ; 

01  Paul,  when  he  glorieth  and  triumpheth  in  Chrift  after; 

this  manner,  who  loved  me,  and  gave  himfelfefor  me ;  vi  z. 

in  a  fpeciall  and  peculiar  manner,  and  not  onely  as  he  loved 

Efau,]Judas  3  and  other  reprobates.  Wee  doenoiojurie 

toQodjCO.make  him  oursin^particular^  becaufehcehath 

•  .   7  faid. 


K^ffurance  of  falvntion  may  be  okdincd. 


107 


j'laid ,  as  to  ^hrahAm ,  (o  to  everic  one  of  the  feed  of 
^Ahrahami  I  rvilL  be  thy  God.  Wee  doe  noinjurie,  be- 
caufe  wee  doc  not  thereby  make  him  our  peculiar,  but 
leave  him  the  fame  to  others  that  hee  is  to  us;  as  every 
roan  enjoyeth  the  light  of  the  Sunne  to  hisowneufe,  with- 
out the  impeachment  thereof  to  the  ufe  of  any  other 
man. 

§,  8.'  A  third  rcafon  toconfirme  that  a  Chriftian  be- 
Icever  may  bee  aflbred  of  the  pardon  of  his  finncs,  is  this  : 
What  the  Apoftlesand  other  faithfull  men  were  alfured 
of  by  ordinarie  faith,  that  may  all  the  faithfull  bee  afTurcd 
of  in  like  manner.  For  all  the  faithfull  are  Brethren-,  and 
havcthe  Itkf  precfofu  faith  and  promifes.  But  the  ApoQIes 
and  other  faithfull  have  bceneaffured  of  their  lalvation  by 
ordinarie  faith,  '^au/  pronounceth  the  fame  certaintie  of 
other^mens  falvation  that  hee  doth  of  his  owne,  and  upon 
grounds  which  are  common  to  all  the  faithfull  and  Saints 
of  God. 

TheRhemifts  objc£V,  that  Pau/durd  not  affiire  himfelfe 
that  he  was  juftifted, faying,  /  ^wow  nothing  by  my  [elf e^  yet 
am  I  not  thereby  jufhified.  Did  Paul  fpeake  this  as  doub- 
ting of  his  juftification  by  faith  in  Chri(\  ?  Of  his  particular 
aflurance  hee  gives  plentiful]  tef^imony  otherwhere  :  and 
our  Advcrfaries  teach,  that  hee  was  aflbred  by  revelation. 
The  place  makes  (Wrongly  againft  jufl4ficarion  by  works : 
butagainft  certaintie  of  falvation  it  makes  nothing,  unleflie 
wee  ihall  make  the  Apoftiecontrarie  to  himfelfe  j  and  our 
Adverferies  will  fay,  thatamanmay  be  certaine  by  revela- 
tion, and  yet  altogether  uncertaine.  The  drift  of  the  place 
is  to  fhevv,  that  wee  fhould  not  vainely  bee  hfted  up  with 
the  applauieof  men,  becaufe  they  know  ns  not ;  yea,  wee 
know  not  our  felves  thorowly :  for  God  is  greater  than 
ourconfciences,  and  doth  cipie  many  fecret  defaults  in  us, 
which  wee  upon  diligent  fearoit  cannot  -  find  out  in  our 
ownchearts.  But  did  the  Apoftlc,  ptotef^ing  the  innocAi- 
cieof  his  confcience,  intend  to  intimate  his  doubtfulncfTe 
of  mind  touching  his  owne  falvation  ?  In  no  fort  : 
.   ^ ■  f^r 


Jerera.ji.ji.jj. 
and  li  3)1.  ai,d 
302a. 


§.8. 


Heb.j.ri. 
2  Pet.  r.i. 
Rom.P.31. 

1  Cor.7-40. 

2  Tim. 4. 8. 
ijoh.3.14. 
and  5  I}. 

I  Cor.4.4. 


lee.  BelUr,  de 

rtom.8  J  5. 
Gal  i  1  . 
Pliil  i.ipio. 
1  Tim  J. 8. 


}J'^ 


io8 


^jfurance  of  fdvation  may  be  obtained. 


i]oh.j.i9. 
1  Com.  It. 


Pfal  .19.12. 
BeUar.  dt  >/»/. 


I 


1  Joh.5.iOjn,ii, 

13-  . 

30h.10.31.and 


yir  if  our  corfcience  Accnfe  t*s  not,  then  ha^e  we  toUneJje : 
This  is  our  rejoycing  before  ^odf  even  the  tefiimony  of  our 
confcience.  Nay,  this  Text  of  Scripture  well  weighed,  is 
fufficicnt  CO  dafh  the  vaine  cavils  of  thcPapifts :  For  TmI 
wasaflTured  ofhisftlvation,  and  of  the  uprightneffc  of  his 
heart  and  confcience,  though  hec  wasignwant  of  many 
iecret  infirmities  which  the  Moft  High  did  efpie  in  him, 
and  of  that  mcafureof  grace  which  he  had  received.  What 
followeth  hereupon  ?  Even  thefe  two  things ,  which  di- 
redUy  overthrow  the  do(5lrinc  of  our  Adveriafics :  viz. 
That  hee  who  hath  received  grace  from  God,  may  know 
the  truth,  thoogh  not  the  meafure,  of  his  faith  and  repen- 1 
tance :  and  ignorance  of  the  exa6l  multitude  and  greatncfle 
of  our  offences,  isnobarreorhinderanceto  the  ccrttintie  j 
of  falvation.  who  knenves  the  multimde  of  his  fim  ?  Not 
one.  In  this  life  a  man  can  never  fufficiently  underftand 
the  greatneflea«d  multitude  of  his  offences:  yet  may  he 
beeaflured  of  theremiflion  of  finnes  knowncand  fecret; 
becaufe  not  the  perfe6l  knowledge  of  finne  is  the  caufc  , 
ofcercaintic,  bat  the  perfe6l  mercic  of  God,  and  the  j 
perfedi  merit  of  Chrift ;  to  which  wee  mnft  looke  by 
faith. 

§.  p.  If  the  end  of  the  Scripture  be  that  weefhottU  be- 
leeve,and  heleeviMgjhonld  know  that  we  have  eternaUlifct 
then  evcrieBeleevcL  that  knoweth  himfelfe  to  be  a  Belce- 
ver,  may  becerraine  of  his  falvation.  But  the  former  is  an 
undoubted  truth. 

It  is  here  obje(fted,  Whatfbeverwee  beleeve  by  faith,  is 
as  infallible  as  the  Word  of  God,  which  alTurethusof  it: 
If  then  the  common  (brt  of  the  faithfull  doe  not  beleeve 
their  falvation  to  bee  as  infallible  as  Gods  owne  Word, 
they  are  not  by  ftith  affured  of  it.  The  anfwcr  is,  that  the 
falvation  of  a  Beleever  is  as  infallible  in  it  felfe ,  and  in 
event,  as  is  the  Word  of  God,  which  affureth  him  of  it : 
but  alwayes  it  is  not  fb  in  his  apprehenfion  and  feeling. 
The  principles  of  fait:]  are  everalike  certaine,  but  not  ap- 
prehended of  all  with  the  fame  degree  of  certaintic.  For 

there 


^l 


{^jj^axce  offdvatum  may  be  dtaimd. 


log 


there  arc  divers  degrees  of  faith,  lit  t/e  faith  y  great  faith, 
fnM  afurancc  of  faith  j  even,  as  a  weak  eye  and  a  Hrong  eye. 
Andasweakeeyefeethbucweakely  and  imperfectly,  and 
aftrODg  eye  fecth  ftrongly ,  and  more  fully  dilccrnetb  the 
'tfaingfeene  ;  lo  aliitle  futhbeleevcth faintly, though tru- 
i Jy  i  greater  taich  beiccveth  more  ftedfeftly ;  full aflliFance 
la  faith kelecvetb  under hoffy cvenagainfl: hefe.Jhz  Di/ci- 
plcs  of  Chrift  laid  unto  him,  Wee  beUeve  and  k*iow  that 
thou  art  Chrifi  tht  Son  ofth^  Itvtng  God :  which  in  it  (elfe 
was  infallibly  true,  and  yet  they  did  not  foinfjllibly  appre- 
hend it ,  but  that  this  faith  was  fooneOiaken  and  becaufe 
they  did  noi  itifallibly  belceve.it,our  Savioui  telsthem,that 
therefore  he  forewarned  them  of  his  Deacband  Refurrc»Sli- 
on>  that  when  it  wot  come  topajfe  they  might  beleeve.  It 
was  faith  that  made  P<f^^r  upon  Chrifts  words  to  liep  into 
the  Sea  to  goe  unto  him  upon  the  waters ,  beleeving  that  he 
fliouldbe&ie;  but  yet  hee  bcleeved  it  not  infallibly :  for 
when  he  began  to  finKe,^^  cried  out  for  feare^Mafier  fave 
me.  The  Diiciples beleeved  in  our  Saviour  as  the  onely  pro- 
milcd  Meffias  and  Redeemer  of //r4^/.-  but  when  they  law 
he  was  put  to  death ,  they  began  to  rtjggcr.at  it.  The  like 
may  be  noted  of  their  feare  and  doubting  at  other  times. 

Yea ,  that  afl'urance  that  is,  had  by  extraordinary  reve- 
lation xs  not  altogether  free  from  feares  and  doubts.lliaking 
ibmetimes  the  confidence  of  that ,  which  a  man  hath  re- 
ceived immediately  from  the  Oracle  ofGodsowne  mouth, 
or  by  fpeciall  meflfengers  direfted  from  God  for  certificate 
in  that  behalfe.Wliich  \'=,  to  be  feene  in  the  examples  o£  A- 
braham  J faac,D avid  znd  others,to  whom  God  had  given 
(peciall  promile  of  his  prote(flion  and  favour ;  and  ycc  upon 
occafions  they  have  bewrayed  great  infirmity  in  the  appre- 
tienfion  thereof.  And  if  this  befall  rofairh  in  thole  things 
which  are  extraordinary  revealed  (for  it  is  faith  ordinary 
by  which  a  manbeleeveth  fuch  extraordinary  revelations ) 
much  more  wee  may  alfure  ourfelves,  it  befalleth  there, 
where  wee  have  no  other  but  ordinary  revelation  by  the 
written  \\ord  of  God. 

Alfo 


Mat  Z.t6. 
Mar.  i;.2S. 
Rom.4.2i. 


John  6-6^, 


John  14.  29. 
Mat.  1 4. 18. 


Vcrf  jn.j  r. 
Luk>24  21. 


Gc:i.l2.t2  IJ. 

1-falm  31-22. 
I.  San. 27-  !• 


J- 


IIO 


x^ffurance  offalvation  may  be  obtained. 


A  Kb  tbe  Word  of  God  once  fpokcii  and  often  reiterated 
is  of  eqiiall  certainty  in  it  felfe :  but  to  help  our  vveakneffe, 
the  Lord  goeth  over  one  and  the  fame  thing  againe  and  a- 
gaine.  Things  beleeved  are  in  themfelves  more  ccrtaine 
than  things  leene ,  but  not  apprehended  by  us  with  fuch 
aifurance.  Of  thefe  whodoubteth  ?  of  the  other  who  doub- 
teth  not  at  fome  times  ?  The  Prophets,  our  Saviour  Chrift 
and  his  Apoftles,  doe  labour  oft  to  confirme  unto  us  mat- 
ters of  faith  by  reafons,fi  militudes,fignes,examples,incur- 
ring  into  the  fenfes,  not  onely  to  better  our  underftanding, 
but  to  confirme  our  faith :  which  is  an  argument,  that  to 
us  things  fenfible  are  oft  more  certaine  than  things  belee- 
ved, though  in  themfelves  more  uncertaine. 

Moreover ,  conclufions  theologicall  are  in  themfelves  as 
certaine,  as  are  the  principles  upon  which  they  are  groun- 
ded, but  alwaies  they  are  not  h  infallible  to  our  under- 
ftanding and  confcience  :  becaufe  the  inference  isnotfo 
well,  readily  and  plainelyperceived,as hath beene (hew- 
ed before.  And  lb  though  the  falvation  of  the  beleever  bee 
as  certaine  as  the  word  ofpromife,  upon  which  his  faith 
is  fiirely  builded  ,  yet  it  is  not  fo  infallibly  knowne  to  the 
beleever  himielfe ,  it  being  farre  more  eafie  to  conceive 
that  a  beleever  fhall  be  faved,  than  to  aflure  the  confcience, 
thatheeis  a  true  beleever.  What  the  Lord  hath  immedi- 
ately revealed,  that  faith  receiveth  with  the  greateft  cer- 
taintie:  but  what  is  concluded  out  of  the  Word  from  one 
propofition  immediately  divine,  and  another  certainly 
knowne  by  fome  other  light ,  that  may  bee  beleeved  with 
infallible  aflfurance. 

And  fo  hee  that  is  jiiftified  and  hath  obtained  remiflfion 
offinnes,  may  affuredly  know  or  beleeve  that  he  hath  re- 
ceived mercy  of  the  Lord  ;  othervvile  hee  can  never  truly 
be  thankfull  to  God  for  that  inei^imable benefit.  For  hee 
that  knoweth  not  whether  he  hath  received  it  or  not ,  nor 
can  aflure  himfelfe  of  it  without  intolerable  and  inexcufa- 
ble  preliimption,  hoA?  fhould  hee  from  the  heart  give  God 
thankes  for  this  unfpeakeable  favour  ?  But  to  thinke,  that 
1  mortall 


i^jfurance  of  falvation  may  he  obtained. 


Ill 


mortall  men  are  never  bound  to  give  God  thanks  for  the 
grcatcrt  benefit  that  is  beftowednpon  them  in  this  world, 
is  mort  ablbrd. 

It  is  objected,  That  in  this  flare  of  temprjticn  (fuch  is 
ourinfirmitic)  aflurance  would  engender  pride.  And  im- 
mediate and  perfeit  aflurance,  liich  as  is  free  frcmall  al- 
lault,  and  impeachment  of  feare  and  doubt,  might  perad- 
venture,  by  the  corruption  of  our  nature,  be  abuled  to  fecu- 
ritie  and  pride  :  Bntluch  perfedion  in  this  life  wee  attainc 
not  unto;  becaufe  the  Lord  knowes  it  not  expedient.  As  we 
have  a  meafure  of  true  righteoufnefle,  though  weake  and 
imperfe6l:  ib  have  wee  a  meadireof  true  and  comfortable 
aflurance  againrt  feare  and  doubt,  though,  by  realbn  of  our 
weaknefle,  mixed  with  many  feares  and  doubts.  Thus 
the  Lord  deales  with  us  in  great  wifdomc  (  knowing 
our  inabilitie  to  vveild  any  better  condition)  that  by  the 
fweetneffe  of  grace  wee  might  bee  allured  to  yeeld  cheare- 
full  obedience,  and  bee  fiiftained  in  temptations,  and  by  the 
(enfcof  our  weaknefle,  together  with  the  (liarpnefTe  of 
temptation,  feare ,  and  perplexitie ,  might  bee  kept  from 
(welling  in  pride,  fecuritie,  love  of  carnall  libertie,  negli- 
gence to  prelerve  out:  faith,  and  iiichlikev  And  as  fbme- 
times  by  his  admirable  wildome  hee  maketh  iinne  the 
whetftone  of  righreoufneffe:  lb  by  affli6>ion  and  trouble, 
bydiftrufls  and fearefull  doubts,  heewhettethandfharpe- 
ncth  our  faith  and  adfurance;  which  by  fighting  encreafeth, 
and  the  longer  itwrcftlcth  the  Itronger  it  waxci-h,  v\hilef> 
faith  povvreth  forth  prayer,  and  powring  forth  of  prayer 
obtaineth  further  ftrength  of  faith.  Knocking  makes  the 
linke  to  burncmoreciearcly,  and  the  fliakingof  atreeby 
(lormie  blafis fettles  tberooc  and  the  tree  more  firmely  : 
fo  temptations,  troubles,  and  feares  by  the  wife  provi- 
dence of  God  make  for  theencreaie  and  confirmation  of 
Faith.  As  a  man  in  danger  of  drowning  catcheth  for  hold 
to  fave  himfelfe:  fo  vvhilelt  the  comfort  of  life  makes 
offer  to  goe  from  us,  wee  take  the  better  hold  thereof,  and 
it  becomes  fo  much  tbemorfc  precious  and  deare  unto  us. 

By 


'^rlJUr.  de  Jufif. 
tih.-i,  rap.i. 
§ .  Tcr:ia  ratio. 


The  6inefits  that 
come  CMia  m  by 
tefiiptatio'il. 


)•/• 


I  12 


K^ffurance  of  fdvatwn  maj  be  ohtaiftcd. 


§.    10. 


Gal  .J.  10. 


Gal. 5.4. 

Rom.4  14. 
Gal.j.i8. 
i3oh.5. 10,11. 
Ro:rj.6.i3. 


Jerem.?t55. 

Ephcf's.io. 


PLil.t.f-. 


MattLi 


By  our  corruption  vercu?s  become  poyfon;  and  by  ttic 
wifdomcof  God  fmncs  arc  made  medicines :  But  as  wee 
doenot  condemne  vertue,  though  our  corrupt  hearts  doc 
fometimesabufeit;  nor  commend  finnc,  for  chat  it  is  ufed 
as  a  fJ5urre  to  rightcoufnefl'e :  no  more  doe  wee  approve . 
doubting,  for  the  good  that  God  works  by  it ;  nor  difal- 
Jowfullaflurance,  becauTe  of  theevillthat  might  enftic  co 
us  tberebyabufingthefame.  Inbriefe,  prideis  thedaugh- 
ter  of  corruption,  notof  filiall  confidence;  normayitbee 
condemned  for  k,  becaufe  that  weed  fpringeth  from  ano- 
ther root- 

§.  I  o.  A  man  may  bcleevc,  fay  the Romanifts,  that  hec 
fliall  have  eternall  lifci  '\(  hee  keep  the  Commandements : 
but  becaufe  he  is  not  affured  that  he  (hallfo  doe,  he  remai- 
neth  in  feare.  And  veriejuftly  may  hee  be  m  feare,or  rather 
in  de(paire,  that  looketh  for  eternall  life  upon  no  other 
condition.  The  Apoftlc  indeed  doth  plainly  dd^arre  him 
from  all  hope  and  cxp&Sation  thereof  when  hee  faith,  5* 
many  as  are  of  the  vporks  of  the  Lavp-,  are  under  the  carff'^ 
for  it  u  written,  Curfedis  everie  one/^e.  It  is  not  for  them 
that  profeflfe  the  faith  of  Cbrift,by  their  keeping  of  rhe 
CoramandementSjto  expe6^  the  obtaining  of  eternall  life : 
Tee  are  fallen  from  grace  ((aith  the  Apoftle)  that  ivillhe  ju- 
Jlified  by  the  Law :  If  they  vehich  be  of  the  Law  be  heires, 
then  is  faith  made  void.  The  Commandements  of  God 
are  laid  before  Beleevers,  not  as  the  cauf;  for  obtaining  of 
eternal)  life,  but  as  the  way  to  walke  in  unco  eternall  life, 
aflured  unco  us  by  the  free  promife  and  gift  of  God.   And ' 
of  this  promife  and  gift  of  God,  the  keeping  of  Gods  Com- 
mandements is  a  parcwho  hath  laid,  Irotll^ut  my  Law  into 
their  hearts,  and  canfe  them  to  walke  in  my  Statutes.   And 
though  a  man  be  weake,  feeble,  and  imperfc6^,  yet  finding 
I  and  feeling  the  worke  of  fanfiification  begun  in  him,  hee 
maybeafluredthat  hee  who  hath  wrought  this  beginning 
1  of  life,  will  goe  forward  therewith  unto  the  end. 

■Our  Saviour  Chrift  faid  to  the  young  man  intbeGoJpeljj 
I  If  thou  ygitt  enter  into  liftt  ke^^  *^  Commandements  •* 
'  Bur 


1 


{^jfurance  offalvath^  may  be  ehtamed. 

But  that  young  Pharifeevvas  ignorant  of  the  Law  and  his  ( 
owne  eftaccj  refted  in  externaJI  works  of  righteoufnefTe, 
and  when  hee  came  to  Chriftj  was  dcfticiite  of  the  true 
knowledge  of  the  LMeJfiM,  without  which  (our  Adveria- 
ries  will  confefle)  there  is  no  eternall  life  r  and  fo  from 
'their  owne  grounds,  it  is  abfurd  to  imagine,  that  Chrift  by 
thefe  words  did  (imply  intend  to  direS  him  a  way  for  the 
obtaining  of  eternall  life  by  his  owne  works  or  merits. 
Wee  grant,  the  Law  to  which  our  Saviour  referred  that 
young  man,  to  be  the  rule  of  obedience  according  to  wh«  ch 
people  in  covenant  ought  to  walke,  building  their  works 
of  righteoufnefle  upon  faith  as  the  foundation ;  and  obe- 
dience, iflbing  from  faith  unfained,  to  bee  the  way  to  eter- 
nall blifle  :  Wee  acknowledge  alfo,  that  no  man  can  bee 
aflured  of  remi(!ion  of  his  finnes,  who  doth  not  walke  be- 
fore God  in  uprightnefle  and  integritie :  but  this  upright 
unfained  obedience  is  imperfedi ,  the  efteil  of  that  faith 
which  juftifieth,  not  the  caufe  of  juftification.   When  the 
Scripture  pronounceth  them  bleiTed  that  feare  God,  keepe 
his  Commandements-i  a^dwalkjn  the  nndefiled  rvay ydoth  it 
not  defcribe  the  perfcn  whofe  finnes  are  covered,  in  which 
ftandshishappinefle?  Our  Saviour  hath  taught  us  plainly, 
That  except  our  ri^hteoufnejfe  exceed  the  right eoufnejfe  of 
the  Scribes  And  Pharifees,  wejhall  in  no  wife  enter  into  the 
Kingdome  of  Heaven.  What  righteoufnefle  doth  he  here 
meane?  Inherent,  or  the  righteoufneffe  of  works?  for  hee 
preflethanuniforme  obfervation  of  a  11  Gods  Commande- 
mcnts.  The  Scribes  and  Pharifees  did  (as  it  feemes)  even 
thencalumniatehim,  as  they  did  afterward  f^^/  (and  the 
Papifts  doe  us  ftill)  as  a  dcflroyer  of  the  Law ,  becaufe 
hee  reproved  their  confidence  in  works ,  and  fought  to 
eftablifh  the  doftrine  of  faith  ,  which  now  wee  teach. 
Needfullin  this  refpe»5l  was  that  caveat;  Thinke  not  that 
lamcometodejlroy  the  Latvand  the  Prophets:  I  am  not 
come  to  deflroj^but  to  fulfill  them.  And  in  thele  words,  as 
our  Saviour  rendreth  areafon,  why  hee  that  breakcth  any 
of  thofe   Commandements ,    which  the   Scribes  and 

I  Pharifees 


113 


Joh.17.1. 


upright  trdU^iHg 
it  ntccjjarie^  but 
net  the  caufe  ef 
Jujlificatton. 
Pfal.119.1,2. 
and  i.i,i. 
Pfal.Jj.lji, 


Matth.5.20. 


Martli.5.17. 


114 


{^jfurance  effahation  may  be  obtained. 


Vaf.19. 


Vcrf.«o. 


Pharifees  counted  theleaft,  (hall  bee  cmnted  leu^in  the 
k^ngdome  of  Heaven :  h  hee  maketh  pafTage  to  the  expo- 
fition  of  the  Law  in  the  verfes  following,  where  heecleares 
it  from  the  corrupt  glofles  of  the  Scribes  and  Pharifees. 
And  itistobe  noted,  that  he  faith  not.  Except  your  righ- 
teonfnejfe  exceed  the  right eoufnejfe  of  the  Law  and  Fro- 
phets  •  hauExcept  it  exceed  the  righteoufnes  of  the  Scribes 
&  Pharifees,  to  wit,  that  righteoufnefle  which  they  taught 
and  practiced,  who  made  none  account  of  Ibme  comman- 
dements  which  they  called  the  leaft,  urged  onely  an  extcr- 
nall  obfervation  of  the  Law  according  to  theletier,  with- 
out any  refpc£t  of  inward  pietie,  and  maimed  and  mangled 
the  word  as  pleafed  themfelves.   The  Icntence  therefore 
muit  be  underftood  of  inherent  rightcouihefle,  whence  the 
necefTitie  of  good  works  is  ftrongly  concluded.  The  faith 
thatjuftifiethis  lively  and  operative,  ever  conjoyned  with 
an  affe6tion  of  pietie  and  obfequious  difpofition,as  power- 
full  to  bring  forth  deeds  of  mercie,  as  to  make  firme  and 
faithfull  application  of  Chrifts  righteoufnefle,  or  conceive 
furetruft  of  Gods  mercie  offered  in  him.  Now  what  is  re- 
quired in  faith  that  iz  may  jiirtifie,  of  necefTitie  it  mufl  goe 
before  aflurance  of  pardon  and  forgiveneffe.    True  it  is 
then,  that  without  inherent  holineffe  no  man  can  bee  aflu- 
redof  bis  acquittance  fromfinne:  but  if  wee  enquiry  in- 
to the  truecauteofabfolution,  it  is  the  fole  grace  and  mer- 
cie of  God  in  Jefus  Chrirt,  embraced  by  a  true  and  lively 
faith. 

Doth  this  any  thing  prejudice  Chrifiian  aflurance,  that 
without  true  and  fincere  obedience ,  at  leaft  without  a 
promptitude,  aptnefle,  inclination,  andrelblution  to  doe 
good  works,  andwalkein  obedience,  there  can  bee  no  af- 
furance?  No;  For  the  Beleever  relyeth  not  upon  his 
works,  though  hee  exercife  himfelfe  therein  with  all  dili- 
gence :  and  though  hee  know  well  that  hee  comes  infinite- 
ly fhort  of  what  God  commandeth,  and  bewaile  his  daily 
failings,  and  fees  hee  hath  need  to  renew  his  purpoie  and 
refolution  to  better  his  obedience ,  and  condemnes  the 

imper- 


'-■! 


Whatinfrmities  may  fi and  with  ajfurance. 


115 


imperfcdlions  that  hec  efpicth  more  and  more  in  himfeJfe  : 
yet  it  is  not  impofTible  to  bee  afluredofthe  truth  and  up- 
rightneffe  of  his  heart ,  and  fincere,  though  imperfeiV;,  de- 
fire  and  endevour  to  waike  with  God  ;  which ,  as  the  fruit 
of  the  Spirit,  and  efteft  of  faith,  doth  evidence  his  recon- 
ciliation with  God.  For  he  that  feareth  God  and  walketh 
in  his  wayeg,  in  the  perfect  and  undefiledway,  isjuftified 
from  finne.  And  hee  that  knowes  that  he  walketh  before 
God  in  truth  and  with  a  perfect  heart ,  niay  certainly  con- 
clude from  this  truit  of  theSpiritj  that  his  finnes  are  par- 
doned. 

§.  H.  Imightadde,  that  the  faithfull  are  y^rf/r^^/^^ 
Spirit  y  and  by  the  fame  Spirit  are  enabled  to  cry  dkbba 
Father  i  whereby  they  are  aflured  of  the  pardon  of  their 
finnes  :buc  I  will  fhut  up  this  matter,briefly  (hewing  what 
infirmities  may  ftand  with  aflurance  of  faith,  and  what  fins 
cannot ;  that  Chriftians  may  bee  directed  the  better  to 
make  triall  of  their  eftate.  Ifwefaj  we  have fe  How jhip  with 
him ,  andwalke  in  darkfte^e^we  lie,  and  dee  not  the  truth: 
andifwee  fay  that  we  (fuch  as  John  then  was, regenerate 
and  in  the  ftatcof  grace)  have  nofm;tve  deceive  our  [elves, 
and  the  truth  is  not  in  pu .  Even  fuch  then  as  walkeinthe 
light,and  have  fellowfhip  with  God,are  finners,and  not  juft 
or  perfe6i  in  them(elves.  who  can  fay  his  heart  is  cleane  f 
there  is  fto  man  jufiywhoftnneth  not :  and  yettheApoftleis 
bold  to  aflfirme  ,  That  he  that  is  borne  of  CJod  ftnneth  not. 
The  juft  then  tranlgrefletheLaw ,  and  lo  are  finners  :but 
they  make  not  a  trade  of  finncorprofeffion  of  iniquity, and 
(bare  not  law-breakers  or  tranfgreffours.  And  this  the  A- 
po(tleplainelyteacheth,  faying  ,  Every  one  that  hath  this 
hope  (ofbeing  the  Son  of  God  )  doth  purge  himfclfe  as  hee 
isfure,  not  according  to  the  meafnre  of  his  purity  or  per- 
feftiGn,but  according  to  the  truth,in  habit  becomes  like  un- 1 
to  him :  as  on  the  contrary  he  that  commits  Jin,  that  is,  is  a 
cra(ts-mafter  ofiniquity,  and  laboureth  therein  ,  herefem^- 
bles  his  father  the  Devill ,  whofe  chiefc  delight  h  in  doing 
mifchicfe.  Which  is  further  confirmed  by  that  of  our  Sa- 

I  2  viour 


r  John  r.  j;4. 


§.IT. 

^Vhat  infirm  ititt 
may  ^axdmih 
"Jfurance. 


I  Jolui  1. 7. 


Vcrfe  », 


Pro.  so.  p. 
EccleC  7.20. 
I  John  3. J. 


James  2.10. 


I  John  J.J. 


I  John  3.5. 


a 


Ii6 


Jo(i.8. 34. 


[John  5. 18. 


Deut.  31.  5. 


Jam-  5-2 . 


W/jat  infrmities  majjlaad  mth  affurance. 


viour  Chrift  to  thejewes*  VertlyiT»hof$ever  committeth 
fm  is  thefervant  of  fin  :  and  thefervant  abideth  not  in  the 
houje  for  ever'j  btit  the  Sonahidethforever.'IftheSon 
therefore  jhall  make  you  free ,  yeefhall  be  free  indeed-  Hee 
that  committeth  finne  with  delight ,  wilfull  indulgence  to 
tranfgclTions ,  and  unrelenting  oppofition  to  the  clt?are 
truth  he  is  thefervant  of  fin ;  but  they  that  are  made  free 
by  the  Sonne,  are  free  from  the  raigne  of  finne,  not  from 
every  a6l  of  finne.  He  that  is  borne  of  God  hee^es  himfelfe^ 
that  the  wickfd  one  cannot  come  within  him  to  endanger 
him,  the  gates  of  hell  can  have  no  prevailing  power  over 
him ;  he  finneth  not  as  the  world  doth,  which  lieth  in  ini- 
quity:  but  altogether  free  from  finne  he  is  not,  nor  ever 
{hall  bee  fo  long  as  he  carrieth  about  with  him  this  body  of 
death.  To  fin  habitually ,  wilfully,  indulgently ,  with  fiill 
confent  and  greedinefle,  is  not  compatible  with  the  hope 
and  profc(fion  of  a  Chriftian :  This  ffot  is  not  thefpot  of 
Gods  children  :  but  they  have  their  blemifties ,  they  finne 
of  infirmity,  though  not  of  wilfulnefle.  Sinne  in  its  ownc 
nature  is  oppofite  to  grace  :  but  all  fins  are  not  altogether 
incompatible  with  grace,  that  is,  they  hinder  not  thegrace^ 
fall  operation  of  faith,  hope,  and  love. 

The  remainders  of  originall  corruption ,  under  which 
the  regenerate  muft  labour  fo  long  as  they  livt  :  finnes  of 
fimple  ignorance,  and  of  unavoidable  infirmity,  which 
through  weaknefle  the  faithfull  runnc  into  every  day; 
thefe  dot  not  ftop  the  lively  worke  of  faith  in  receiving 
the  promifes  of  mercy ,  but  even  at  the  very  inftant ,  when 
thefe  have  abode  in  thefoule,  faith  can  and  doth  make 
faithfull  plea  for  mercy,  or  otherwife  none  could  pleade 
for  mercy  before  the  throne  of  grace :  For  in  many  things  we 
finne  all, 

Sinnes  of  fbrgetfulnefTe ,  inconfideration ,  and  paf- 
fion ,  whereunto  there  is  not  advifcd  confent  j  thefe  are 
as  m03tes  in  the  eye ,  which  doe  fomewhat  trouble  the 
cleare  fight  of  faith ;  but  notwithf^andingthem ,  the  heart 
principally  adhereth  unto  God  :  and  though  now  and 

.  then 


'.-i 


JV^ap  infirmities  mayjland^itb  affurance. 


117 


I 


then  through  infirmicic  a  Chriftian  bee  overtaken  with 
them ,  yet  may  hce  upon  good  grounds  bee  aflured  of 
Gods  love.    Anger,  pettiflinede,  impatience,  inordi- 
nate fcarc  are  finnes,  which  the  godly  ought  and  doe 
watch   againft,    and  for  which  they  ought  and  muft 
judge  themlelves  :  but  i(  through  infirmitie  they  bee 
over-taken    to  fpeake   an   haftie  or    unadviled    word, 
they  muft  not  therefore  caft  off  their  confidence;  not- 
withftanding  fuch  flips,    they  may  cry  in  faith,    and 
bee  heard  in  their  Applications.    If  4nj  man  finncy  (to 
wit  of  infirmitie,  as  they  doe  whowalke  in  the  light,  and 
addid  themfelves  to  the  ferious  ftudy  of  holinefre)wtf  have 
an  AdvocAtexfith  the  father ,  J^f^**  Chrtftthe  right  eow, 
and  hee  is  the  propitiation  for  our  fmnes.    What  anlwer 
the  Lord  gave  to  Paul  touching  his  temptations.  My  grace 
is  [Hjficieyjt  for  thee :  that  may  bee  laid  of  the  infirmities  of 
the  Saints;  fuch  finnes  as  be  mecre  and  abfolute  infirmities, 
God  of  his  grace,  revealed  in  the  covenant  ofgrace,  is  plea- 
led  to  grant  unto  them  a  pardoh  of  courfe.  Such  finnes  ts 
in  regard  of  their  matter,  are  not  repugnant  to  the  mainc 
offices  prefcribed  by  the  Commandements  of  God,  being 
of  frailtie  committed ,  through  unadvifednefle  or  fudden 
paffion;  thefedoenot  denominate  a  man  a  Law-breaker; 
nor  (b  weaken  the  power  of  faith,  as  that  it  (Kould  not  bee 
able  to  receive  the  prohiiie  of  forgiveneflc;  norfulpend 
theatfhjallclaimeofeternall  \\(c.  Thefe  frailties  may  be  in 
the  godly  without  any  notable  defedl  of  faith:  they  €fe- 
barreiTot  the  fbule  from  cleaving  unto  God.   Abraha^fU 
^u6  of  Sarah,  Shee  «tf  my  fifier;  this  was  an  infirmitie., 
but  did  not  extinouifh  faith.  Sarah  laughed  at  the  promife, 
and  then  denied  it  tbrou^  fearc:  Jatob  beguiled  his  Fa- 
thcTy&yin^^Iamthy  fonneEfatt,'  and  many  filch  like  in- 
firmities of  the  Saints  are  recorded,  which  argue  their  feith' 
to  be  wcake,  not  to  be  depoitd  from  its  foverijgntie.  The 
reafon  hereof  is  not  to  bee  taken  from  cherti^teror  put-^ 
ward  ad,  wherein  they  offended  ;  but  from  their  heart  and ; 
aftcfiiotn,  which  was  more  coclincd  to  good  than  to  evill, 

I  ;  and 


I  Jo}i.».l,t. 


s  Cor.ii.j.S. 


Gen.ii.ij. 
Gcti.iS.iUjiT. 


Gen.s7.f9. 
F.>:od...io,i4. 

Matth-itf  21. 
2  Chr011.55.J2. 
2  Chron.jo.t8, 
19. 


IJ- 


ii8 


Heb.li.ji* 


Pfal.ip.11^15' 


what  pnnes  hinder  ajfurance. 


§.   14. 

what  fini  bindtr 
affmance. 
Pfcl. 51.10.14. 

1  Reg-i  M> 


and  did  fticke  fiift  unto  God,  even  when  through  wcak- 
nefie  they  tranfgrefled.  IBy  faith  Rahab  received  thejpies 
with  peace,  when  through  infirmitie  fliee  offended  in  the 
meanes  of  their  (afctie.  The  Prophet  D4z;/W  was  regene- 
rate without  queftion,  and  had  lure  hope  that  his  prayers 
for  mercie  fnould  bee  heard,  whenhcc  uttered  this  com- 
plaint of  himfelfe,rP^o  can  underfiand  his  errors  ?  Cleanfe 
thou  me  fiomfecret  faults.  Keepe  hack^  thy  fervant  alfo 
from  prefumptuoPis  finnes-,  let  them  not  have  dominion  over 
me  :  then  (hall  I  be  upright,  and  Ijhall  be  innocent  from  the 
great  trar.fgreffion.  So  that  a  faithfull  man  ftepping  alide, 
through  intirmicie ,  in  the  fbrenamed  offences  J  I  ^y 
through  infirmitie,  and  not  of  habit,  cuftomc,  groflc  care- 
lefneffe,  or  dehght)  doth  retaine  his  integritie ;  and  faith 
though  fomewhat  rhaken,doth  keepe  its  ftanding,  and  con- 
tinue lively  to  beg  and  embrace  pardon* 

But  hee  that  finneth  of  meere  frailtie,  doth  humble  him- 
(elfe  for  his  daily  offences,  and  labour  to  reprefle  and  mor- 
tifie  bis  inbred  lufts,  fecketh  forgiveneffe  by  unfained  con- 
feifion  and  heartie  prayer,  reneweth  his  purpofe  and  refolu- 
tiontobee  morecircumfpe6>,  and  Icttethup  his  watch  to 
fliunne  and  avoyd  the  like  fins  for  the  time  to  come :  And 
li  hee  be  overtaken  at  unawares,  hee  is  warned  by  that  flip 
CO  looke  more  heedftilly  to  his  wayes ,  begging  nardonj 
and feeking  help  from  above,  that  hee  may  be  able  to  rtand 
faft,:  fo  that  the  flip*  which  did  feeme  fomewhat  to  loofe 
him,  is  an  occafionof  his  flicking  fafter  and  clofer  unto 
God.  ■  <•>^'5:•.?.  ■  ^.  ;,^,-  t 

§.  12.  But  if  a  godly  man  fall  into  a  foule  and  enor- 
mous crime  wafting  confcience,  for  the  time  hee  lofeth 
fome  degree  of  newneflc  of  Spirit  ,cleanne{Te  of  heart,  com- 
fort of  the  Holy  Ghoft,  integritie  in  a  fort,  and  peace  of 
confcienee.  Hee  plungeth  himfelfe  into  the  ienfe  of  Gods 
wrath  and  difpleafure ,  and  by  his  grievous  tranlgreffion 
the  power  of  faith  is  fo  weakened,  that  hee  can  neither  bc- 
leeve  the  pardon  of  any  one  fin  formerly  pardoned,  nor  lay 
adaali  claime  to  any  priviledge  of  grace  formerly  enjoyed. 

The 


Whatjinnes  hinder  affitrance. 


\19 


John  io,t>, 

John  8,  J  5. 
I  John  } .  9. 


The  favour  of  God  towards  his  children  is  unchangeable, 
the  fentencc  of  pardon  granted  (hall  never  bee  reverted ;  e- 
ven  after  fome  grievous  fall,  the  feeds ofgracc  abide  in 
them,  and  theyremaine  intheftateofjuftification  :  but 
whileft  they  continue  in  fuch  an  eftate  of  finnc,  they  can 
make  no  adtuall  claime  tothe  promifes  of etcrnall  Xv'iQ.  The 
feeds  of  grace  abiding  in  them,  they  ftill  rctaine  their  right 
and  title  to  eternall  life  to  be  given  of  free  and  unde(erved 
grace  ;  but  they  arc  fufpended  from  aituall  claime ,  untill 
they  rifeagaine  by  true  repentance ;  and  then  they  recover 
not  a  new  right  or  title,  but  a  new  claime  byvertueofthc 
old  title.  Foritistheperpetuallordinance  of  God,  that  if 
his  children  ftrike  out  of  the  way  by  finne,  they  muft  rife  a- 
gaine,  and  renue  their  faith  and  repentance,  before  they  can 
haveany  found  or  true  hope  of  falvation.  Therecanbeeno 
Chriftian  afTurance  ,  which  doth  not  fully  confent  and  ac- 
cord with  thefe  and  fuch  like  paflages  of  holy  Scripture :  If 
I  regard  inicjuity  in  my  hearty  the  Lord  wid  not  heare  me  : 
The  foHle  that  fmnethfljall  die.  Know yee  ttoti  that  the  mh-    ,^  ,  , 
righteous  Jhall not  inherit  the  kjngdome  of  G$d  ?  Be  not  de~  Ephe^s.;. 
cetved:  neither fornicat  or s^nor  idolaters  ^9r  adulterers, nor 
effeminate,  nor  ai^ufers  ofthemfelves  with  mankjnde,  Nor 
the  eves,  nor  covetous ,  nor  drunkards,  nor  revilers ,  nor  ex- 
tort  loners,  fhall  inherit  the  kingdome  of  God,  If  therefore 
a  godly  man,  as  David^  turne  alide  into  finne  of  this  kinde, 
hee  can  have  no  aflurance  of  mercy ,  till  thisiniquity  bee 
broken  off  by  unfained  repentance.  For  faith  cannot  re- 
ceive what  the  word  of  grace  doth  not  promile  :  But  par- 
don of  finne  is  promifed  to  them  onely  that  confefle  and 
forfake  their  iniquity ;  that  forfake  all  hnne  in  habit ,  de- 
light ,  and  indulgence ;  groffe  finne  utterly  and  upon  good 
advice. 

§.  I  g.  The  raigneand  abfolure  dominion  « of  finne  doth 
utterly  exclude  grace,  and  he  that  is  (b  guilty,  hath  nothing 
in  him  that  can  cry  or  call  for  pardon  or  forgivenefle.  Jn 
whom  finne  hath  this  dominion,  he  as  yet  is  under  ^  the 
curfeofthelaw,  and  the  wrath  of  God  abideth  on  him  : 

I  4  for 


Erek.iK.4. 


Col  j.f.S. 

hcv.n.8. 


5m. 

Ti-CAhfolute 
ratine  of fm  t,<iU. 
nttfland  with 
tbeftatt  of^T4Ue. 
aRom.6;i2J|j, 
14. 

t>  John  }.  iC- 
Deu  .^.34. 
.Matth.7  iJ' 
Nun- .13. JO, 


/ 


MR""iW!^^W)" 


120 


§.14. 

'  True  affuraree 
\  breeds  encrcafi 
ofrefolu'tormnd 
CATS  to fleafcQod, 
I  John  3.  2i. 


I  Pet.  1.8. 
Aa.s  %.  )9< 
Ronvf*  4. 


True  ajfuraftce  breeds  refolution  to  fUafe  Cod. 


Luke  7.  47» 
I  John  4.  r?. 
Cant.  5.8.&  *7- 
I  Pec  1.8. 
Pftl.  103.1,3,  ?• 
1  Cor.  14.  !• 
CgI.  3-1,1. 
Phil.  3.9. 


fortheprefence  of  grace  infbfedis  aneccflary  qualification 
to  the  pardon  of  finne,  and  where  finne  doth  bearefuch 
fvvay  as  to  (hut  forth  whatlbeverin  us  fhould  intreat  mercy, 
it  aoth  fl-iUt  him  up  under  wrath.  Wereitpofliblefora 
man  regenerate  (which  fna  11  never  befall  them  that  are  cal- 
led according  to  the  purpofe  ofGod)  afcc  r  grace  received  to 
finne  wilfully ,with  full  confcnt,  delight,  and  contentment,  I 
to  the  utter  extinguil"hing  of  the  Spirit  of  grace,  or  finally 
to  abufe  any  extraordinary  meafure  of  inherent  grace,  by  in- 
dulgence to  knowne  finnes  fecretor  open ;  hee  iliould  fall 
from  the  ftate  of  Juftification,  and  bee  called  toafiridl: 
account,  as  well  for  all  his  former  finnes ,  as  this  abufe  of 
his  talent. 

§.14.  Aflurance  offalvation,  if  true,  iseverjoyned 
with  a  religious  and  confcionable  defire  to  walke  before 
Godinaliwcll-pleafing,  and  to  doe  the  things  that  are  ac- 
ceptable in  his  fight  :  and  afiured  ftanding  in  grace  de- 
pends upon  a  like  certainty  of  not  continuing  indulgence  to 
know ne  offences, or  grofie  negligence  in  repenting  or  be- 
wailing fecret  fins.  Where  this  priviledge  ispofieflcd,  the 
heart  is  moft  tender  and  fenfible  of  finne,  mort  watchful! 
to  fhunne  and  avoide  whatfocver  is  dilpleafing  unto  his 
Highneffe,  grieved  with   holy  indignation  for  former 
loofencfle  anduntowardlincfie :  there  flouri.Qieth  unfained 
love  to  G<^  for  his  mercy  ,  and  to  the  brethren  for  the 
Lords  fake  ;  found  humility  and  free  fubmidion  to  the 
Lords  will  and  commands  in  every  thing ;  fincere  and  con- 
j  tinuallthinkfulnefleto  God  for  all  his  gifts  ,  both  in  pro- 
sperity and  trouble  ,  health  and  ficknefle  i  holy  covetout- 
neffe  after  fpirituall  things,joyned  with  found  delight  in  the 
WOrdofGod,  and  bafe  account  of  all  things  ijicompari- 
'ion  of  Chrift  :  holy  and  reverent  admiration  to  fee  his 
ftate  thus  changed ,  from  fo  low  a  depth  of  milery ,  tofo 
great  an  height  of  glory  :  fweet  contentment ,  joy  un- 
fpeakeable ;  with  continuall  care  and  conftant  refblution 
to  better  his  obedience ;  and  mercifull  zealous  defire,both 
by  edify ir^  fpeech  and  godly  example,  to  draw  on  and 

build 


True  alfurance  breeds  refolution  tofleafc  God. 


121 


build  up  others  in  faith  and  godlineiTe.  How  can  it  bee 
conceived » that  a  man  fhould  be  afl'ured  ofthe  pardon  and 
forgivenefle  of  many  and  great  offences  committed  by  him, 
but  it  will  worke  a  greater  loathing  and  deteftation  of  fin, 
unfained  abafement  for  former  weaknefie^continuall  watch- 
fulnefle  to  keepe  himfelfe  pure,  and  ardent  love  with 
inward  joy  that  cannot  be  expreffed  ?  How  can  a  man  bee 
perlvvaded,  that  greater  happinefle  i«  given  him  of  God 
than  all  the  world  is  worth ,  that  more  finnes  are  pardo- 
ned him  than  he  hath  haires  on  his  head  ,  the  leaft  where- 
of is  fufficient  to  plunge  him  into  the  neihcrmoft  Hell ; 
but  he  mud  needs  love  the  Lord  who  hath  gracioufly  loo- 
ked upon  him  in  his  diiireffe ,  rejoyce  with  joy  unljjeakea- 
ble  and  glorious ,  and  keepe  continuall  watch  againft  the 
baites  and  allurements  of  finne,  that  hee  lofe  not  his  com- 
tort,  nordifhonour  God  ,  who  hath  done  lb  great  things 
for  him?  The  Malefad^or  is  glad  of  his  Princes  pardon , 
fpecially  of  his  Highncfle  favour ,  whereby  hee  is  advanced 
into  great  honour  and  dignity.  When  thcjewes  heard  of 
the  proclamation  ofKing  Cyrus  (by  which  they  werefet 
free  from  their  long  and  tedious  captivity  )  they  were  rapt 
with  joy  and  wondring  ,  that  they  were  like  to  men  that 
thinke  they  rather  dreame ,  then  indeed  poflefTe  the  thing 
that  their  fonles  longed  after  :  how  much  more  will  cer- 
taine  aflurance ,  that  wee  are  fet  free  from  the  perpetuall 
bondage  of  finne ,  and  reftored  to  the  everlafting  freedome 
of  righteoufneffe  and  life,  make  us  wonder  at  the  infinite 
wifedome ,  and  unfpeakeable  goodnefle  of  our  heavenly 
Father?  The  Saints  confidering  the  goodnefleof  God  to- 
wards Man  in  his  creation ,  breake  forth  into  holy  admira- 
tion ;  Lord, ,  yohAt  t4  man  that  thou  artfo  mindfttll  of  him  ! 
The  Prophet  calling  to  mindelong  after ,  what  God  had 
done  for  his  fbule  in  delivering  him  from  the  terrour  of 
death,  and  power  of  the  grave,  cannot  pafle  it  over  without 
fervent  thankes  and  praife,  H^hatjhalt  I  render  to  the  Lord 
for  all  hu  benefits  fcw^r^wtf. ''And  when  Peter  cTimzto  him- 
felfe, and  iaw  indeed  that  he  was  delivered  from  the  tyran- 


PWlI(J.I,2. 


Pfal.8.4.f. 
Job  7.1 7» 
P(al.i44.}. 


Pfil.ii^y.ia. 


nie 


■J- 


122 


AChi3<it< 


True  AJfurance  breeds  refilution  tofleafe  cod. 


nito^Hendi  from  the  dcepc  dungeon  and  bitter  death 
prepared  for  him ,  he  entred  into  a  religious  and  thankfull 
admiration  of  the  great  power  and  mercie  of  the  Lord , 
faying;  Now  I  know  for  a  truth ,  that  the  Lord  hath  fent 
his  Aftgellj  a»d  hath  delivered  me  from  the  hand  of  Herod. 
How  much  more  ought  and  will  tnat  man,  who  is  aflured  of 
Gods  favour  and  love  towards  him  ,  for  ever  admire  the 
mighty  power ,  unfpeakeable  goodnefle,  and  rich  mercy  of 
God ,  who  hath  delivered  him  from  the  pre  of  Hell ,  from 
the  power  of  Satan ,  from  the  curie  of  the  law^and  from  the 
waiting  for  of  all  the  wicked  Devils  and  damned  Spirits,and 
hath  tranflated  him  into  the  Kingdomeofhis  deare  Sonne? 
And  if  hee  daily  confider  hisunworthinclfe,  andrenucd 
finnesj  hefhallfcemorecaufe  to  wonder  everyday,  than 
at  the  firftjifcomparifon  may  be  made  in  fuch  a  cafe,  and  to 
renue  his  repentance,  care,  watch ,  and  refolution  to  better 
his  obedience.  For  is  itnottobeewondredat,  that  God 
pardoneth  the  fins  of  his  children  daily,  and  continueth  his 
mercy  towards  them ,  and  the  fenfeofhis  love,  even  unco 
the  end?  Whocanthinke  upon  his  flips  and  infirmities, 
which  breake  from  him  every  day,  for  which  the  wrath  of 
God  is  juftly  provoked  againft  him;  and  withall remem- 
ber how  God  ispleafedtofparehim,  to  grant  him  accefle 
into  his  prefence,  and  to  afford  unto  him  the  fenfeofhis 
love;  but  hee  murt  needs  be  afioniflied  at  the  enjoyment 
of  (b  great  and  incomprehenfible ,  (o  large  and  long  endu- 
ring kindnefie  ?  His  heart  muftbeenflamed  with  love,  and 
enlarged  in  praifes  ftill  more  and  more,  his  affections  railed 
to  ftrive  againft  finne ,  and  let  upon  the  workes  of  hoiinefl'e 
and  righteoufnefle  whereunto  they  are  defigned, every  day 
more  and  more.  Affurance  of  falvation  then  doth  not  be- 
get {ecurity,buttjuickneth  to  more  fincere,  fettled,and  con- 
fiant obedience;  norisitpofiible,  that  a  Chriftian fhould 
hold  his  aflurance  longer  than  he  doth  follow,  cheriHi,  and 
feed  this  heavenly  affection  in  himfelfe. 

CHAP. 


Faith  isgroHndedttfon  the  Word  of  Cod. 


123 


CHAP.  IX. 

F^ith  is  grounded  ft f  Oft  the  Word  of  God,  not  upon  the^ 

aHthoritieefthe  Church^andrefieth  npon  God 

in  ^hrifttnot  Hfen  the  Saints  militant 

«r  triumphant' 

%.  I .  'TpHc  Schoolemcn  dividethe  objc£k  of  faith  into 
A  the  materiall  objcd,  and  into  the  formall.  The 
materiall  are  the  articles  or  things  beleeved.  The  formall  is 
the  foundation  and  laft  maine  principle  whereupon  faith 
relyech,OFthatwhereintothe  aflcnt,  which  faith  yeeldcth 
unto  the  matter  beleeved,  is  refolved.  In  which  fenle,  the 
objC(^  of  faith  is  all  one  with  the  foundation  or  ground 
worke  of  it.  But  hovvlbever  wee  underftand  it ,  whether 
for  the  maine  reafon  and  laft  retblution  of  aflfent  j  or  for 
that  whereupon  our  confidence  leaneth,  relyeth,  refteth ; 
the  authoritieof  the  Church  cannot  be  the  ground,  nor  the 
Saints  triumphant  the  ohjeSt  of  faith  divine.  Wee  beleevc 
that  God  hath  his  Church:  but  wee  neither  beleeve  in  the 
Saiiits  militant  nor  triumphant.  The  ground  or  foundati- 
on of  faith  mull  bee  fome  thing,  which  is  purely  and  (im- 
ply divine,  admixt  with  no  errour,  yea,  lubjedl  to  no  errour  ; 
theindubitarc  word  and  revelationof  Chrift,the  divine  and 
prime  vcritie  revealed  by  infpiration.  But  the  Word  of 
God  alone  is  purely  and  (imply  divine,  admixt  with  no  er- 
rour; the  Church  is  fubjed  to  errour,  neither  hath  it  any 
truth  immediately,  or  by  divine  inlpiration,  butbyfccond 
meanes;  the authoritieofthe Church  is athing create,  di- 
flindVfrom  thefirftveritie.  The  immortal  1  feed,  whereby 
we  are  regenerate  and  madefaithfull,  istheonely  formall 
principle,  or  ground  of  faith.  The  Word  of  God  alone  is 
that  immortall  feed.  Therefore  the  Word  of  God  alone,  is 
thconely  formall  principleof  faith. 

And  even  as  in  husbandrie,  although  divers  inftruments 
andmeMicsbecreqnifitcand  ncceflarie;  to  wit,  plowing, 

(owing, 


§.  I. 


The  aMhtr'ttie  of 
the  nturrh  cannot 
bt  thegrowid  of 
f*tth. 

1  Thcrr.i.ij. 

2  Tim. J.I 6- 


Rom.ii.ao. 


I  Pcti.ij. 


\-f 


124 


The  Papijis  makes  the  Popes  amhmtie 


EpheC».20. 


§.  1. 

TheTapifis.-mk* 
the  Popes  Mitbori- 
tistheondy 
ground  of  fakh. 


lowing,  &c.  yet  the  feed  is  the  beginning  and  fole  imme- 
diate caufe  of  the  graine  fpringing  up  :  even  lb  inthelpi- 
rituall  plantation  of  faith,  in  which  our  fonles  are  living 
fields,  theimmortall  kcdf  which  the  Apoftles  firft  prea- 
ched, and  afterwards  committed  to  writing ,  produccth 
faith,  as  the  Ible  principle,  immediate  motive,  and  formall 
obje«5l  of  faith ;  and  the  miniftcrie,  authoritie,  and  calling 
of  the  Church  produce  the  fame,  as  the  adjuvant  and  in- 
ftrumentall  caule,  oras  the  meanes  of  applying  the  Word 
and  feales  thereof,  but  not  as  the  firft  principle.  What- 
foever  credit  the  Church  hath ,  it  receiveth  the  fame  from 
the  Scriptures,  as  is  acknowledged  by  fome  of  our  prin- 
cipall  Adverfaries ,  and  confirmed  by  the  Apoftle ,  who 
laith  ;  fVce  are  huilt  Ptfon  the  foundation  of  the  Tro^hets 
and  A^ofiUs. 

The  preient  faith  of  Chriftians  is  of  the  fame  kind  with 
the  faith  of  the  Prophets  and  Apoftles.  But  the  faith  of 
thefe  holy  men  was  founded  upon  immediate  divine  revela- 
tion, and  not  upon  the  authoritie  of  the  Church. 

§.  2.  Herein  the  Romanifts  faith  differs  from  the  faith 
of  ancient  Chriftians :  for  the  Saints  who  lived  of  old, 
grounded  their  faith  upon  the  pure  and  faithful  1  Word  of 
God,  as  upon  a  fare  foundation ;  but  the  authoritie  of  the 
Pope ,  whom  they  call  the  Church  virtuall ,   '\%  the  firft 
ground  and  laft  rcfolution  of  the  Roraanifts  faith.   Indefi- 
nitely or  indeterminately,  they  teach,  vvhatfoever  God 
hath  fpoken  is  moft  true,  in  that  fenfe  wherein  hee  meant 
it ;  But  if  wee  defcend  to  any  determinate  fpeeches,  writ- 
ten or  unwritten ,  either  acknowledged  or  liippofed  for 
Gods  Word,  the  prefent  Romifti  Church  doth  rake  upon 
her  ablblutely  to  judge  of  all,  and  everie  part  of  them.  If 
wee  (peake  of  that  Canon  of  Scripture  which  we  have;  the! 
fenfe  or  interpretation  of  any  text, any  article  of  faith  con- 
cluded out  of  it,  theonely  caufethey  dfx.  or  can  belecve 
them  infallibly,  is  the  Popes  infallibilitie  that  commends; 
them. 

The  Churches  or  Popes  pPopofeUi^notonctya  condi-j 

tioni 


a  r 


The  Papifts  make  the  Popes  author itie 


125 


tion  requifite ,  but  the  rcmonftrative  root ,  the  immedi- 
atecaufe  and  reafon  of  their  be  leeving  divine  rcvefations. 
And  if  it  bee  a  reafon  why  they  beleeve  them ,  andfvvay 
the  minde  to  embrace  the  truth  ,  then  it  is  the  proper 
efficient  caufe  of  beleefe.  According  to  theirdo6}iine,  the 
Orthpdoxallanfwer  to  this  Interrogation,  Why  doe  you 
beleeve  the  dodlnne  of  the  Trinity  to  be  a  divine  Revela- 
tion ?  is ,  becaufe  the  Church  propoleth  it  to  mee  for  fuch. 
But  hee  that  admits  this  anfwerfor  found  and  Catholike, 
and  yet  denies  the  Churches  propolall  to  be  the  true  and 
proper  caufe  of  his  beleefe  in  the  former  point,  hathfmo- 
thered  the  light  of  nature^by  admitting  too  artificiall  a  fub- 
tikie  into  his  braincs.  Whatfoeveritbee,  caufe,  condi- 
tion, circumftance,  or  effed,  that  truly  fatisfieth  this 
demand,  Why  doc  yon  beleeve  this  orthat?  it  is  a  true 
and  proper  caufe  of  our  beleefe,  though  not  of  the  thing 
beleeved. 

Wee  muft  here  obferve  that  there  is  a  twofold  refoluti- 
on  ;  One  of  the  things  or  matters  beleeved  or  known,into 
their  firft  parts  or  elements;  Another  of  our  beleefe  or 
perfwafions  concerning  them,  into  their  firft  caufes  or  mo- 
tives. In  the  one,  the  moft  general  lor  remoteft  caufe;  In 
the  other,  themoft  immediate  or  next  caufe  a  Kvayes  ter- 
minates the  refelution.  The  one  imitates ,  the  other  in- 
verts the  order  of  compofition.  In  the  firft  acceptation  the 
firft  verity  or  divine  infallibility  is  that  into  which  our 
faith  is  laftlyrelblved.  For  this  is  the  firft  ftep  in  the  pro- 
grefle  of  true  beleefe,  the  lovveft  foundation  whereon  any 
Religion  can  be  built.  But  in  the  fecond  acceptation  (as  we 
alwaies  take  thole  termcs,  when  wee  refolve  our  owne 
perfwafions)  that  is,  for  a  refolutionofall  doubts  or  de- 
mands concerning  the  fubje6t  whereof  wee  treat ;  aRo- 
mane  Catholiques  faith,  muft,  according  to  his  Principles, 
finally  be  refolved  into  the  Churches  or  Popes  infallibility. 
For  this  is  the  immediate  ground ,  or  firft  caufe  of  any  par- 
ticular determinate  point  of  Chriftian  Faith:  and  the  im- 
mediate is  aiwayes  that ,  into  which  our  perlivafions  con- 
cerning 


'f 


I  126 


the  one  Ij  ground  of  faith. 


cerning  the  effect ,  is  finally  refolved,  feeing  it  can  latisfic 
all  demands,  doubts ,  or  queftions  concerning  it. 

It  will  not  helpe  them  to  colour  over  the  matter,  and 
fay ,  God  revealing  divine  truth  is  the  formall  objei^  of 
faith:  For  feeing  God  workcth  mediately,  and  revealeth 
no  truth  untousbutbyexternalimeanes  :  and  divine  au- 
thoritie  in  it  felfe  is  hidden  and  unknowne  :  thereforethe 
thing  whereinto  our  faith  is  refolved,  muft be fbmething 
externally  knowne ,  which  wee  may  reade  or  heare.  And 
our  Adverfaries  muft  leade  us  to  fecret  revelation ,  which 
in  words  they  pretend  fo  much  to  defie ,  or  yeeld  us  an  ex- 
ternal! foundation  and  formall  object  of  faith :  And  reje- 
6ling  the  Scriptures,  whatlbever  they  glofe  in  words ,  they 
neither  can ,  nor  doe  name  us  any  other  indeed ,  but  the 
%oinan  Pope  and  Church . 

Nor  will  it  boot  them  ought  to  fay,  that  Gods  Word 
in  the  Churches  mouth  is  the  rule  of  faith ,  whereinto  it  is 
finally  refolved,  feeing  the  Church  defines  nothing  but  by 
Gods  Word  written  or  unwritten.  For  this  is  more  than 
the  party  which  belceves  it  can  know;  nor  hath  hee  any 
other  motive  to  beleeveit,  befides  the  Churches  definition 
or  affertion.  Suppofe  then  wee  fhould  conceive  fo  well  of 
a  temporal!  Judge ,  as  to  perfume  hee  did  never  fpeake  but 
according  to  the  true  meaning  either  of  f^atute  or  cnfto- 
marie  law :  yet  if  wee  could  not  know  either  the  one  or  the 
other ,  or  their  right  interpretation ,  but  onely  by  his  de- 
terminations;  the  law  were  little  beholden  to  him  (un- 
leflfe  for  a  floute  )  that  fliould  fay,  he  were  refolved  joy  ntly 
by  the  Judge  audit.  For  feeing  the  Law  is  to  him  altoge- 
ther uncertaine ,  but  by  the  Judges  avouchment  or  inter- 
pretation, his  laft  refolutionof  any  aft  of  juftice,  mult  bee 
cnely  into  the  Judges  skill  and  fidelity. 

It  is  true  indeed  ,  that  the  Churches  authority  is  not 
comprehended  in  the  objeft  ofbeleefe,  whileftit  onely 
propofeth  other  Articles  to  bee  beleeved.  No  more  is  the 
Sunne  comprehended  under  the  objeit  ofour  acluall  fight, 
whileft  we  behold  colours,  or  other  vifible  things  by  the 


vertue 


yi 


Cod  and  Chrt^i  is  the  onelj  ob]  eci  of  true  confidence.  127 


vercuc  of  it :  But  yet,  as  \t  could  not  make  colours  or  other 
thingsbecome  morevifible  untousj  unleflc  it  icife  were 
the  firft  vifible  (that  is,  unlefl'e  iz  might  bee  feene  more 
cleareJy  than  thofe  things  which  wee  (ce  by  it ,  fo  wee 
would  dircd  our  fight  unco  it ; )  fo  would  it  bee  impolsi- 
ble,  the  Churches  infallible  propofall  fhouldbe  thereafo'n 
ofaRomane  Catholikcs  beleefeof  Scriptures)  or  their  or- 
thodoxalllenfe,  unlefleit  were  the  firft  and  principall  cre- 
dible, orprimarieobjedlof  hisbeleefe,  or  that  which  muft 
beemoft  clearely,  moft  certainly,  and  moft  Ikdfaftly  belee- 
ved,  fo  as  all  other  articles  befides  muft  bebelcevedby  the 
beleefe  of  it.  Nor  is  this  propofall  of  the  Church  necefla- 
rieto  the  firft  plantation  of  faith  oncly,  but  to  thegrov\th 
and  continuance  of  it;  as  well  after  faith  is  produeed, 
whilcftit  continues,  as  whiles  it  is  in  planting. 

§.5.  But  to  leave  this  myfterie  of  Romifhiniquitie,  and 
toreturne  to  the  matter.  Theauchoritieof  the  Church  is 
not  the  ground  of  Chriftian  faith,  but  the  holy  Scriptures ; 
and  faith  refteth  not  upon  the  Saints,  but  upon  Jefus  Chrift. 
God  and  Chrift  is  the  objed>  of  confidence  according  to 
the  Scripture.  » God  as  the  author  and  parent  of  all  good 
things,  of  whom  arc  all  things  and  wee  in  him  :  t>  Chrift  as 
the  onely  Mediatonr  of  God  and  men ,  By  whom  are  all 
things,  andve  by  him :  or  by  whom  God  beftowcth  upon 
usallfavingblefsings,  and  by  whom  wee  come  unto  God. 
c  They  are  accurfed,  who  make  the  arme  of  flelli  their  {{^y^ 
and  truft  in  man,  in  whom  there  is  no  help  or  power. 
Theprefent  faith  of  Beleevers  hath  the  lame  object  with 
the  faith  of  >^^^»?  after  his  fall,  Abely  Abraham,  Noah, 
Davidy  the  Virgin  cJl'/rfr/V,  all  the  Patriarchs,  Prophets, 
andApoftles.  For  faith  is  ^  one  in  objecft  and  kind,  though 
different  in  number  and  degree.  But  the  confidence  "of 
Adam,  Abel,Noah->  Abraham^Uz.  wasexercifed  about, 
or  directed  unto  God  in  Chrift ;  not  fet  upon  any  Saint. 
Abraham  and  the  reft,  who  lived  before  and  under  the 
Law,  belceved  in  the  Mefeias  to  come:  The  Apoftles 
and  all  the   faithfull  fince,  beleeve  in  Chrift  already 

come : 


GeA.  and  Cbrijf 

(not  tht  Cliurch 

and  Saints)  nthe 

oncly  ohjel}  tfall 

truf  canfidtnce  and 

trufl- 

a  Efay25  j^^. 

Prj.T3c.5,rt.-. 

an.-l  12.5. 

Provj.r. 

b    J<.h.l4.1. 

I  Pet.i.!i. 

Pfal.i  12. 
c  Jeicm  17.  J, 


Heb.13  8. 


12  8  cod  and  Chrifi  is  the  onelj  objecf  of  true  confidence. 


Bellar.  de  C'^riU- 


Catech.  %om. 
part. I.  cap.lt. 

Rhem.  %Annot.  in 


Ex0d.i4-3i. 
z  Cbron.20.io. 


Deut,2S.6o. 
Job  z\.it' 
Efay  3J.I5. 
I  Sam. 17.12. 
Jona.J.J. 


Jer.iy.f. 


PfaLio6.ii. 


come  :  But  in  nature  the  obje.51  of  their  faith  is  one  and 
the  fame. 

Our  Adveriaries  confefle  thus  much ;  BelUrmine  proves 
Chrift  to  be  God,  becaule  it  is  written  of  him>  Blefed  are 
they  that  p  tit  their  truFtin  him:  And  the  Scripture,  iaith 
he,teacheth  everie  where,  that  we  muft  put  our  truft  in  the 
true  God  alone.  The  Romane  Catechifme  teacheth,  that 
we  beleeve  the  holy  Church,  not  in  the  Church :  by  which 
divers  forme  of  (peaking,  fay  they,  God  the  Creatour  is. 
diftinguifhed  from  things  created.  But  the  RhemiBs  in 
defence  of  their  Saint-invocation,  are  driven  to  fay,  that  I 
wee  are  to  trult  in  the  Saints  departed,  and  that  the  Scrip- 1 
tureufethalfbthis  fpecch,  to  beleeve  in  men,  nSyThe/  ^e- 
leevedinthe  Lordy  and  in  his  fervant  Mofes  :  "Beleeve  in 
the  Lord,  and  yee  (hall  be  efiahlijhedi  beleeve  in  his  PrO' 
phets,  &c-  This  is  their  firft  pretence,  whereby  they  feeke 
to  cover  their  idolatrie,  whereas  they  might  eafily  have 
knowne,  that  the  Vulgar  and  the  Seventie  both  tranflatc 
thele  iplicesyThey  beleeved  MofeSjand  beleeve  his  Profhets: 
and  not,  they  beleeved  in  Mofes,  beleeve  in  his  Prophets, 
And  it  is  certaiae,  the  prepofition  here  added  in  Hebrewt 
doth  not  ever  anfwer  to  In,  in  our  language.  What  ?  that  it 
is  no  lefle  than  blafphemie  to  iay,  that  the  Ifraelites  were 
commanded  to  put  their  (Confidence  in  Mofes  and  the  Pro- 
phets, either  as  the  principal!  authors  and  parents  of  any 
good,  or  as  Mediators  betwixt  God  and  them ,  by  and 
through  whofe  mediation  they  fhould  obtaine  all  good 
things  fpirituall  and  temporal].  For  fo  they  (liould  have 
made  them  their  arme,  who  were  but  flefh.  What  is  al- 
Iedgedoutof£A-<7<5^«<,  LMofes  fpeaketh  in  reproach  of  the 
//r^<?/£r<r/,  who  beleeved  neither  the  Lordjuor  Mofes^  tou- 
ching the  promife  of  their  deliverie  outof  c^^^/pr,  untill 
fuch  time  as  they  having  quite  pafled  the  Red  Sea,  did  fee 
their  enemies  dead  in  the  Sea.  And  though  they  beleeved 
the  truth  of  the  Lord,  and  the  word  of  his  fervant,  when 
they  had  the  accomplifhment  of  his  promife ;  yet  they 
did  not  confidently  betake  thcmfelves  to  the  Lord ,  as 

their 


>»M 


(iod  and  ChriU  ts  the onely  objed  of  true  confidence.         1 2 p 


their  onely  refuge>  and  reft  under  the  Qiadow  of  his  wings. 
For  the  Lord  complaineth  often  of  their  infidelitic  towards 
him ;  and  the  hiftorie  makes  mention  of  their  diftruft, 
murmuring*  and  rebellion  againft  the  Lord.  In  the  other 
place  the  people  are  praifed,  as  thofe  who  refted  in  the 
word  of  the  Prophet,  before  that  the  promife  was  eflFe- 
&.td :  But  they  leaned  not  upon  the  Prophets,  as  authors 
of  their  help;  neither  had  that  beene  praife- worthy  in 
them,  nay,  it  had  beene  detcftable  idolatrie.  If  they  will 
have  the  Hebrew  prepofition  to  be  of  force  in  thofe  places, 
by  Mofes  and  the  Prophets,  we  arc  tounderftand  the  word 
taught  by  LMofes  and  the  Prophets  from  God,  as  the 
Chaldeeexplainethit;  theybeleeved  in  the  Word  of  the 
Lord,  andin  theprophecieof  y^<>/<?jhis  lervant.  Theex- 
pofition  of  both  texts  may  be  taken  out  of  that  of  the  Lord 
to  Mofesy  Lee,  I  come  unto  thee  in  a  thicks  clottd^thatthe 
people  may  heare  when  IJpeake  with  thee,  and  beleeve  thee 
for  ever :  that  '\s,  that  they  may  receive  thee  for  a  faithfull 
and  true  Prophet,and  beleeve  in  the  Word  that  I  (ha  1  make 
knowne  unto  them  by  thee.  And  as  the  Ifraelites  are  faid 
to  be  ba^ttJied  into  Adofes^  that  is,  into  the  doftrine  or  Law 
of  Mojes,  whereof  hee  was  a  Minifter  ••  lb  are  they  laid  to 
beleeve  in  Mofes  and  the  ^rophets^  that  is,  in  the  Word 
which  they  taught  firom  God.  They  were  the  inftru- 
ments  and  Minirters  of  the  Lord,  and  minifterially  the 
people  beleeved  in  them,  that  is,  in  the  Word  of  the  Lord 
publifhcd  by  them.  Of  Sion  it  is  faid  ,  the  poore  of  his 
people  Jhall  truFt  in  it.  The  meaning  is  not ,  that  the 
faithfull  fhall  put  their  trufl:  in  Sion,  asweemufthope  in 
I  God :  but  that  the  inhabitants  of  Sion  (hall  dwell  in  a 
quiet  and  fecure  place;  as  the  Prophets  often  aflfirme, 
that  falvatton  is  in  Sion-  It  may  well  bee  tranflated, 
Tke  poore  of  his  people  fhall  betake  themfelves  unto  it  , 
as  unto  a  place  of  prore*f}ion  and  refuge  by  the  blef- 
fingof  God ;  not  as  unto  the  chiefe  ftay  and  prop  of  their 
foules. 

They  further  obje*51:,  that  the  Apoftle  referreth  faith 

K  and 


Pfal  78.12. 
Hcb.3.18. 


'ieJLtt.dtJulLif. 
lit). I.  caf.lJ. 
SeSlUud  dtniqut. 


t  Cor.io-2. 


ECiy  14  ji. 


JocIj.Ji. 

Job  24.8. 
Pfal  104.18. 


vr 


130         God  and  Christ  ps  the  omly  ol?jefi  of  true  confidence. 


Ph:lcm.y. 
"BeU^r-  de  beati- 
tnd.Sancf.lii.1' 

VeriVJ. 


Epher.1.15. 
Coloir.1.4- 


and  love  to  the  Saints,  faying;  Hearing  of  thy  love  and 
faith, which  th$u  haft  towards  the  Lordjejfd,  andtovard 
all  Saints.  But  in  this  place  faith  is  referred  oncly  to  Chrift, 
and  love  to  the  brethren,  as  it  appeareth  in  the  two  ver- 
les  next  following.   In  the  former  whereof  laith  is  retrai- 
ned unto  Chrift,  and  in  the  latter,  the  love  here  mentioned 
is  carried  to  the  brethren :  which  appeareth  alfo ,  in  that 
other  where  upon  the  fame  occafion,  hee  lo  diftinguifheth 
faith  and  love,  that  faith  is  appropriated  unto  Chrift,  and 
love  referred  to  the  Saints.  For  the  verie  words  alfo,  the 
Apoftle  hath  lb  fenced  them,  that  although  the  truth  were 
notocherwife  cleare,  our  Adverfaries  can  have  no  advan- 
tage for  their  do^hine  of  pinning  our  moft  holy  faith  up- 
on thefteeve  of  everie  Saint :  Foralthough  hee  have  cou- 
pled Charitie  and  Faith  together,  which  in  other  Epiftles 
hee  doth  diftinctly  referrethe  one  to  Chrift,  the  other  to 
the  faithfull ;  yet  hee  hath  ufed  prepofitions,  which  note 
thatfaithmuft  pafle  no  further  than  to  Chrift,  as  charitie 
goeth  no  further  in  this  place,  but  unto  the  Saints.   For 
where  the  prepofition  \i]q]  is  fuch  as  might  have  ferved 
both  to  note  our  faith  to-wards  Chrift,  and  our  charitie  to- 
wards our  brethren;  hee  declares  that  hee  would  not  have 
Faith  and  Charitie  carried  to  one  and  the  fame  objefV,  by 
the  choyce  of  feverall  bands  of  prepofition s,whcre with  to 
tie  each  of  thefe  vertues  with  the  fubje6l  whereunto  they 
belong.  But  to  goe  no  further  than  to  the  Ti^emiFts  Tranf- 
lation.  Can  they  fiy,that  wee  have  charitie  in  the  Lord  Je- 
fus?  If  with  the  latter  claufe  further  removed,  v^hich  is 
towards  all  Saints,  they  will  have  both  Charitie  and  Faith 
conjoyned,  it  followeth  much  more,  that  with  this  claufe, 
In  the  Lord  Jeftu,  which  is  neerer  unto  charitie  than  the 
other,  they  ought  both  alfo  to  bee  coupled-  if  this  be  ab- 
furd,  much  more  is  it,  that  upon  this  ground  of  coupling 
Faith  and  Charitie  together,  they  would  have  them  both 
carried  and  applyed  uniothcfe  words,  Unto  the  Saints.  As 
for  the  order  of  words ,  and  coupling  things  together, 
which  af  e  to  be  referred  diftin6lly,  the  like  is  to  bee  found 

in 


The  benefits  andejfects  of  Faith, 


■'i-r 


in  other  paflages  of  holy  Scripture.  Againe ,  Love  and 
Faith  maybe  put  for  faithfull,  firme,  and  Ikdfaft  Jove ;  the 
like  whereunto  wee  may  often  find.  But  by  this  wrerting 
of  the  place  5  our  Adverfaries  are  driven,  notonelytobe- 
Jecve  in  the  Catholike  Church,  but  alto  in  every  feverall 
member  of  the  Catholike  Church.  For  feeing  the  Apo- 
ftlc  commendeth  'Philgmen  for  his  love  towards  every 
Saint  that  came  unto  him ;  it  followeth ,  that  ii  (  as  they 
(ay)  he  commendeth  faith  towards  the  Saints ,  hee  com- 
mendeth it  towards  every  man  a  part  :  and  fo  every  Chri- 
ftianistobeleeveinother :  which  our  Advcrlarics  will  not 
affirme. 


CHAP.  X. 
Of  the  Efff^^i  SubjeU  and  Degrees  ofjftfii" 
fjfwg  Faith. 

§,  r ,    \J[  Any  and  excellent  are  the  fruits  and  effe(Sls 
i.Vl  of  faith,  for  which  caufe  it  hath  beene  a- 
dorned  with  many  lingular  titles  of  honour.  It  is  called 
the  gift  of  gifts,  the  Ibuleofour  foule,  the  root  of  an  ho- 
neft  li^t,  the  charader  of  the  fonnes  of  God,  the  key 
whereby  the  treafures  which  are  in  Chrift  are  opened  un- 
to us ,  the  mother  of  ibund  joy ,  and  nurfe  of  a  good  con- 
science ,  the  hand  whereby  we  apprehend  Chrifl ,  the  eye 
whereby  wee  fee  the  invifible  things  of  God,  the  mouth 
whereby  wee  receive  the  food  of  falvation ,  the  pledge  of 
our  eternall  inheritance ,  the  earned  of  our  peace  with 
God ,  the  leale  of  our  election ,  the  ladder  whereby  wee 
certainely  and  fafely  afcend  up  to  Heaven ,    the  Hiielci 
of  a  faithfull  foule,  the  fword  whereby  wee  beat  and 
wound  our  enemies ,  the  token  of  our  union  in  Chrift  , 
outvidory,  and  the  band  whereby  wee  are  united  un- 
to the  chicfe  good.    The  fruits  of  faith  are  divided  into 
two  Heads;  Internalland  Externall,  which  theSchoole- 
men  call  Elicitc  and  Imperate.  But  to  fpeake  of  them 

K  2  orderly 


;  Macth.i3.22. 


I  Ths  benefits  and 
ftSi  of  Faith, 


M^- 


132 


The  benefits  andejfecis  of  Faith. 


John  I  J- 1- 
Epher.5-  SO- 

Rom  8.10. 
2  Cor.  1 5  3,^ 
Hof.  a  18,  20. 
Aft.  10..  3. 
Rom.j.aj,!?. 
Ads  13.39. 
Rom9.5i.&»' 
17.&5.1. 
A3  15.9. 
Col.  2.12. 
Gal.3-7-9- 
John  12- 3*. 
Gal  3.26. 
John  1. 12. 
Hcb.  II. «• 
John  7.38,3  9- 
EpheCi.i3.i7' 
Gal.  3.14' 
jDhni5  3  5' 


'15.^. 

Gal.  Z.2». 
John  4. 14* 

Ephef.  3-17. 
Ephcrj.i2. 
Heb.  10.2a.  8e 

4.  14" 
Tit.  i.iy. 
I  Pet-  7 .  5- 
1  John  5.4. 


orderly  as  they  are  (tt  dovvne  in  Scripture ,  wee  finde  them 
tobetheie. 

By  faith  we  are  engrajfedinto  Chrifi^andmade  one  with 
h/mfiejh  ofhisflefhyand  bone  of  his  bom  i\ivt\y  members  of 
that  body-i  whereof  he  is  the  head  :  and  by  Chrilt  wee  are 
united  untoGod.  In  ScripturetobeinChrift,andtobein 
Faith,  are  put  indiflFerently.  By  faith  wee  are  married  unto 
Chrirt,  and  have  communion  with  him  in  his  death  and  re- 
furredlion,  he  and  all  his  benefits  are  truly  and  verily  made 
ours;  his  name  is  put  upon  us,  wee  arejuftified  from  the 
guilt  and  puniQiment  of  finne,  wee  are  clothed  with  his 
righteoufnefle ,  wee  are  fandVified  againft  the  power  of 
finne ,  having  our  nature  healed  and  our  hearts  purified : 
wee  draw  vertue  from  him  to  die.  to  finne ,  and  live  to 
righteonfnefle.   By  faith  wee  are  admitted  into  the  Family 
oX  Abraham,  become  the  children  of  light,  are  adopted  to 
bee  the  Sonnes  of  God  j  are  made  acceptable  unto  him  as 
heires  of  life,  unto  whom  hee  willeth  eternall  bleflednefle, 
and  doe  receive  the  promile  of  the  Spirit.  By  faith  wee 
abide  in  Chrift,   and  have  perpetuall  communion  with 
him.  .It  is  the  loadftone  that  lookes  ever  to  Chrift ,  as  that 
doth  towards  the  North  :  and  as  that  dravves  iron  unto 
it ,  fo  doth  faith  joy  ne  our  hearts  to  Chrift  perpetually.  By 
faith  we  receive  of  Chrift  s  fulnefle,  have  pofieflion  of  him , 
doe  live  in  him ,  and  are  fo  refreftied  by  him ,  that  we  ftiall 
never  wither  or  feele  fcarcity.  Water  in  a  ditch  may  bee 
dried  up ,  fo  cannot  the  pond  which  is  fed  with  continual! 
fprings.  By  feith  Chrift  dvvelleth,  and  ruleth  in  our  hearts, 
we  have  accefle  to  the  throne  of  grace ,  the  temporall  gifts 
of  God  are  fan6lified  unto  us,  all  (pirituall  bleftingsare 
continued  and  augmented  in  us,  and  we  are  kept  to  thefal- 
vation  to  be  revealed.  Faith  overcommeth  the  world ;  the 
manifold  ill  examples  of  the  multitude ,  which  like  a  ra- 
ging ftreame  beares  down'^  all  before  it,  and  the  alluring 
fwect  baires  of  the  dcceitfull  inchanting  world ,  which 
are  moft  flrong  and  dangerous ;  even  what(bever  within 
us  or  without  us  would  draw  from  the  law  of  God  ;  it 
quen- 


M 


The  Benefits  and  Effects  of  Faith, 


133 


our  ibulcs  and  lalvation.  Faith  obtaincth  of  God  what  wee 
askc  agreeable  to  his  will,  prevaileth  with  him,  maketh 
the  ordinances  of  God  fweet  and  comfortable ,  receivech 
what  '\s  profered  in  the  Word  and  Sacraments,and  ma- 
keth that  wee  fliall  never  be  afhamed  or  confounded. 
Faith  encrcaieth  knowledge,  enflameth  the  heart  with 
love  ftro.igcr  than  death,  hotter  than  coales  of  Juniper, 
which  cannot  be  quenched  with  much  water ;  ftirreth 
up  earneft  fighcj  and  groanes,  cnlargeth  the  heart  in 
thankfulnefle  and  holy  admiration ,  bloweth  and  quicken- 
eth  zealc,  renounceth  Sathanandall  hisworkes,  crucifi- 
eth  the  fleOi  with  the  affeilions  and  lufts ;  contemneth 
the  world,  Tcorneth  the  bafc  and  tranfitory  pleafurcs  or 
profits  whereby  it  doth  allure  towith-draw  from  God, 
anddcfpifeth  the  frowncs,  threats,  and  utmoft  wrongs 
that  it  can  doe,  inrefpc6>of  the  love  of  God  andChrift 
JcfiiSjOr  hazzardinghis  part  in  the  cternall  happineflc.     It 
armeth  with  patience  and  invincible  conftancy,  breedcth 
peace  of  conlcicncc  and  joy  unfpeakeabre ,  maketh  valiant 
in  the  combate,  ftriving  againft  fin ,  courageous  in  diffi- 
culties, confident  in  defperate  dangers  j  is  accompanied 
with  holy  fecurity  concerning  the  grace,  protedion ,  and 
loveof  God,  joynedwithacertaineexpedation  of  eter- 
nall  lalvation ,  and  aflbrance  that  all  things  fhail  worke 
togeth#  for  the  beft.     It  fealbncth  prolpentie^receiveth 
earthly  bleflfings  as  pledges  of  Gods  fperiall  and  Father- 
ly love ,  and  lifteth  them  up  to  fpirituaH  nfe :  it  fiveetens 
atfliflions ,  fupporteth  under  them ,  tcaciieth  to  ptofic 
by  them,  beareththem  meekely,  expe6leth  deliverance, 
andtriumpheth  before  the  vidory.    It  feeth  things  invi- 
fible ,  aflurcth  above  likelihood ,  fcnfe  or  reafon ,  allay- 
cth  perplexing  thoughts  and  feares ,    and  breakcth  off 
temptations.   It  ftayeth  upon  the  word  of  promife,  and 
is  confident  of  things,  to  reafon  incredible ,  in  nature 
impoffible,  to  fcnfe  direct  contrary,  becaufe  God  hath 

K  ^  faid 


Rom  j.r. 
I  Pet  1.7. 
»  Con  9. 
Phil.i.2j. 
Rim. 14.7. 
1  Pec  1. 8. 
J«hn8.5tf. 

1  rim.i.iJ. 
Heb.ii.j4,j5. 

2  Chron.it.ii. 

&  20.11. 

I  John  3.  Jr. 
Luke  7.50. 
tpHcf.i-S. 
Rom.8.28. 

heS  ^.i». 
Heb.tJ.T. 
JohnP.5«. 

Hcb.ii-ii,i7>i9> 


l€' 


i; 


:>-T 


Tk  Benefits  and  Effecis  of  Faith, 


PfaI.s7.ijS;iJ. 
E(ayiii.i<s. 

Dan.  <5.»J- 
Jci.  39.  »?• 
Horn  I  I.JO. 

.aCor.4  n. 

I  Tim.  5.15' 
Roiti.i.i»' 
pral.i6.J- 
Luk.aa  3i,J3- 
J»m.  5.1s- 
Heb.io.j8,5?. 
&  II  „ ',7,8. 

3},  J  4. 
Color.i.7. 
eThL^.^.r?- 
Rom. II  20& 
5.1,1.  ■ 

^-r^i  I.J. 

Ifay  ^0.30,51. 
Phil  4.  II. 
I  i^ec  i-S« 
Ephcl.i  8- 
Rom.4..i}3i4' 


laid  them.  It  prefcrvcth  from  ill  meanes ;  laboureth  con- 
icionably  in  the  duties  of  out  callings ,  yet  without  cove- 
toufnsffc  or  diftrai>ing  care ;  fwalloweth  the  painfulneflc 
of  honeft  labour ,  and  obtaineth  many  temporall  bledings 
and  deliverances ,  yea  and  fpirituall  priviledges  for  our 
Iclves,  for  our  po(krity,  and  for  others.  Faith  preferveth 
from  falling,  raileth  us  againe  being  fallen>maketh  courage- 
ous and  hardy  in  the  profelTion  of  the  Golpcl ,  even  to  the 
lofleofgoodsj liberty,  and  death  itfelfe:  it  fweetneththe 
communion  of  Saints,linkech  the  heart  in  love  to  them  that 
fcare  God,  laboureth  the  converfion  of  them  that  goe  a- 
Hray ,    and  the  bu]  Iding  forward  of  them  that  bee  called, 
and  the  comfort  of  them  that  be  diftrefled  in  foule  or  body ; 
maketh  profitable  to  thofc  that  bee  without ,  workcth 
righteoufneflcobcaineth  a  good  report ,  &  wholly  refignerh 
it  felfe  to  the  will  of  God.  And  to  conclude,by  faith  wee  arc 
certified  of  our  eleflion,  are  made  wife  unto  falvation, 
doz  ftandin  grace,  are  aflured  of  profperons  (\xcct^t,  in 
what  wee  goe  about,  doelearnehow  to  want  and  how  to 
abound,  and  poflefle  all  things  when  for  the  prefent  wee 
havcnothingin  hand  :  are  enriched  with  many  fpirituall 
graces »  are  kept  to  our  heavenly  inheritance ,  and  fhall 
bee  glorified  in  the  life  to  come.  Thele  bee  the  found, 
comfortable,  enduring  firuirs  of  faith,  in  which  refpeft  who 
can  but  fay,  that  faith  is  an  excellent  grace ,  a  rich  jewell, 
a  pearlc  of  price,  the  Chriftian  mans  treafure?  Faith  is  a 
principall  thing ,  the  merchandise  thereof  h  better  than  fil- 
ver,  and  the  fruits  thereof  than  fine  gold.  Without  faith 
there  is  no  plenty  to  man  on  earth  :  withfaith  there  can 
bee  no  want  ofany  thing  that  is  good.   For  how  can  hee 
lacke  any  good    thing ,  who  hath  God  for  his  Father, 
Chrift  his  Saviour,  the  holy  GhoR  his  fealer  and  comfor- 
ter ,  the  Angels  to  guard  him ,  Heaven  his  inheritance : 
who  hath  Gods  faithful!  promiie,  confirmed  by  oath  and 
feale ,  to  fecure  him  of  all  things  necdfuH,  grace,  com- 
fort and  earthly  blelTings  >  and  is  kept  by  the  power  of 
God  unto  lalvation } 

But 


"ii  • 


Man  omly  u  capable  of  Jujiifying  Faith, 


I5J 


But  here  it  muft  bee  oblcrved,  that  faith  doth  not  cffeil 
and  performe  thefe  things ,  by  any  cxccllencic  ,  force ,  or 
cflficacie  ofits  owne  above  other  graces ,  but  in  relpc(5l  of 
the  office  whereunto  it  is  afTigned  in  the  Covenant  of 
grace.    It  is  acaufeonely  InftrumemalJ,  and  that  is  attri- 
buted unto  it ,  which  the  principal!  cauleworketh.  Faith 
juftifies  not  as  an  aift  or  quah'ty ,  but  as  it  rccciveth  Chrift  : 
faith  purificth  not  the  heart  of  it  felfe,but  as  it  is  thcin- 
ftrumenc  whereby  the  Spirit  worketh.    Whatfocvcr  wee 
are  made  by  faith,  wee  are  made  it  in  Chrift ;   and  what- 
focver  faith  makes  to  be  ours ,  it  is  alfo  in  Chrirt.  There- 
fore faith  maketh  not  God  to  be  our  God,  butinChrifl; 
nor  Hs  the  children  of  God  ,  but  in  Chrift.  And  whatfoe- 
ever  grace  is  wrought  in  the  heart  of  any  man ,  it  is  the  gift 
ofGod,  the  workc  of  the  holyGhoft  :  but  faith  is  the  In- 
ftrumenc  whereby  the  Spirit  doth  more  and  more  renew 
and  purifie  our  hearts. 

§.  2.  Of  all  creatures  onely  man  is  capable  of  laving  or 
juftifying  faith  :  not  theblefled  AngelS)  who  never  finned ; 
nor  the  evill  Angels ,  who  are  fliut  up  in  priibn  ,  and 
referved  in  chaincs  of  darkneflc  againftthcday  of  judge- 
ment, 

The  Saints  in  glory  doe  injoy  immediate  fellovvfhip  and 
communion  with  God  by  fight ,  and  know  moft  perfe<5lly 
andmoft  clearely  :  But  the  light  ofjuftifying faith,  whicn 
doth  include  and  fuppofe  imperfection ,  pertaincth  to  this 
life,  in  which  we  are  in  the  way  moving  to  perfedHon ,  not 
yet  attained  unto  perfedl  vifion.  So  that  faith  is  proper 
unto  man  in  this  life ,  in  his  journey  towards  his  perfeft 
home  and  eternall  habitation  :  but  all  men  are  not  en- 
riched with  this  precious  gift  of  mercy,  and  rarejevvcll 
of  grace. 

All  men  have  not  faith.  Many  are  not  lb  much  as  out- 
wardly called  ,  the  Ibund  of  the  Gofpel  hath  not  reached  I  '•»>  5?^- 
unto  them  :  many  thathearc ,  underftand  not ,  be  not  af^e- '  &  I""!,""*^* 
(ftcd  with  the  truth  :  and  in  fbme  that  bee  affected,  the  Romj).iJ. 
word  takes  not  kind  rooting,   is  not  well  planted.  Thofe 
_■   -  K  4  to 


5  J. 

OCtll  crtatUfet 
*Miin  ontlj  u  ca- 
pabU  »fjufi,fj- 

»'Pct.a-|. 


iThf/Tj.i. 


/-I^- 


136 


Man  onel-j  U  capable  of  Jufiifying  Faith, 


Tit.i.i. 
Afts  15.48. 
Rom.ir.J. 
John  io.ii,xf,2f« 
John  6.57.3?.  & 
tajj.Sc  17.1,6. 


&  18.11. 


'  Mat.TT.t?. 
Markcx.i;. 


I  John  5.1. 
John  t.xx,!}. 
John  tf.44. 


War.t  I  J. 
Luke  »f.4% 
Afts  2.37.38' 


1  John  1.9. 


to  whom  faith  is  given  are  d^ribed  to  be  the  eUEb  of  Cody 
the  jheepe  of  Chrifi  y  and  to  be  given  of  the  Father  unto 

Thefubjeflofjuftifying  faith  is  man  a  (inner,  called  ac- 
cording to  the  purpofc  of  God,  acknowledging  his  offen- 
ces, and  hungring  and  thirfting  after  mercy.  For  none  but  a 
finncr  can  acknowledge  Chrilt  for  his  Saviour,  ioihe  is  the 
Saviour  of  finners.  Faith  in  Chrift  for  remiflion  of  finnes 
is  neceflary  for  themonely  who  have  offended :  but  every 
finncr  cannot  belceve,  every  one  is  not  fit  to  receive  the 
promife  of  mercy.  The  enemies  of  the  Goipell  of  Chrift, 
worldlings,  hypocrites ,  and  all  in  whom  fin  reigneth ,  can 
have  no  true  faith  in  Chrift:  he  onely  is  fit  to  embrace 
mercy,  whoknoweth  that  he  is  loft  in  himfclfc ,  and  un- 
latiably  defires  to  be  cafed  of  the  heavic  burden  of  )oiiz 
fins.  Faith  is  not  a  worke  naturall,  but  fuper-naturall  j  not 
of  nature,  but  of  grace  j  not  of  the  power  of  our  firee-will, 
but  of  the  efficacic  of  Gods  Spirit,  whereby  we  anfwer  to 
theeffe(Stuallcallof  God,  and  come  unto  him,  that  wc 
might  be  partakers  of  life  eternall.  The  infufion  of  faith  h 
neceflarily  precedent  to  the  adl  of  faith ,  and  grace  to  be- 
leeve  is  given  before  we  lay  hold  upon  Chrift.  And  \^  fa- 
ving-effe6^uallcaliingbe  precedent  to  faith,  the  fubje<Slof 
living  faith  is  man  favingly  called  according  to  the  purpofe 
of  Gods  will.  We  can  teach  no  faith  to  falvation ,  but  ac- 
cording to  the  rule  of  Chrift,  T^pr^r,  and,  beleeve  the  Go- 
fpell ;  no  remifiion  of  fins ,  but  according  to  the  like  rule. 
But  faith  feeketh  and  receiveth  pardon  as  it  is  profered  in 
the  word  of  grace.  Repentance  is  neceflarie  to  the  pardon 
of  fin,  as  a  condition  without  which  it  cannot  be  obtai- 
ned ,  not  as  a  caufc  why  it  is  given.  If  mercy  ftiould  be 
voucblafed  to  all  indifferently,  the  grace  of  God  flionld 
beaboulftertomansfinne,  there  fhoufd  be  no  difference 
betwixt  the  juft  and  unjuft ,  the  penitent  and  obftinate. 
Faith  commcth  to  Chrift  as  an  humble  penitent  petitioner, 
filing  to  the  throne  of  grace  for  what  is  promifed  in  the 
Golpel,and  it  receiveth  according  to  the  promife  of  mercy. 

§.5.  The 


Faith  r^fideth  both  in  Minde  and  Will. 


\\ 


m 


§.j.  The  (cat  of  faith  is  the  heart ,  but  the  heart  con- 
trite, humbled,bewailingfinne,  denying  it  felfe ,  and  afte- 
6led  with  defire  of  remilfionof  finnes.  As  the  ftomackeis 
the  place  in  which  meat  is  received ,  but  it  \^  neceflary 
it  be  defirous  of  meat :  fo  the  heart  i%  the  place  where 
remiffion  of  finncs  is  received  and  felt ,  but  it  muft  be  an 
heart  defirous  of,  and  thirfting  after  pardon.  Wtth  the  heart 
man  beleeveth.  If  the  mind  and  will  be  two  diflin^H  fa- 
culties of  the  foule,  then  juftifying  faith  is  refident  \n  both, 
but  principally  in  the  will;  bccaufe  it  aflenteth  to  divine 
revelation  as  true ,  and  embraceth  the  prom iTes  as  much 
better  than  any  contrarie  good,  the  world ,  the  Divell ,  or 
flelh  can  prefent  to  prevent  our  choice  of  what  itprefcri- 
bethforour  laving  health.  Forthc  word  of  promile,  not 
onelycontainingiruth,  but  offering  good  unto  us,  cannot 
fullybe  received  with  the  underftanding,  but  the  will  alfb 
mult  move  towards  it.  And  fo  faith  is  not  onely  a  know- 
ledge or  affent  in  the  mind  >  but  a  godly  affedbon  in  the 
will,  which  doth  goe  to.,  embrace,  rett  upon Chrift ,  or  the 
grace  offered  in  Chrift.  Therefore  the  nature  of  faith  is  de- 
fcribed  by  words,  which  fignifie  to  ftay  and  roll  our  felves 
upon  God,  and  to  leanc  on  him  as  one  would  Icane  upon 
a  ftaffe :  and  by  faith  we  come  unto  Chrift  and  receive 
him. 

It  is  obje(3ed,  that  one  and  the  lame  vertuc  or  grace 
cannot  be  in  diftin6l  powers  and  faculties  of  thelbulc,  nor 
faith  in diftin6lfubje£ls.  Whereunto  leverall  anfwers  arc 
made :  Firft,  that  one  and  the  fame  thing  in  divers  refpefts 
may  be  referred  to  divers  fubje6ts,  as  the fe  fiibje^ls  are  not 
altogether  Separated,  but  conjoyned  amongfl  themlelves. 
Sofriendftiip  is  one  morallvcrtue,  and  yet  in  the  minde 
and  will  both.  Love  and  hatred  is  nothing  but  the  af- 
fection of  good  or  evill  will  unto  a  thing  knowne  in  the 
underfhnding.  Our  Adverfarics  themlelves  place  hope  in 
the  underftanding  and  the  will ,  attributing  a  double  cer- 
taintic  unto  it,  one  in  relpeft  of  the  underft ending ,  ano- 
ther in  relpeilof  thewill.  And  fo  faith  being  one  •  doih 

properly 


tanh  refidcth 
bfth  inMttidtaid 

mu. 


Rom.To.TO. 

Aa<:  8.57. 

I  Per.i.i^ 

Afts  \6m. 

2ach.'Jitvfriiei 

Cap.6.l-f^n>y. 

'Btnaventura  in 

7,diji  1}  q-2uiTt./. 

Suare^d.l-i.c  I}. 

n  1. 

Sotm  de  natfira  i; 


StUar.d*  Juftif. 


"BtUar ,  ds  JuUif. 
Ub.i-Caf.ttt 


i 


138 


Fatth  refideth  both  in  Minde  andWtll. 


iReg.3,9. 
2Cor.5.i5. 
Afts  T-  39& 
II.  25. 
I  Cor.7.J7. 
Mat>.2t. 
Rom.t.i4. 
Joh. ifi. 

k2i.i4. 

MaM2.J'?. 

Mat.iJ.i4,iy. 

Luk.a4->;* 


properly  poflcflc  one  fubjeft ,  to  wit,  the  foulc  :  but  con- 
fidered  according  to  the  two  faculties  thereof,  it  poflefleth 
the  minde,  as  it  undcrftandeth  and  aflenteth ;  the  will ,  as 
it  receiveth  and  embraceth  the  word  ofpromife.  Secondly 
it  is  anlvvered  ,  that  faving  faith  doth  prefuppofe  know- 
led*^  and  aflcnt  as  the  root  and  foundation  t  but  fornially 
it  is  an  affection  towards  the  promife  of  grace,  andfeatcd 
in  the  heart.  As  the  reafonable  foule  doth  give  life,  fenfc, 
and  motion  as  inferiour  operations  :  fo  ivi^i^yin^  faith 
dah  know  and  aflent ,  biTt  as  juftifying  it  doth  trufl  and 
rely  upon  the  mercy  of  God  in  Jcfiis  Chrift.  Thirdly ,  ju- 
ftifying faith ,  or  faith  as  it  juftifycth,  is  not  one  vertue, 
nor  any  vertue,  but  juftifieth  onely  as  it  makes  us  partakers 
oftherighteoufnefleof  Chrift  ;  which  it  doth  not  by  any 
dignity  or  exccUencie  of  its  owne,  but  in  refpe<51:  of  the 
place  and  office  which  our  mcrcifull  God  bath  freely  and 
liberally  granted  unto  it  .Now  nothing  hindreth,why  God 
fhould  not  givethc  name  of  faith  both  to  aflent  in  the  un- 
derftanding,  and  to  affiance  in  the  will,  and  requireboth  to 
juftification.  And  that  it  is  not  a  vertue  as  it  juftifieth,  is 
manifeft  hereby  >  that  wee  are  juftifiedbythea6loffaitb, 
not  by  the  habit  offaith,  as  Divines  Popifti  and  Protcftant 
confefle. 

But  ifminde  and  will  be  indeed  but  two  names  or  titles 
of  one  and  the  (ameintellei^ualJ  nature,  as  truth  and  good- 
nefle  in  matters  moral  1  differ  onely  in  degrees  of  appre- 
hcnfton,then  there  is  no  roome  for  this  obje<5lionf  Not 
to  difpute  this  point  any  further,  this  is  manifeft,  that 
in  Scripture  the  heart  is  taken  for  the  whole  Ibule,  with 
all  its  powers  and  operations;  as  of  underftanding ,  wil- 
ling  and  choofing,remembring  or  retaining  in  minde,  and 
affe6ling;  that  the  Scripture  doth  (imply  attribute  to 
the  heart  knowledge ,  confidence ,  and  afte6lion  ;  and 
that  the  Scripture  hath  no  peculiar  words ,  whereby  that 
philofophicail  diftinflion  of  minde  and  will  may  be  confir- 
med :and  therefore accordingto the fentence  of  Scripture, 
wee  may  feat  faith  in  the  heart  or  reafonable  foule  >  and 


Faith  is  pecultar  to  them  whfi\are  called^  (^c. 


Ji' 


I3P 


not  trouble  our  lelvcs  about  the  diiUn6>ion  of  the  fa- 
culties. 

If  the  Scripture  mention  this  as  an  acft  of  faith.  To  b;- 
Jeeve  that  Chrifi  u  the  Sonne  ofGodyWbich  is  I'eated  in  the 
minde ;  it  mu(i  bee  remembred,  that  words  of  knowledge 
doe  together  by  connotation  imply  affcd^ion ,  much  more 
words  of  beleefe  :  and  therefore  where  weefinde  Tobe- 
leeve  that  Chrift  is  the  fonne  of  God,  wee  muft  conceive 
this  beleefe  to  containe  confidence  in  the  Sonne.  Words 
of  knowledge  moft  ufually  import  >  not  idle  knowledge 
in  the  minde?  but  true  and  unfained  affedions  in  the  heart, 
which  accompany  that  knowledge.  Knowledge  is  the 
ground  ofconfidence ,  and  fo  it  is  put  for  confidence  which 
it  doth  bring  forth. 

The  whole  intelle6>uall  nature  is  the  feat  of  faith ,  and 
that  faith  which  juftifyeth  is  well-rooted,  and  taketh 
kindly  in  the  ibule ;  otherwife  it  could  not  feafoo  the 
whole  lumpe ,  difperfe  its  vertiie  into  every  affed^ion,  com- 
mand every  paflion,  and  bring  into  fubjedion  whatfoever 
doth  make  head  againlt  the  power  of  godlinefle.  Faith 
that  is  not  well  planted  can  neither  Ibundly  receive,  nor 
firmely  hold  Chrift;  butby  the  allurements  of  the  world, 
the  lufts  of  the  flefh,  and  aflaults  of  Satan  it  is  eafily  over- 
turned. The  ftonie  ground  received  the  feed,  but  wanting 
good  root  it  withered ,  and  brought  forth  no  fruit  to  ripe- 
nefle.  Whileft  faith  poffeffeth  the  caftleofthe  foule,  it 
can  as  eafily  overcome  the  aflaults  of  the  Flefh,  the  World, 
and  the  Devill ;  as  honeft  fubjeils ,  which  hold  the  heart 
of  the  Kingdorae ,  can  vanquilli  and  bring  under  the  Icat- 
tered  forces  of  an  enemie,  that  makes  inrodes  upon  the 
borders.  Butifthe  heartbetakennpwith  worldly  delights, 
or  vaine  lufts  be  fuffcred  to  build  their  caftle  therein ,  then 
fliall  we  be  made  a  prey  to  Satan.  The  cares  of  the  world 
and  pleafures  of  this  life  choake  the  feed  of  life  received, 
that  it  brings  forth  no  fruit  unto  perfcilion. 

§.  4.  This  faith  well  rooted  is  common  to  all,  and  pro- 
per to  them  onely,  who  be  called  according  to  the  purpole 

of 


Pfal.ai.i. 
PfaI.ii,.ii.ao. 
Pro.  3.  5. 
Chtrmiit.  let. 
ctm,  dcjuftif. 
fca.Pcftremum 
mtmb.de  def fid. 
I  Jofi.J.i. 
Uom.io.?, 
'Joh.  5.4,5. 
20.  verft. 
I  Joh  a.  4. 
Plal.78.32. 
Pfal.i37.4,y. 
Neil.  6.14.& 

13  14,25'. 
John  17.5. 

£ccl.ii.  I. 


§•4. 

Faith  u pemliar 
to  thim^wht  be 
called  aecardivg 
te  thefUTpofe  af 
€}td. 


140 

1  Cor.4  -^  J  • 
Mac.$).2. 

iPCLl.I. 

I  Pet. 1. 7. 
Rom.  1. 17. 
Gal.i.io. 
I  John  J. 55. 
Hab.2  4. 
John  20.27. 
Aftsi(?.ji.  & 

Ma'.Tt.Ji. 
John  14..1. 

1  PcM.7. 
Heh.ii.iJ,7,8.f, 
io,&c. 

Jamcj  s.it.tj. 
Pbil.i.iy. 

EpheW.ig. 

2  Thcf-Ji. 


y^/^  have mt Ukemeajurcof  F aith. 


Heb.io.}'. 


5  5- 

\All  bauc  not 
likemeafuTff 
fititb. 
Rom.liJ. 
Mat.8.io.3:i5. 
rS. 

Mat.f.jo.&  8. 
2(5. &  14-51.  Si 

Mar.9.2<;. 
Roin.*,io. 
Rorr-14.1. 
3c  iS'i. 


of  God.  All  that  be  iavingly-efFe^tually  called,  and  they 

oncly ,  are  partakers  of  the  fame  faith  in  fiibje6l ,  objc6l, 

kind ,  but  not  in  number  and  degree.  Every  belcevcr  hath 

a  proper,  fingular,fincere,  individual!  faith,  in  kindc  the 

fame,  but  in  number  differing  from  the  faith  of  others ;  as 

the  faith  of  P^rr^r  was  diftinit  from  the  faith  of  the  other 

Difciples.    The  juB  doth  live  S>j  his  otvne  faith,  A  (pe- 

ciall  and  particular  faith  is  required  in  every  one  tnat 

fhall  be  laved.  This  particular  faith  is  commended  by  the 

Holy  Ghoft  in  particular  faithfull  men  and  women :  and 

when  the  faithfull  of  age  and  difcretion  were  admitted 

to  Baptifme ,  they  profefTed  particularly  their  faith  in 

Chrirt. 

Health  of  body,  and  fuch  like  outward  blefllngs,  nwy  be 
conferred  by  God  upon  one  for  the  faith  of  another.  And 
the  children  of  Chriftian  parents  are  within  the  covenant 
for  their  parents  faith,  as  the  promife  is  made  to  the  faith- 
full and  to  their  feed,  and  they  receive  it  for  themfelvcs 
and  their  pofterity.  And  generally  the  faith  of  one  may 
helpe  to  obtaine  for  another ,  fb  farre  as  it  raoveth  to 
pray  for  others.  But  remiffion  of  finnes  and  falvation  is  I 
I  not  obtained  without  a  proper  and  fpeciall  faith  in  them 
that  be  of  ripe  yecres ,  and  have  the  ufe  of  reafbn.  God 
takes  no  pleafure  in  them  who  with-draw  themfelves  by 
unbeliefe, 

§.  5.  The  faith  which  is  belceved  is  one  and  the  fame, 
the  grace  whereby  we  beleevefiipematurallyinfuled,  the 
feateof  faith  an  humbled  and  contrite  heart ;  but  the  mea- 
fure  of  faith  is  not  equall  or  like  in  all.  To  fbme  i%  given 
a  greater  meafure  of  fai^th>to  others  a  leffer:  faith  is  more 
ftrong  inthisChriftian,  morevveake  in  that.  There  is  a 
great  faith ,  and  a  little  faith  ;  afiroftgfaithfZnd  a  vfeake 
faith.  All  living  trees  in  an  Orchard  bee  not  of  one 
growth  or  fruitfulnelTe :  all  men  be  not  of  one  ftature, 
eftate ,  or  age ;  but  (bme  high ,  fbme  low  j  (bme  rich, 
cJthers  poore ;  fome  ftrong  to  labour,  others  that  muft  be 
borne  or  held  up  by  the  armes :  and  fb  it  is  i  n  the  Church 

of 


K^ll  have  not  hke  meafure  of  Faith. 


of  God  amongft  Chriftians.  All  good  ground  is  not  cquall 
in  yeelding  fruit,  fomc  returnes  an  hundred-fold,  (bme 
ihirty-fold. 

Such  perfecf^ion  of  faith  is  granted  to  no  man  in  this 
\iky  that  neither  hee  nor  any  other  can  bee  more  perfedi 
therein.    The  faith  of  all  the  eled  is  fincere ;  the  faith 
of  Ibme  perfe(ft  in  comparilbn  of  others  :  but  abfolutely 
thegrcateft  faith  is  impertcft.  Juftifying  faith  fuppoletn 
imperfe(Sion,  and  isit  felfe  imperfect  in  us  fo  long  as  wee 
live  in  this  world.  It  is  imperfed  extenfively  in  regard  of 
things  to  be  beleeved  ;  and  intenfively ,  in  refpe(5l  of  confi- 
dence, wherewith  w^eleeve  in  Chrift.  Wee  know  no- 
thing as  wee  fliould ,  of  thofe  things  which  we  know  :  and 
many  things  we  are  ignorant  in,  which  we  (liou Id  know. 
We  are  like  the  blinde  man,  whofe  eyes,  now  opened,  be- 
gan to  fee  men  like  trees.  Looke  as  children  know  not  at 
all  many  things,  yet  they  come  to  know  afterward ;  lb  we: 
and  looke  as  they  doe  not  fully  know  thofe  things  which 
they  know ,  but  fuperfieially ;  fo  is  itwithusin  heavenly 
matters.  Hence  our  confidence  cannot  bee  perfedl.  For 
thofe  who  know  God  beft ,  truft  him  beft  :  thofe  who 
dimmely  know  him,  his  goodnefle  and  truth,  they  can  but 
weakely  beleeve  on  him.  In  fpeculative  knowledge  pertai- 
ning to  dilcourfe  they  may  farre  excell  who  come  fhort 
in  confidence  :  butincertaine,  diftin6l,  praflicall  know- 
ledge they  are  moft  excellent ,  that  with  moft  lively  af- 
fiance doe  cleave  unto  the  Lord .  Againe ,  the  my  fteries  of 
faith  are  fo  profound>that  in  this  life  we  cannot  attaine  un- 
to the  underrtanding  of  them  fully  and  perfectly ,  but  have 
need  to  pray  daily,  that  the  eyes  of  our  minde  may  bee  o- 
pened,  that  wee  may  more  fully  conceive  of  the  things 
that  pertaine  to  the  Kinedome  of  God.   And  if  our  eye 
be  dimme  in  fight ,   our  band  is  feeble  in  receiving.   For 
our  will  is  as  much  corrupt  as  the  underftanding  :  and  it  is 
cafier  to  difcerne  the  truth ,  than  firmely  to  embrace  it  a- 
gainft  all  oppofitions.  The  darknefle  of  minde  is  an  im- 
pediment to  full  and  perfeil  knowledge  :  the  corruption 

of 


141 


Faith  fierfeff  iu 
none. 

I  'rbe(r.i.7,9. 
Compared  rvtth 
iThefT.j  10. 
I  Tim.i.j. 
Phil.  3. 15. 


I  Cor.  1.1512. 
M»r.8.i4. 


Pral.^.l9. 


2  Cor.io.  If. 
2  ThefT.i.j. 
Ephef  I.I7, 18. 
&  4. 13,19. 
Col.  I  ^,10. 


/-  Ji' 


142  The  Faith  oft  he  iveakejl  Chrijlian  isfufficient,^c. 


Rom.  1. 17. 


io.6, 7,8. 


§.6.     ^ 

The  Faith  of  the 

fveakffl  C'^'fi''*'* 
ufufficicitt  tofa!' 
vat  ion. 


of  will ,  which  is  never  wholly  removed  inthis  life,  is  a  flop 
and  let  to  perfeiT  confidence.Faith  groweth  and  encrcafeth 
by  degrees  J  which  is  an  argument  that  in  this  life  it  ne- 
ver comes  to  the  higheft  pitch  of  perfeilion  :  For  that 
which  is  already  complete  in  degree,  needethno  augmen- 
tation. What  beleever  is  there ,  who  findes  not  a  conti- 
nuall  combate  of  faith ,  againft  many  temptations  arifing 
from  his  native  ignorance ,  infidelity ,  diffidence ,  the 
wifdome  of  the  flefli,  his  owne  (enfe  and  feeling  ?  &c.  which 
aflanlts  againft  faith  fi:om  within  dot  argue  the  weaknefle, 
as  the  refiftance  of  them  demonftrates  the  truth  of  faith. 
The  tree  is  known  by  its  fruit,  ancffhe  goodnelTe  of  a  caufe 
by  the  cflFefts  it  prdduceth.  But  the  fruits  of  faith  are  im- 
perfeft ;  as  love, joy,  and  holineflTe.  The  faith  oi  Ahrahant 
was  great  and  excellent,  but  not  perfect  in  d^ee :  He  was 
ftrong  in  faith,  and  doubted  not  of  infidelity,  but  of  infir- 
mity hee  doubted  :  His  faith  remained  invincible,  though 
often  aflaulted,  but  now  and  then  it  was  fhaken. 

§.  6.  The  ftrongeft  faith  is  imperfcvSl ;  but  the  meafure 
of  faith  is  fo  divided  by  divine  providence ,  that  to  none 
who  are  called  according  to  his  purpofe,  is  given  lefle  than 
may  fuffice  to  their  (alvation.  The  meafure  of  faith  con- 
taineth  this  in  it ,  that  it  be  a  fufficient  portion  for  every 
one.  God  in  bis  wife  providence  giveth  the greateft  mea- 
fure of  faith  to  them ,  who  are  toundergoe  the  great  eft 
combats.  Hee  hath  appointed  fome  for  the  example  ofo- 
thers,and  in  them  hee  propoundeth  to  the  world  certaine 
tokens  of  his  glory  and  vertue :  and  therefore  he  befloweth 
upon  them  a  more  abundant  meafiire  of  faith  j  not  that 
they  might  acquire  by  it  more  falvation,  but  that  they 
might  fingularly  ferve  for  the  illufirating  of  the  glory 
of  God,  and  bee  an  helpe,  comfort,  and  fiipport  to  the 
weake.  In  the  body  humane  the  bones  have  more  ftren^th 
than  the  flefh ,  not  that  there  is  more  life  in  them,but  that 
they  might  fuf^aine  the  weake  flefh  tfo  here.  There  is  no 
member  of  the  body  fb  weake ,  if  it  be  endued  with  the  fpi- 
rit  of  life,  which  is  not  as  well  a  true  and  lively  member 

of 


J.   I 


The  degrees  of  Faith, 


143 


of  the  body,  as  they  which  are  better  and  more  excellent : 
(b  the  weakeft  beleever  is  a  lively  member  of  Chrift ,  as 
truly  as  they  that  are  more  ftrong  in  faith. 

§.  7.  The  degrees  of  true  and  lively  faith  may  be  con- 
(idercd  according  to  the  divers  growth,  which  God  brin- 
geth  his  children  unto;  and  the  divers  meafiire  of  grace, 
which  God  beftovvech  upon  them ;  accordir^  to  the  time 
wherein  they  have  been  trained  up  in  the  fchooleof  Chrift, 
the  meanes  God  hath  vouchfafed  for  their  building  for- 
ward, their  experiments  of  his  love,  and  their  care  to  ufe 
the  meanes  and  employ  their  talent.  Godgiveth  not  the 
(amemeafureof  gracetoallbeleevers :  allbenotof  equall 
ftanding  in  Chrifts  fchoole,  nor  of  equall  paines  to  improve 
what  they  have  received ,  nor  live  under  like  powerfull 
meanes  of  grace,  &  enjoy  like  helps  ofencreafein  ftrength. 
In  nature  no  man  wonders  to  fee  agrowne  man  Wronger 
than  a  new  borne  babe ;  a  plant  fet  in  a  mellow  and  fertile 
garden,  thrives  fafter  than  that  which  groweth  in  a  more 
barren  Ibyle;  a  Merchant  that  iswarieand  induftrious  to 
employ  his  flock,  to  encreafe  more  than  hee  that  is  remiffe ; 
an  old  beaten  Souldier  to-bee  more  expert  than  one  who 
hath  newly  put  0;ihis  armour:  In  grace  the  fame  holds 
good;  forfaiththrivethaccordmgtothetime,  meanes, ex- 
periments;, and  care  vvc  take  to  improve  our  talentr,andpre- 
ferve  our  faith .  The  de^ees  of  faith  may  fitly  bee  dravvne 
into  foure  heads.  For  there  is  a  weake  faith,  as  it  were  in 
the  tender  bud  ;  a  faith  fbmevvhat  growne  up ;  (Irong  faith ; 
and  full  afliirance. 

Faith  is  weake  fourewayes ;  Firft,  in  knowledge,  when 
a  beleever  is  hut  a  babe  in  underftanding,  ignorant  of  ma- 
ny profitable  thing?  needful!  to  bee  learned  and  pra6lifed. 
Him  that  if  weake  in  faiths  receive  you,  but  not  to  doubt- 
full  difputatioMs-  TheDifciplcs  had  true  faith,  when  they 
were  verie  weake  in  knowledge.  For  though  they-  belee- 
vedthatChrifl  was  the  Meffiah,  yet  they  were  ignorant 
of  his  Death,  and  Refiirre«£lion,  and  Afcenfion.  •  When 
hcetold  themof  hisfufferings,  they  underftood  not  that 
_^  faying ; 


§.7. 

The  degrt*f  'f 
failh. 


r.  Weaken 

Faith  u  ivea^f  in 
fmtre  rej)it(ft- 
Rom.ii|.i.  and 
I^T. 

Heb.y.rr.ij. 
I  Co:.8.io. 


Matih.io.K?. 
I-iik  9  4^ 
Malk.9  p. 


l-1i- 


144 


Th  degrees  of  Faith, 


Joh  10.9. 
Maik.i''  II. 


Mark.9.24' 

3- 


andi4-3i' 


Pfal.73-i8. 


Matdi.Jtf-s^. 


\  faying ;  when  OHarie  told  them  of  his  refiirre(5lion,  they 
I  beletved  it  not ;  when  heefpakeof  his  tarrying  with  them 
a  little,  and  then  of  going  unto  his  Father,  they  knew  not 
what  it  meant. 

Secondly,  faith  is  weake  in  aflent,  when  a  Chriftiangives 
credit  to  the  principles  of  doilrine  and  promifes  of  life, 
not  only  a  true  and  ccnaine,  but  as  much  better  than  life  it 
felfe,  yet  not  without  much  reafoning  and  difputing  in  him- 
felfe.  Lord,  I  beleevcy  he/p  mine  Mnbeleefe, 

Thirdly*  in  confidence  it  is  feeble,  when  the  Beleever 
rolls  himlcfe  upon  Chrift  and  the  promifes  of  mercie 
made  in  him,  purpofing  to  adhere  and  cleave  unto  him, 
though  hee  feelc that  heehangeth  but  weakly,  difcernenot 
the  certaintie  of  his  eftate ,  nor  the  ftablenefle  of  Gods 
promifes,  cannot  aflure  himfelfe  that  hee  doth  belceve,  is 
loone  difcouraged  in  troubles ,  and  ready  to  faint  if  help 
come  not  preiently.  But  when  the  mind  is  perplexed 
with  temptations,  feares?  and  doubts,  and  the  heart  ready 
to  faint,  not  able  with  cleare  evidence  to  receive  the  pro- 
mifes ;  yet  then  this  true  Beleever  is  habitually  refoJved 
(not  without  great  dread  and  wavering)  that  it  is  good  to 
truB  and  voatt  upon  the  Lord.  And  this  muft  bee  remem- 
bred  for  certaine,  that  howfoever  faith  bee  often  fhaken, 
opprefled  with  feares ,  or  turned  a  fide  with  oppofitions 
that  bee  made  againft  it  for  a  time,  as  the  Dilciples  did 
all  forfake  our  Saviour,  and  flee  when  hee  was  apprehen- 
ded ;  yet  the  weakeft  faith  is  advifedly  refolved  to  ftick 
faft  unto  the  promifes  of  life ,  as  much  better  than  the 
pleafures  or  profits  of  this  life ,  and  to  embrace  Chrift 
notwithftanding  anyoppolition  by  allurement  or  terrour, 
that  the  Devill,  the  World,  or  the  Flcfti  can  make  a- 
gainftit. 

Fourthly,  in  the  fruits  and  effects  thereof  faith  is 
weake ;  as  in  the  fenfe  of  Gods  love,  alfnrance  of  his.  grace 
and  favour,  power  to  fubdue  unruly  pafTions,  contempt  of 
the  world,  patience  and  joy  in  tribularion,  and  the 
conftant,  lively  practice  of  holinefle.  Ordinarily  this  \s 

the 


Faith  rvcake  in  one  re/p ec'i  may  hejlrong  in  another .  145 


the  ftace  of  beleevers  at  their  firft  converfion ;  and  who 
cancxpe<ftit  (houldbee  othervvife?  Wee  doe  not  iooke 
that  a  new  borne  babe  fliould  bee  able  togoe  aJone;  H 
ftrength  come  with  age ,  wee  thinke  it  is  well.  And  thus 
it  fareth  with  them  alfo ,  who  are  not  conlcionable  to 
gaine knowledge, liibduc their  corruptions,  cherirti  faith, 
nouriQi  the  motions  of  Gods  Spirit,  pray  earneftly,  watch 
narrowly,  get  refblution  of  their  doubts  ,  u^  up  their 
paflions,  renue  their  rcpentance,and  purpofe  to  better  obe- 
dience. 

But  Ibme  there  are  ,  whom  God  in  Ipeciall  manner  doth 
privi ledge  at  one  time,  and  in  one  day  to  receive  that  grace 
and  gift  ofaflurance,  which  others  are  long  labouring  and 
travelling  for,  before  they  attaine  it.  As  our  Saviour  Chrift 
pronoupceth  o^Zacheusy  This  day  is  this  Man  become  the 
Sonne  of  hhrnhim^andfalvation  u  come  into  his  honfe.  So 
Lydia  her  heart  was  opened^thatjhe  attended  to  the  preach- 
ing flf  Paul :  the  lay  lour,  and  the  Jexves  who  were  pricked 
in  confcience  at  the  preaching  of  y^rrr,  were  quickly  com- 
forted after  they  were  thrownedowne.  The  like  may  bee 
laid  o^ Matthew ,  and  the  theefe  who  was  converted  upon 
the  Crofle. 

Againe,  faith  may  be  weake  or  fmall  in  one  particular, 
when  it  is  great  and  ftrong  in  another.  The  meafure  of 
knowledge  may  be  fcant ,  when  affiance  is  ftrong,  accor- 
ding to  that  a  man  doth  know;  z.s'\n%ahab  Where  there 
is  fmall  aflurance  of  pardon,  there  ftrength  of  faith  may 
difcover  it  felfe  by  ftriving againfl:  doubting,  bitter  com- 
plaining for  want  of  feeling  comfort,  fervent  feeking  to 
bee  fettled  in  beleeving,  earneft  longing  after  and  unfatia- 
ble  delire  of  grace,  high  prizing  and  valuation  of  Jefus 
Chrift ,  and  mercy  promifed  in  him  ;  felfe-deniall,  con- 
tempt of  the  world,  care  to  fearchout  the  finne  that  may 
polTibly  hinder  comfort,  and  expellit ;  continuall  watch- 
fulnefle and  holy  jealoufie  left  they  ftiould bee  deceived, 
and  faithfull  labouring  to  fubdue  corruption.  Thefe  and 
filch  like  fruits  of  found,  lively ,  wel-rooted  affiance  may 

L  be 


Ordinatily  bt- 
lecjCTS  ere  Tfeel^e 
ittlhefirfi. 


Stmepriv  Hedged 

above  ethers. 


Luke  I?. 9. 
AAs  1^.14. 

A(ftst(<.34.& 

Matth.9.9. 
Luke  S2.43. 


Faith  vetke  in 
-enerefpeS  may 
be  ftrw^  in  ant' 
ther. 
Heb.11.3  t. 


f-ic- 


§.8. 
The  benefits  of  the 
•it  I  At  eft  Faith,  if 
true  andlively. 
Rom.II.  I'J. 


John  14. 17. 

EphcC  3.17. 
I  John  5.10. 
Hcb.ii.i. 


John  17.3  ■& 

Col.J.  IJ,IJ< 
Rom.6.4,f. 


1  John  5.  4« 


ajoh.  7.  37,38. 
Rom  i».  19. 
I  b  Rom.  i.i7« 


Tet  fiould  w* 
_/7r/«/;  re  biftroHg 
andrieb  infaitb- 


146  The  benefits  ofthcweakefifmh^tf  true  and  lively. 

be  feene  in  many  that  bee  troubled  with  manifold  feares 
and  doubts  of  their  owne  falvation,  though  they  thcm- 
felves  doe  not  ever  perceive ,  how  God  hath  enriched 
them. 

§.  8.    A  vveake  and  ftrong  faith  differ  not  in  (peciall 
nature  and  plantation,  but  in  degree:  and  thefruites  of 
vveake  and  flrong  faith '  are  the  fame ,  though  not  in  like 
meafure ,  fulnefle  and  comfort-    More  dillindly ,  the  be- 
nefits of  the  weakeft  lively  faith  be  thefe  :  By  it  theBelee- 
veris  firmelyand  infeparably  knit  unto  Chrift,  as  a  living 
Member  unto  the  Head.  A  true  beleever,  though  never 
foweake,  doth  poflefleChrift  with  all  his  benefits,  and  all 
fufficiencie  in  him  ( for  knowledge  of  faith  is  never  with- 
out poflefTion.)  And  fo  he  is  juftified,fan6lified,  adopted, 
and  made  free  by  Chrift.  By  faith  he  apprehendeth  things 
invifible,  heedoth  fee  God,  and  is  made  wife  unto  falva- 
tion. Eternalllife  is  already  begunne  in  every  beleever, 
weake  and  ftrong ,  even  that  life  which  fhall  never  failc- 
The  weakeft  faith  gives  will  and  ability  in  fbme  fort  to 
walke  uprightly ,  and  to  live  honeftly  in  the  fight  of  God 
and  man:  itisalfo  ftrong  through  the  power  of  Chrift  to 
/  vanquifh  Satan,  and  overcome  the  world,  withwhatfoe- 
ver  is  therein,  that  maketh  head  againft  the  foveraigaty  of 
grace. 

a  The  weakeft  faith  is  ever  joyned  with  the  gift  of 
perfeverance ,  and  cannot  utterly  bee  broken  off.  ^And 
weake  faith,  if  found,  will  grow  and  encreafe ;  asachilde 
now  feeble  in  his  joynts ,  may  in  time  become  ftrong  by 
nouriftiment,  and  able  to  runne  about.  It  is  no  wifedome 
therefore  for  any  man  to  content  himfelfe  with  a  little 
faith,  though  the  weakeft  faith  (hall  never  faile,  nor  be  o- 
vercomeby  Sathan  ;  feeing  God  hath  provided,  and  doth 
afl'ord  meanes  whereby  wee  may  be  builded  forward.  It  is 
a  fhame  tobee  a  man  in  yeares,  and  a  babe  in  knowledge : 
to  bee  an  infant  in  faith ,  when  God  vouchfafeth  time  and 
meanes  of  bftter  ftature.  Who  would  bee  poore  that 
might  bee  rich  ?  weake,  that  might  be  ftrong?  who  would 

live 


F atth  fomervhat  growfte.     Strong  Faith. 


147 


live  in  feare  and  care,  that  might  reft  confident  and  fecure  ? 

who  would  walke  penfively ,  that  might  continually  re- 

joycc  and  triumph?  A  weakc  faith  will  bring  to  falvacion, 

butanrongfaithisnecelTary  for  a  Chriftian  ,  that  he  may 

overcome  with  more  eafe,  fight  more  manfully ,  endure 

with  patience,  and  obey  with  cheerfulnefle.    The  leaft 

dramme  of  faith  is  more  precious  than  gold  that  peri- 

fheth,  better  than  the  whole  world ;  who,  that  knoweth 

the  price  and  valueof  fuch  a  jewell ,  would  not  dehrc  and 

labour  to  be  furnifhed  with  it ,  and  grow  rich  therein  ?  In 

earthly  things  a  fulleftatepleafethbeft  :  in  heavenly  fliall 

wee  bee  contented  to  live  from  hand  to  mouth,  and  fcarcc 

that ,  when  we  might  with  better  allowance  enjoy  plenty? 

All  living  things  have  an  appetite  to  feekcanddefirenou- 

rifliment  for  increale  unto  perfefl  ftature  in  their  kind  : 

herbs  and  plants  fucke  juyce  out  ofthe  earth;  new  borne 

babes  defire  the  mothers  breaft.   All  true  graces  are  ^iW 

growing  from  a  graine  of  Muftard  feed  to  a  great  tree ;  and 

lively  &ith  doth  covet  incrcafe  from  feeble  ftate  to  better 

growth,  from  growth  to  ftrength/romftrength  to  full  afTu- 

rance.  • 

§•  9.  Faith  fomewhar  growne  is ,  when  the  beleever  | 
is  better  acquainted  with  thedo6trineofialvation,giveth 
morefall,  ablblute,  and  unlimited  aflent  to  the  Word  of 
truth  than  formerly ,   cleaveth  fafter  to  the  promifes  of 
mercy  inJcfusChrift,  is  better  ftablidied  in  the  pradlice 
ofgodlinefle,  and  hath  obtained  fome  fettled boldnefle, 
and  confidence  at  Ibme  times  ;  though  hee  be  rtill  ignorant 
of  many  priviledges  which  he  might  enjoy ,  and  of  which 
hemightbeafluredbythe  grace  and  bounty  ofthe  Lord  5 
yea  though  through  weakeneffe  he  wavereth  often ,  doubt- 
ethagaineandagaine,  and  becommeth  like  the  fmoaking 
flaxe. 

Strong  faith  excelleth  the  former  in  certaine  know- 
ledge ,  firme  and  full  aflent,  lively  confidence  joy ned  with 
fincere  purpofe  and  refolution  of  unpartiall  ana  conftant 
obedience.  This  beleever  is  better  acquainted  with  the 
____^  L  2  promiles 


Mat  13.31,32. 


2 .  Somewhat 
grownu 


l.Srrtng, 


rto- 


148 


T/?e  benejits  offitllajfurance. 


Mat'.h.ij.iS 
&  8>  10. 


4.  FuB  aJfuraHce. 
ColofTa.i. 
Rom. 15. 14. 
eoloff.i.ij. 
Rom. 4.  2u. 

Job  ij.i?' 
ffter  4  i-f. 


Gotten  by  de- 
pees. 
£  Cor.  i.io. 


Heb.eJ.n. 
Col.2.7. 

T^j*  benefit  I  of 
full  ajjitrance. 


promifes  of  God ,  temporall  and  fpirituall ,  to  relie  upon 
them;  hee  can  wrcftleearnelHy  in  prayer,  is  not  difcoura- 
ged  if  for  a  time  his  iuite  bee  denied,  will  take  norepulle ; 
is  courageous  in  dangers,  (harpenedby  difficulties,  vval- 
keth  on  conflantly  in  a  godly  courfe  ,  and  holdeth  the  con- 
fident a  (Turance  of  his  ialvation  more  ftrongly,  and  hath 
it  more  ulually  than  the  two  former.  But  yet  hee  hath  not 
learned  in  every  ftate  and  thing fo  to  live  by  faith,  but  that 
hee  is  often  (hakcn  and  troubled  with  his  corruptions,  di- 
ftra6>ed  with  cares ,  and  kept  under  with  other  incum- 
brances more  than  hee  need ,  if  hee  had  attained  to  that 
meafure  of  faith ,  which  in  this  life  many  have  obtained  by 
the  gift  of  God- 
Full  afluranceisi  when  the beleever  hath  obtained /«// 
ajfHrance  ofuy7derfi-a*jding  in  the  my  fiery  efGod,a»d  of  the 
Fat  her  i  and  of  Chrifi '■,  and  afluredly  beleeveth  in  Chrifl 
for  falvation  '•>  and  is  certainly  perfwaded  that  all  other  pro- 
mifes, Ipirituall  and  temporall,doe  belong  unto,and  fhallbe 
made  good  nnto  him  in  due  fealbn ,  though  in  appearance 
all  things  goe  cleane  contrary  :and  readily  followeth  the 
Lords  commandement ,  though  repugnant  to  flefh  and 
bloud>  crofletocarnallreafonjcontrarieto  earthly  pleafijre 
and  contentment.    This  degree  of  faith  is  not  gotten  at 
once,  nor  at  firft  ordinarily,  but  by  degrees,  after  good 
time  and  continuance  in  the  ufe  of  the  meanes,  after  many 
experiences  ofGods  love  and  favour ,  after  manifold  trials 
and  combatesjand  the  long  continued  prafliccofholineflei 
many  never  attaine  unto  it  in  this  life ;  but  it  is  the  duty  of 
every  Chriftian  to  labour  after  good  eftablifliment  and  full 
aflurance  in  the  faith. 

As  faith  is  more  excellent,  fo  arethefruits  that  iflue 
from  it.  The  ftronger  our  faith,  the  more  firmeand  dole  is 
our  union  with  Chrift.  A  weake  beleever  is  as  truly  knit 
to  Chrift  as  the  ftrong,  but  not  (bneerelyandfaft.  The 
increafeoffaith  makes  our  Communion  with  Chrill  more 
fvveet  and  comfortable  than  before.  For  the  more  Ited- 
fafilyweebeleeve,  the  clearer  apprehenfion  have  wee  of 

the 


The  benefits  of  full  affurance. 


v« 


the  remiflfion  of  all  our  fins ;  the  more  vertue  and  ftrength 
draw  wee  from  Chrift  to  kill  and  crucifie  our  corruptions  j 
the  greater  is  our  peace  and  joy  in  the  fenfe  of  Gods  fpe- 
ciiW  favour,  and  the  more  conftantly  injoyed  with  an  in- 
creale  thereof.  FulnelTe  of  faith  breeds  fulnefle  of  peace 
and  joy  which  pafleth  underftanding.  The  firmer  our  faith, 
the  more  free  is  our  accede  with  boldnefle  and  confidence 
to  the  throne  of  grace ,  the  more  fervently  and  confidently 
can  we  pray  y/^^/*,  Father,  the  better  fucceflfedoewefinde 
in  prayer,  and  the  more  quietly  doe  we  waite  till  the  viiion 
come,  for  it  will  come  and  will  not  lie, 

Afliirance  of  faith  doth  enable  with  mere  eaie  to  over- 
come the  world,  to  contemne  the  pleafures  of  finne,   to 
poflefle  the  foule  in  patience  in  hard  and  fore  preflures ,  to 
curbe  unruly  paflions ,  to  tread  Satan  under  ^ztt ,  to  breake 
through  all  worldly  difficulties ,  and  to  runne  with  cheere- 
fulnefl'e  the  race  that  is  fet  before  us.  The  weake  beleever 
creeps  forward  in  the  way  to  Heaven,  but  it  is  with  much 
difficulty ;  Hee  hath  much  adoe  with  himfelfe ,  he  is  per- 
plexed with  feares ,  frightiied  with  troubles ,  dilcouraged 
with  want  of  meanes ;  he  is  wearie,  feeble,  panteth,maketh  ^ 
many  a  ftand,  and  flinpeth  now  and  then.  Tt  is  farre  bet- 
ter with  him ,  who  is  fettled,  ftabliOied  and  rooted  in  the 
knowledge  and  love  of  the  truth,  and  i%  afluredofGods 
mercy;  hathinterertinallthe  promiles  ofgrace,  and  can 
lay  adluall  claime  unto  them.    For  hee  contemneth  the 
temptations  of  multicudesi  cuflomes,  examples;  hedefpi- 
feth  the  offers  ofpiofits, pleafures, honours,  efteemingit 
greater  riches  ts  ffiffer  affiiftion  with  the  people  ofGodj 
than  to  enjoy  thep/eafures  of  fin.  As  for  reproach ,  trouble, 
perfecution,  hellnrinkesnotatthem,  for  his  heart  is  fixed 
and  trufteth  in  the  Lord.    In  dangers  hee  is  confident, 
though  meanes  of  deliverance  appeare  not,becanfe  he  feeth 
Godwhoisinvifible,  and  refteth  upon  his  faithfull  pro- 
mile  that  cannot  deceive.  Hisaffe(f^ionsarefeafoned,his 
heart  is  in  Heaven,  his  love  to  God  is  ftronger  than  death  , 
life  it  (elfe  is  not  deare  unto  him,  that  he  may  finifh  his 

L  %  courfe 


1 49 


Rom.ij'.  ij, 
I  Jt>fjn  1. 4, 
Kom.;.i,j,j, 
HcK  10.  22. 
Matth  t;.28. 

&8.1J. 


Hfb.  I2.». 
Ads  20.  24. 
Pfal27.j. 
Afisy.jp. 


i'lp- 


150 


The firongesi  faith  is  fubje^  to  fundry  infirmities. 


§.IO. 
The ftrangeft  faith 
ufubitifto/itndrjl 
infirmities' 
Job}.  3,8. 
Numb- 20.10, 
11,12. 
I  King  i>».4. 


Gcn.tJ.j. 

Pfil.j.y.with 
31-22. 

I  Sam.  27.  t« 


The  /trtng  ielef 
Ver  doth  fime- 
timesjbrinl^^ 
'"henthe-iDukf 
ftandtfuH- 


courfe  with  joy.  If  at  any  time  hec  tread  awry  through 
over-fight  or  infirmitie ;  the  ftronger  his  is  faith,  the  (bo- 
ner doth  hee  arifeagaine,  renue  ms  repentance, and  em- 
brace the  promifes  of  mercy  afreOi. 

Let  us  thenftriveto  attaine  unto  the  beft  meafiire  of 
faith,  and  to excell  our  felves.  In  earthly  things  men  are 
willing  to bettertheir  condition  :  and  fhall  weebeecare- 
lefle  in  heavenly  things  to  provide  well  for  our  felves?  In 
faire  weather  the  Traveller  will  carrie  his  Cloake,  be- 
caule  the  fcafbn  may  change  before  his  returne.  Aftrong 
faith  is  ever  of  ufe ,  moft  needfull  in  temptations  of  Jong 
continuance  and  grievous  to  be  borne :  and  though  now  we 
live  in  peace,  wee  know  not  how  foone  we  may  be  called 
forth  to  tryall,  what  ferviceweemaybeputunto,  or  how 
the  Lord  will  exercile  us. 

$.  10.  But  here  wee  muft  remember  ^  the  ftrongeft 
faith  hath  infirmities  under  which  it  groaneth ,  and  is 
fubjedlto  temptations  both  on  the  right  hand  and  on  the 
left ,  even  firong  temptations,  whereby  it  is  fliaken  for 
a  time.  Johs  faith  was  fliakcn,  when  heecurfedtheday 
of  his  birth  ;  Mofes  his  faith  quailed  at  the  rocke;  E- 
liah ,  that  famous  beleever ,  who  had  railed  the  dead, 
would  bee  dead  in  a  palfion.  Longdelayes  did  both  trie 
and  fliake  the  faith  of  Abraham.  In  one  and  the  fame 
beleever  faith  is  Ibmetimes  greater  and  fironger ,  another 
time  more  weakeand  infirme:  ftronger  in  a  great  afiault, 
weakerinaleffe.  The  gift  of  faith  is  without  repentance, 
and  being  once  kindly  planted  in  theheart,  there  itremai- 
neth  forever  :but  in  regard  ofgreatnefleormeanefleit  hath 
many  alterations,  increafings  anddecreafings;  yea,  the 
ftrong  beleever  doth  fometimes  fhrinke  and  draw  back  like 
a  coward  in  fmall  temptations,  and  the  weak  doth  quit  him- 
fclfe  valiantly  in  great  tryals. 

The  ftrong  muft  not  be  carelefle ,  as  if  hee  (bould  never 
doubt  againe ,  or  be  brought  into  ftraits :  The  weake  muft 
not  be  difmayed,  as  if  they  fhould  utterly  be  overthrowne  ; 
Both  weake  and  ftrong  muft  looke  for  tryals ,  and  bee  care- 
full- 


Motives  and  encouragements  to  belceve. 


■%S'\ 


\ 


1)1 


full  to  prefervc  and  grow  in  faith.  For  the  ftate  of  grace 
in  this  Yy'i^  i%  fuch  as  hath  Itill  reliques  of  finne  dwel- 
ling with  it,  and  the  Deviil  and  the  world  ftili  Jay 
fiege  againft  the  caftle  of  our  faith  to  batter  it ,  and 
prevaile  much  when  they  finde  us  lecure  and  carelefle,  but 
are  prevented  by  diligence  and  watchfulncflc ,  the  Lord 
adirting. 


CHAP.  XI. 

Of  the  right  fUntatien  of  faith ,  audmcAMes 
nvherebj  tt  it  confirmed. 

§.  I .   TpHc  neceflary  ufe ,  and  excellent  fruits  of  faith, 
X  fliould  incite  men,  if  they  want ,  to  feekeit 
with  all  diligence  I  and  if  they  bee  partakers  of  that  hea- 
venly gift,  to  hold  and  keepe  it,  to incrcafc and  grow 
therein.   And  this  the  rather,  becaufe  we  have  many  en- 
couragements to  beleeve,  God  doth  befeech  men  to  be  re- 
conciled unto  him:  Should  not  this  wonderfuU  clemency 
of  God  encourage  us  with  boldnefle  and  confidence  to 
come  unto  him?  Chrift  himfelfe  doth  gracioufly  invite 
all  that  be  poore,  needy,  weary,andheavie  laden  to  come 
unto  him  :  and  the  Lord  maketh  a  general!  proclamation 
of  liberty  to  a  11  diftrefled  Ibules  that  will  come  and  receive 
it ,  without  exception  of  any  in  particular :  which  {hould 
the  rather  affeft ,  if  wee  confider  who  it  is  that  proclai- 
meth,  inviteth,  befeecheth,  namely ,  God,  who  is  able  to 
helpe ,  and  ready  to  forgive  and  fuccour.   If  a  covetous 
man  (hould  offer  us  any  great  kindnefle ,  wee  might  doubt 
of  performance ,  becaufe  it  is  contrary  to  his  nature :  but  it 
is  not  lb  with  our  God ;  his  name  is  gracious  ,  and  his 
nature  is  to  bee  faithfull  in  performance,  and  true  in  offer 
andpromifing.  In  the  covenant,  that  God  of  his  rich  grace 
and  mercy  hath  made  with  his  Church  and  people,  fealed 
with  Sacraments  ,  and  confirmed  by  oath ,  remiflion  of 
^____ L  4  fins 


Motivtf  and  ft' 

cturagtmtnts  to 
btltev*. 

2  Cor.  5.30. 


ira755T. 

Macth.ii.i9, 


Deut.7.9. 


Jcr.3t.j4. 
Hebioif. 
Pfai. 52.10 


I 


tff- 

152 

Efay  55-7' 

Ez-k    18.  21' 

&35.n. 
Mai.  J.  f. 
Efay  1.  18. 
Tit.  J.  14. 
I  ]oh.t.7. 
Mar.K!  1^' 
]oh.  }15>I^• 
&6.34.,40. 
Afts  10.43. 
Matth.i-ir. 

Luke  ly.iO' 


i>h.3-2j,24- 


aTim.i.«2. 


Heb.7.  jy. 

2  Cor. 5.1'. 


i 


Motives  and  encouragements  to  belceve. 

finnes  fecret  and  open,  great  and  fmall,  of  what  quality 
foever ,  is  promifed  and  aflbred  to  them  that  repent  and 
beleeve.  And  when  life  and  falvauon  is  promifed  to  them 
that  will  receive  it  by  faith  j  no  man  is  excluded  from 
that  mercie ,  but  hee  that  fhuts  forth  himfeUe  by  Infi- 
delity. 

Wee  have  a  Saviour ,  who  came  into  the  world  to  fave 
finners,  and  is  able  to  deliver  us  out  ofthe  hands  of  all  our 
enemies  >  his  redemption  beingbothprecious  and  plenti- 
ful!. And  therefore,  though  the  multitude  and  grievouf- 
nefle  of  our  finnes  ftiould  cncreafe  our  repentance,  yet  they 
n-.ould  not  diminifh  our  faith,  and  diligence  in  feeking 
afluranceoflorgiveneflc.  For  though  our  debt  was  never 
fo  great ,  our  furety  Chrift  ]efus  hath  paid  it  to  the  utmoft 
farihing. 

The  Lord  who  isbeft  acquainted  with  his owne love, 
mercy,  and  compaffion,  and  knoweth  what  ispleafingand 
acceptable  unto  him ,  hath  ftraightly  charged  and  com- 
manded us  to  beleeve  in  him,  and beleeving will beftow 
upon  us  eternall  life  according  to  promife.  And  can  there 
be  any  fraud  in  Gods  Word?  or  danger  in  yeelding  obe- 
dience to  his  Commandement?  What  need  weefeareto 
commit  our  fbules  to  him ,  who  is  able  to  keepe  them,  and 
hath  bound  himfelfe  to  fave  them ,  if  wee  relie  upon 
him? 

Our  Faith  is  direfled  to  God  in  and  through  Jefus  Chrift 
cur  neere  kinfman,  who  hath  taken  our  nature,  and  is  be- 
come flefh  of  our  flefh.  Though  we  feared  fome  great  man, 
yet  were  hee  marri  ed  to  our  houfe,  very  neere  us ,  this  cir- 
cumftance  would  animate  us  not  a  little:  the  fame  fhould 
wee  thinke  of  our  God,  married  as  aforefaidtoourflefii. 
Chrift  our  Saviour  and  high  Prieft  ever  liveth ,  to  ap- 
peare  in  heaven  before  his  Father ,  and  to  make  intercejfi- 
onfor  us.  The  Vather^  roho  hath  committed,  all  judgement 
f<?r^£'^<7;^;7«',  hath  given  unto  him  power  to  remit  and  par- 
don finne ;  and  hee  as  our  furetie ,  having  all  our  debt  laid 
upon  him,  hath  by  one  oblation  ofhimfelfe  once  offered, 

pur- 


M  earns  for  the  right  flatting  of  faith. 


.t^.» 


15^3 


purchafed  for  us  eternall  redemption ;  and  hy  vertue  of 
his  obedience  hath  i-eceived  for  us  j  .whatfoevenhfidiftribii-, 
tethuntous.  _  :.iO  D.d  vnr. II    .^^.m^I 

By  beleevingwee  glorifie  God  both'in  Ms  truth, power , 
wiledome,  love,  grace  and  mercy,  whom  before  wee  di- 
fhonoured  by  our  finnes.  For  the  grace  of  God  is  manife- 
fted  by  faith  in  Jefus  Chrift,  in  the  declaration  and  ac- 
knowledgment whereof  ftandeth  the  chiefe  praife  and 
glory  of  the  Lord,  as  the  laft  endofallhisworkes.  Mer- 
cy and  compafTion  in  man  is  but  as  the  drop  of  a  bucket  in 
comparifon  of  that  huge  Ocean  of  grace  that  is  to  be  found 
in  our  God  >  But  God  requires  that  wee  fhould  forgive 
our  brother  feventie  times  leven  times,  ifhe  did  repent  a f- 
terhee  had  trefpafTed  againrt  us  i  and  will  not  cur  God , 
who  exa6l-eth  luch  compaflTion  in  us ,  be  much  more  ready 
to  extend  mercy  unto  us,  if  we  fue  unto  him?  Thereis  no 
difficultiefogreat,eitherinre(peifl:of  fin,  or  of  the  meanes, 
&c.  but  it  hath  been  overcome  by  every  one  of  the  Saints ; 
which  is  our  encouragement  to  Iceke  faith,thac  we  might  be 
healed. 

$.  2 .  Now  the  knowledge  of  God  and  Ghrift  fuppofed, 
without  which  there  can  bee  no  faith,  the  meanes  foe  the 
right  plantingoffaith be  thefe.  .         r   ■ !;  •'   ;  ^  ■-:';• 

Firft,(erious  meditation. of  our  milcrab-leeftatebyna-^ 
ture,  the  multitude  and  hainOufnefleof  our  finnes,  and  how 
deepe  ftains  finne  hath  made  in  the  (bule.  -The  Phy- 
fitian  is  welcome  to  the  hcke  patient  :  the  guilty  perlon 
efteemes  his  pardon.  Hunger  caiilecfa  men  to  tafte  their 
meat  rand  mercy  is  pleafant  to  hini  that  knowes  his  need 
of  mercy. 

Secondly,  learne  and  confider  what  promifes be  made 
in  the  Gofpel,  and  to  whom  Chi'ifl:  ofiFereth  himfelfe,*  { 
even  to  the  thirlHe,  wearie,  laden,  andbunhened;  to  j 
them  that  be  flung  in  confcience ,  parched  with  finne,  that 
have  neither  fap  nor  fruit  of  grace.  To  them  Chrift  of- 
fereth  himfelfe,  and  becomes  a  fuiter  ,  that  if  they  will 
come  unto  him ,  hewilleafe  andrefrelh,  enrich  and  com- 
fort 


Rom  4.10, 


Rom.  3  24,18. 


Mat.iS.ii,i2. 


§1. 

Meanes  for  the 
right  p laming  of 
faith. 

I. 


Matth.p.ii.Tj. 


/-  Ih 


154 


Ifiy  55.1-t, 


Joh-7-  37* 
Num.21. ?• 
Job.  J.14- 
Matth.ii.a?. 


.£T^I,^Jrr 


Meanesfor  the  right  planting  oj faith. 


fort  them.  }Jo  every  one  that  thirfleth,  comeyee  to  the  rva- 
ters.  Let  every  one  that  is  athirft,  come  unto  mee ,  anA 
drinke.  If  any  bee  oppreffed  with  the  weight  of  finne , 
him  doth  the  Lord  intreat  and  perfwade  to  come  for  eafe : 
If  any  bee  confounded  in  confcience  of  his  owne  wretched- 
nefle  and  finne  ,  to  him  the  Lord  calleth  in  the  Gofpcl , 
Come ,  and  let  thy  foule  delight  in  fatnefle.  Men  of 
this  world  labour  to  match  with  fuch  in  marriage,  as  bee 
rich  and  vertuous :  but  Chrilt  doth  profer  love  to  fuch  as 
bee  poore,  that  hee  might  make  them  rich ;  filty,  that  hee 
might  make  them  beautiful!;  in  diflreffc,  that  hee  might 
comfort  them ;  bafc ,  that  hee  might  make  ihem  honou- 
rable ;  guilty,  that  he  might  acquit  them ;  naked  1  that  hee 
might  cloath  them. 

Thirdly,  ponder  and  weigh  who  it  is  that  maketh  this 
liberall  and  free  promife ,  even  God  himfelfe,  who  is  able, 
and  willing ,  and  faithfull  to  performe  what  hee  promifcth 
of  his  rich  grace  and  unfpeakable  mercy.    All  thefe  are 
clearc  and  manifeft  for  the  truth  of  them,  but  we  have 
need  oft  to  fet  them  before  us  for  our  ufe,  to  encourage  us 
the  more  boldly  and  fincerely  to  relie  upon  Chrift.   To 
this  end  fpecially  are  thefe  teftimonies  of  Gods  power , 
mercy ,  and  truth  fo  often  repeated  in  the  Scripture«,that 
we  might  have  them  ever  before  us ,  to  uphold  us  againft 
our  donbtings  andfeares,  wficreofour  nature  is  full.  The 
■things  promifed  in  the  Gofpel  are  unlikely  in  rcafon ,  op- 
pofitctofenleand  feeling,  too  great  and  excel  lent,  as  Sa- 
tan and  our  diftruftfiill  hearts  will  iuggeft,  to  bee  conferred 
upon  filch  vile  and  filthy  creatures  as  we  be,  who  have  fo 
many  waies  didionoured  God ,  and  have  fuch  a  bade  of  fin 
lying  ftill  upon  MS ;  For  the  overcomming  of  which  temp- 
tation ,  wee  muft  looke  up  to  him  that  hath  made  the  pro- 
mife; his  grace,  faithfulnefle,  and  power ;  and  keep  them 
in  our  eye  continually  ,  rowfing  up  our  fbules  to  belceve 
againft  fcnfc  and  feeling,  reafon  and  likelihood,  becaufe 
God  is  faithfull,and  cannot  denie  himfelfe ;  gracious ,  and 
will  not  caft  us  offfbrourunworthinefle;  great  in  might, 

able 


Meanesfor  the  right  obtaimng  of  faith. 


155 


r 


able  to  doe  whatfoever  he  will »  and  willing  to  performc 
with  his  hand,  whatfoever  commeth  out  of  his  mouth.  Wee 
muftfay  toourfoules*  The  Lord  ofhisgrace  invites  thee 
poore,  needie,  milerable,  lelfe-condemned  wretch  to  come 
unto  Jefus  Chrift ,  and  of  the  fame  grace  hath  promifed  to 
accepttheeifthoudoecome,  tohealc  thy  foares,  to  for- 
give thy  finncs ;  come  therefore, behold,  heecalleth  thce: 
reafon  may  be  deluded*  fenfe  is  deceitfull,  but  the  Wotd 
ofthe  Lord  endureth  for  ever  :  Thou  haft  his  faithfull  pro- 
mife  for  thy  fecurity,  dilpute  no  more,  but  draw  neere  with 
confidence. 

Fourthly  J  it  is  very  needful!  againc  and  againe  to  con- 
fider  what  excellent  things  are  promifed,  andforaifethe 
heart  to  an  high  prizing  and  valuation  of  them.  The  wife 
Merchant  doth  not  buy  the  pearle,  till  he  know  it  to  bee 
of  excellent  price,  or  better  than  any  price-  Great  things 
are  eagerly  (ought  upon  probable  hopes  :Themeere  pot^ 
fibility  of  obtaining  Ibme  great  and  extraordinary  good, 
is  ofmarvellous  force  in  fwaying  mensavSlions.  And  if  men 
confiderferiouflywhatrare,  furpafling,  fH:ecious  things  be 
promifed  to  them  that  come  unto  Jefus  Chriflf,  and  reft 
upon  him ,  what  fhall  withhold  them  from  beleeving  ? 
Were  wee  certainly  perfvvaded,  that  everlafting  life,  full 
laden  with  all  the  fruits oftrue  life, joy,and  peace,  and  all 
choiceft  pleafures,  without  any  annoyance,  fhould  bee  con- 
ferred upon  them  that  beleeve  in  Jefus  Chrift,  would  wee 
not  hang  clofe,and  fticke  faft,and  not  fufter  theplealures  or 
profits  of  this  tranfitory  life  to  divide  us  from  him  ?  The 
reafon  why  we  ftrive  fo  flackly  to  beleeve,  and  be  fo  dull  in 
Gods  lervice,and  faint  in  trouble,  is,  becaufe  our  hearts  be 
not  holden  with  the  ierious  confidcration  of  that  king- 
dome,  joy,  and  glory,  which  God  hath  prepared  for  them 
that  beleeve,  and  cleave  unto  him. 

Fiftly,  ir  is  alio  needfull  to  denie  onr  felves,  our  defires, 
lufts,  and  afFeilions  ;  to  make  overallourintereftinour 
lives  3  or  whatfoever  is  deare  unto  us  j  and  to  inure  our 
hearts  calmely  to  endure  the  hate  and  oppofition,  though 

of 


Macth.13.44. 


til- 


156 


Lukei4'5S- 


Mat.JJ.44,4J- 


M  earns  for  the  right  flanting  of  faith. 


Matth  1^.24. 
Matio37,J?. 


Luke  14.15. 


^ 


of  deareft  friendsjand  the  reproaches  and  revilings  of  men, 
though  abje6l  and  vile.  This  our  Saviour  layes  down  as  a 
fundamental!  principle,  If  any  man  will  come  after  me^  let 
him  denie  himfelfe^  and,  take  up  his  cr  of e, and  follow  me.  He 
that  loveth  Father  or  Mother  more  than  me  ^  ps  fiotwsr- 
thy  ofme  :  andhethatloveth  Son  or  Daughter  more  than 
mCi  14  not  worthy  of  me.  ^nd  hee  that  taketh  not  his  croffe^ 
andfolloweth  after  me^  is  not  worthy  of  me.  The  neceflity  of 
this  relblution  hee  more  fully  fets  out  unto  us  in  two  para- 
bles ;  of  a  builder  that  muR  bee  able  to  count  his  coft  and 
charges,  and  meanes  to  defray  them,  before  he  take  that 
workeinhand  ;  otherwileto  begin  to  build,  being  unable 
to  make  an  end ,  were  to  lay  the  foundation  of  his  di%racc 
in  the  lofle  of  his  coft  and  paines  :  And  a  Prince,  who  be- 
fore he  undertake  warre ,  muft  bavefuretriallofhisowne 
ability  and  skill  to  difcover  his  enemies  ftrength  \  other- 
wife  to  bid  him  battell,  were  rafhly  to  provoke  anene- 
mie  to  his  owne  lofle  and  danger.    The  conclufion  of 
thefe  inductions  isthis ,  SoUkewife,  whofoeverhee  hee  of 
yoti ,  thatforfaketh  not  all  that  he  hath,  hee  cannot  hee  my 
Difciple. 

The  Merchant  that  would  purchafe  the  pearle  of  price, 
muft  fell  all  that  he  hath  to  buy  it ;  He  muft  fell  his  finnes, 
(which  is  properly  all  we  have  of  our  owne )  and  renounce 
his  intereft  in  the  world ,  and  whatfoever  naturall  content- 
ment hee  might  promife  himfelfe  in  the  things  of  this 
world-  The  meaning  is  not,  that  rich  men  muft  forgoe 
their  wealth,  and  betake  themfelves  to  voluntary  poverty ; 
for  riches  well  ufedbee  great  inftruments  of  doing  good  : 
But  they  muft  caft  the  world  out  of  their  affections ,  and 
make  over  their  intereft  in  v\hacfoever  is  moftdeareunto 
them :  they  muft  prefer  the  kingdome  of  Heaven  before  the 
whole  world ,  and  therefore  renounce  both  themfelves , 
and  all  the  defires  of  the  flefti,  that  nothing  may  hinder  the 
enjoying  of  (brich  a  treafure. 

Chrift  doth  make  love  unto  us,  and  by  many  faire, 
iweet  and  precious  promiles  doth  allure  and  intice  us  to 

em- 


Meanesfor  the  right  planting  offiiith. 


■  ■'.  -t 


157 


embrace  him;  but  will  bee  received  by  way  ofMatrimo- 
niall covenant;  we  murt  for(ake  ail  bale  and  carnall  de- 
lights ,  caft  out  of  the  heart  vvhatfoever  we  formerly  ac- 
counted precious  in  the  world ,  cleave  unto  him  onely , 
and  be  contented  with  thole  Ipirituall  good  things ,  which 
hepromifethuntous.  Chrift  hath  never  due  efteemcwith 
us,  unlefle  for  his  fake  wee  withdraw  our  hearts  from  all 
the  riches,  delights,  honours,  and  profits  of  the  world  , 
and  denie  our  (elves,  that  in  all  things  wee  might  be  con- 
formable unto  his  will  and  pkafure.    What  are  we  better 
than  harlots,  fo  long  as  the  world,  or  the  delights  thereof, 
lufts ,  or  paifions  polfelTe  the  heart ,  and  divide  it  from 
Chrift  ? 

Roots,  though  of  treesjcan  goe  no  deeper  than  the  rocke 
orftone  :  nor  can  the  Word  of  life  finke  deeper  into  the 
heart ,  than  unto  the  roots  of  his  naturall  defires  or  affe6ti- 
ons :  which  unrenounced ,  hinder  the  right  taking  and 
kindly  Ipteadingofit.  The  cares  of  this  world  and  volup- 
tuous living  choake  the  feed  of  the  world,  after  it  hath  ta- 
ken fome  rooting,  that  it  brings  forth  no  fruit  unto  ripe- 
nefle.    Therefore  that  the  word  of  the  kingdome  may 
take  kindly,  and  fru6tifie  in  us ,  we  muftcaftup  our  ac- 
counts before  hand,  what  we  can  be  content  to  forgoe  for 
Chrifts  fake,  and  renounce  the  pleafures  and  delights  of 
the  World,  giving  up  our felvesintirely  to  Jefus Chrift , 
in  all  things  to  bee  direi^ed  and  guided  by  him,  inuring 
our  felves  quietly  to  beare  reproach ,  difgrace  and  con- 
tempt for  his  fake,  and  watching  heedfully  in  profperitie, 
that  the  world  creepe  not  into  our  affeflion,  and  privily 
fteale  away  our  hearts  from  him. 

And  this  wee  fliall  doe  the  more  freely ,  ifwce  atten- 
tively confider  what  excellent  and  incomparable  trea- 1 
fures  of  delight ,  joy ,  and  comfort  are  to  be  found  in  Je-  ' 
fus  Chrift.  over  and  above  all  the  world  can  promife  or  j 
afford.  Should  a  good  husband  bet  ofiFered  (bme  goodly  i 
royaltie ,  upon  condition  hee  would  forlake  his  bafetene-  I 
mentor  hard  rented  leafe  J  when  once  hee  perceived  the  1 
profit  I 


Luke  8.14. 


Ill 


158 


Phil.  J.J. 


Faith  o/tce  ebtai- 
Hed  u  ferioufy  t» 
be  regarded. 
Luke22'Ji> 


Faith  once  obtained  isferioufly  to  be  regarded. 


profit  of  the  exchange ,  you  need  not  ufe  arguments  to 
perfwade  him.  Should  fome  great  Noble-man  make  fuite 
of  love  toameane  perfonagC)  upon  condition  fhee  would 
forfake  her  bafe  drudgerie  for  the  honours  and  delights  of 
a  palace,  the  motion  would  bee  accepted.  And  if  wee  feri- 
oufly  weigh  ,  that  the  Lord  Jefus  calleth  us  to  forfake  the 
fledi-pors  of  Egypt,  and  alienate  our  intereft:  in  the  world, 
and  the  flefli,  with  all  their  appurtenances ,  that  we  might 
bee  enriched  with  heavenly,  ever-enduring pleafures ,  in 
comparifonwhereofall  earthly  contentments  are  but  dung 
and  dogf-meat ;  that  hee  invites  us  to  caft  away  our  har- 
lotry delights,  that  hee  might  marrie  us  unto  himfelfe,  and 
intitle  us  unto  his  everlalting  kingdomej  it  will  not  bee 
grievous  to  make  this  exchange. 

But  here  it  muft  be  remembred,  that  it  is  not  the  pofTef- 
fion  of  earthly  things,  or  delight  in  them ,  that  is  forbid- 
den, but  that  poffefiion  and  delight  in  them,  which  with- 
holdethusfromrefigningour  felves  unto  Chrift, 'and  fee- 
king  after  the  promifed  land  with  all  the  heart  and  all  the 
foule.  It  is  not  the  aftuall  abandoning  of  riches,  honour , 
or  other  contentments  of  this  life,  which  our  Sauiour  re- 
quires :but  the  difpoflefllng  of  theheartotfuch  bafe  de- 
lights 3  that  the  whole  heart  may  bee  (et  upon  heavenly 
things,  and  not  with-drawne  oy  lecret  refervation  of 
Ijjeciall  defircs  for  other  purpofes.     And   being   thus 
difpofed ,  wee  receive  Chrift  with  wel-rooted  affiance, 
and  cleave  to  the  mercy  of  God ,  as  much  better  than  life 
it  (clfe. 

§.  5,  Faith  kindly  planted  muft  be  regarded  ferioufly  , 
and  carefully  confirmed.  For  Satan  ufeth  all  meancs  to 
weaken  faith ,  yea ,  quite  to  fubvert  and  overthrow  it.  If 
an  houfe  begin  to  fbrinke  or  reele  of  one  fide,  will  wee 
not  put  under  fome  (Kore  to  prop  it  up?  Or  if  any  man 
queftion  the  Title  of  Land  wee  have  purchafed,  will  wee 
not  fearch  Records ,  and  ufe  meanes  to  ftrengthen  it  ?  The 
malice  of  Satan  in  feeking  by  all  meanes  to  batter  downe 
onrfaith,isfufficicntto{hewthe  cxcellencie  thereof,  and 

to 


FAtth  once  obtained  u  fertoufly  to  be  regarded. 


I5P 


to  awaken  us  to  a  concinuall  careful!  regard  to  preferve 
ander^crealcit. 

In  this  life  wee  are  rubje(5l  to  many  trials,  that  require 
ftrengthoffaithtoundergoethcm.  The  world,  by  rea/bn 
of  our  continuall  imployment  in  itjis  apt  tocreepe  into  the 
heart,  and  infenfibly  to  ftcale  the  afte*5^ions  tromthe  ea- 
ger puriuiceof  heavenly  things ;  which  calleth  upon  us  for 
more  than  ordinary  care  to  increafe  our  defires  of  grace , 
and  moderate  them  in  tranfitory  things.  Hee  who  will 
have  a  plane  to  thrive  in  a  ground  drie,  barren,and  unkindly 
foritj  muft  ftrive  much,  becaufe  his  (byle  will  not  doe  fur- 
ther than  it  is  forced;  fo  hee  that  will  make  fire  burne  in 
greene  moift  wood ,  muft  follow  it  with  blowing  :  thus 
to  get  faith  to  thrive  in  our  natures,  which  are  as  apt  to 
the  jveedes  of  diffidence  and  vice. ,  as  averfe  from  faith  and 
every  true  vertue,  wee  muft  ftrive  with  them,  and  offer 
violence  unto  them.  He  who  doth  row  againft  the  ikeame, 
muft  plie  his  Oare,  or  hee  will  goe  dovvne  apace ;  lb  it  is 
here ,  we  goe  againft  the  ftreame  of  corrupt  nature,  fofarrc 
as  we  goe  in  faith  or  grace. 

Our  daily  and  continuall  weakneffe  of  faith,  which  wee 
finde  in  affenting  unto  and  receiving  moftob;e(5h  of  faith 
and  promifes  of  God »  when  it  is  encountred  with  tempta- 
tions :  Our  ordinary  failings  in  the  prat5^iceofholy  duties, 
and  due  ordering  of  our  affeilions ,  which  cannot  be  with- 
out a  precedent  dt(t6\.  of  that  faith ,  which  only  can  firmly 
unite  us  unto  Chrift ;  doth  fufficiencly  manifeft,  how  feeble 
our  bcleefc  is  in  the  fpeciall  mercies  of  God  towards  us  in 
Jefus Chrift,  which beino the higheft  objeft  isthehardeft 
to  bee  apprehended,  andean  never  be  feparated  from  firme 
aflent  unto  every  precept  ofGod,  as  much  better  than  any 
incompatible  good.  And  if  men  take  food  and  phyficketo 
rtrengthentheirbodics,  becaufe  they  are  frailermuft  wee 
not  labour  to  confirme  our  weakc  and  feeble  faith  ? 

The  labour  beftowed  about  this  moftgainfull  and  beau- 
tiful! grace,  is  fo  farrc  from  tedious  toilc ,  that  it  is  the  fo- 
lace  of  aChriftian  heart,  and  the  pleafure  thereof  more 

fweet 


I  Thcf-j 


i6o 


V 


Meanes  whereby  Fatth  is  firengthened. 


~  ri 


fweet  than  any  pleafure  that  can  bee  taken  in  all  thepa- 
ftimesuf  the  World.  For  by  that  meanes  wee  grow  more 
and  more  familiarly  and  better  acquainted  with  the  minde 
and  purpofe  of  God  towards  us,  we  enjoy  fweet  communion 
and  fellowfhip  with  him ,  wee  are  made  ready  for  our 
latter  end  at  one  time  as  well  as  another ,  and  are  ar- 
med to  goe  well  and  cheerfiilly  through  with  the aflfaires 
of  the  day,  beleeving  that  God  will  guide  andblefleus. 
And  of  this  alio  wee  maybe  well  aflured ,  that  according  to 
our  ftrength  of  faith ,  the  lively  fruits  of  holy  obedience 
(hall  bee  found  in  us ;  and  as  our  faith  groweth ,  fodoth 
found  peace,  joy,  and  fafetie )  ftrength  againft  corruption , 
ability  to  reiift  temptations,  poverty  ofipirit,  meeknefle, 
purity,  hunger  and  tbirft  after  righteoufneffe,  mercifulneflfe 
and  pleafiire  in  the  meanes  whereby  faith  is  prelerved ,  anH 
confirmedjincreafe,  and  that  from  time  to  time,  more  and 


more. 


JAcaHe$  •lihertby 
faith  ifftrenj^the- 
ned  and  can  fir- 
mtd. 


But  as  for  fuch  as  will  not  fettle  themfelves  to  nouriOi 
their  faith  with  care  and  diligence ,  they  deprive  them- 
felves of  much  inward  peace,  which  they  might  enjoy  ,  and 
make  their  lives  uncomfortable  to  themfelves,  unprofita- 
ble to  others.  They  lay  themfelves  open  to  many  offen- 
ces ,  which  by  this  exercifc  they  might  prevent ;  arid  they 
goe  on ,  either  in  tinfavourie  lightnefle  and  carnall  joy, 
which  doth  deceive  them ,  or  elfe  in  unprofitable  care 
and  worldly  Ibrrow ,  which  will  dijquiet  them.  And  when 
they  negled^he  fafhioning  of  Chrift  in  their  hearts ,  and 
fo  truly  to  put  him  on  in  their  daily  converlat  ion,  they  be- 
come unprofitable  in  their  lives ,   offenfive  in  their  car- 
riage ;  and  the  Devill  weakeneth  and  holdeth  backe  fun- 
drie  (which were comming on)  by  their  example,  think- 
ing themfelves  well  in  the  cafe  they  are  in,  rather  than 
they  fhould  bee  in  following  them,  unlefle  theyfawlbme 
beai.ty  and  excellencie  in  their  lives,  more  than  in  them- 
felves. 

§.4.The  means  whereby  faith  is  confirmed  and  ftrengthe- 
ned  ace  thefe,  and  fuch  like : 

Firl>, 


M canes  rv hereby  Faith  tsfirengthened. 


i6i 


Firft,daiIyco  account  it  our  beft  portion,  richcftjew- 
ell  9  moft  pretious  trcafure,  and  chicfcft  happineffein  this 
life :  which  if  wee  doe ,  our  hearts  will  be  ever  upon  it ,  our 
feare  will  be  ufually  left  wee  fhould  lofe  it ,  and  wee  fhall 
thinkeit  moft  neceflfary  to  regard  and  looke  unto  it,  what- 
(bever  wee  have  befides  it  worth  the  looking  after.  And 
otherwile  every  fmall  occafion  will  hinder  us ,  every  fond 
delight  carry  us  away  9 '  and  every  trifle  take  up  the  heart, 
much  more  our  earneft  and  weighty  affaires  and  bufi- 
neffe ,  to  which  moft  men  thinke  that  all  exerciles  of  Re- 
ligion ought  to  give  place.  Things  of  worth  aredif-eftee- 
med  if  their  value  bee  not  knowne ,  and  trifles  are  looked 
after  when  they  bee  over-valued.  A  true  efteeme  of  the 
price,  excellencie,and  ufe  of  faith ,  the  profit  and  comfort 
of  it,  willraifean  earneft  continuall  carctoprelcrveand 
keep  it. 

Secondly ,  wee  muft  labour  daily ,  not  onely  to  loath 
thofe  things  which  are  evill  in  themfelvesf,  but  alio  to  bee 
very  fober  and  moderate  in  our  lawfiill  labours  and  de- 
lights, defires,  and  afFe<flions  to  things  tranfitorie,remem- 
bring  what  our  Saviour  Chrift  faith ,  One  thing  is  neceffa-   LuS;.x04*. 
r/f ;  otherwife  Sathan,  who  can  change  himfelfe  into  an 
Angel  of  Light  ,  will  fill  our  hearts  and  heads  with 
fvvarmesof  cvililufts,  noyibme  delights,  cares  and  ^i- 
ftra6lions,  which  will  draw  our  mindes  from  that  which 
they  ought  moft  to  minde  and  thinke  upon.  Wee  muft  bee 
heedfiill  in  this ,  not  onely  that  the  world  draw  us  not  to 
encreale  our  wealth  by  wicked  or  unjuft  meanes  ,•  but  that 
it  creepe  not  infenfibly  into  our  afteilions ,  and  lb  by  de- 
grees not  obferved ,  breed  great  diftempers  in  the  feule. 
Feare  of  want,  joy  and  delight  in  what  vveejuftlyand  ho- 
neftlypofiefle,  climbinginto  the  heart,  and  by  little  and 
little  getting  head,  doe  fiicke  away  that  vertue ,  whereby 
the  word  fowne  fliould  receive  ftrength  and  increale  ,  and 
alienate  part  of  the  foule  from  God.  Herein  therefore  we 
muft  bee  circumlpe£t,  gaging  our  hearts  and  trying  them  to 
the  bottome ,  weaning  our  (elves  from  thefe  delights,  rai- 

M  fing 


/ 


/■II. 


162 


I  Cor.  I  J.  5?. 


Exod.  34.tf. 
Joh.y.}?. 
Hof  14.2,  5. 
I  John  5.14. 
Prov.t?.  13. 
Ephcfj.4. 


Hemes  whereby  Faith  is  strengthened. 


fing  our  foules  ro  more  fpirituall  and  heavenly  joyes,  and 
labouring  that  onr  defire  of  grace  and  care  to  ex ercife  our 
felves  in  all  good  workes  doe  grow,  as  the  world  comes  in 
upon  us. 

Thirdly ,  Walking  according  to  the  rules  of  faith  in 
humblenefle  of  minde ,  meekneffe ,  purity,  mercy,  long- 
iliftering,and  in  all  good  workes ,  improving  what  we  have 
received  to  the  ^lory  ofGod,  is  a  notable  meanes  to  con- 
firmeand  ftrengchen  faith.  Faith  brings  forth  good  workes, 
and  goods  workes  increafe  faith.  Faith  hath  his  fruit  crea- 
ted in  it  :but  the' better  fruit  it  bringeth  forth,  the  fafter 
itgroweth.  Faith  is  a  fruitfull  Mother  that  gives  Xi^t  to 
holineffe  :  and  good  works  j  as  akind  Daughter ,  helpe  to 
lupport  and  fuftainc  the  Mother.  Be  jeefiedftifi^unmovc- 
abl€,alwaies  aboundmg  in  the  work?  of  the  L  ord. 

Fourthly  ,  Adaily  veiwingof  our  finnes,  which  by  ex- 
amination we  have  found  out ,  is  availeable  hereunto :  that 
being  humbled  tculyj  and  brought  to  account  bafely  of  our 
felves>weemaybekept  fromfulncfle  and  lothing  of  that 
death  of  Chrift,  the  fweetneflewhereofwe  cannot  tafte  or 
rellifhas  we  (houldi  exceptwefeekthetartnelTeandbit- 
terncfle  of  our  finnes. 

Afift  meanes  is  daily  and  oft  to /endup  ftrong  prayers 
to  God  for  it ,  and  purpofely  to  feparate  our  Colvts  from  all 
other  things  in  the  moft  convenient  manner  that  wee  can , 
to  thinke  deepely  of  his  unfpeakable  goodnefle,  mercy, 
ttuth ,  fatherly  affedion,  and  tender  compafTion  in  Jeliis 
Chrift;  remembring  withall  what  manifold,  fweet  and 
gracious  promifes  hee  hath  madeuntousintheOofpelof 
his  Sonncwhereby  wee  come  to  have  more  neere  acquain- 
tance with  Gods  nature ,  his  minde,  and  purpofc  towards 
us.  And  if  wee  beleevc  an honeft  man  fb  much  the  more, 
becaufe  he  often  goeth  over  it,  when  he  affirmeth  this  or 
that  unto  us  :  the  ferious  meditation  of  Gods  promifes 
reiterated  againe  and  againe,  muft  bee  availeable  to 
flrengthen  faith,  and  fa(hion  the  Image  of  God  in  us  more 
and  more. 

Sixtly, 


•MM 


Meanes  rvherehy  Faith  tsjlrengthened. 


I6J 


Sixtly ,  To  chele  muft  bee  joyned  ordinary  and  reverent 
hearing  of  the  glad  tydings  of lalvation,  which  h  the  kty 
whereby  God  doth  open  and  toften  our  iron  hearts;  and 
an  holy  ule  of  the  Sacraments ,  whereby  this  heavenly 
truth,  which  we  have  already  received,  is  yet  fiirtherfea- 
led  up  toourconfcienccs.  Thefe  ordinances  we  muft  fre- 
quent with  anappetite.  Sound  and  healthfull  bodies  re- 
ceive nourifhment  from  their  food,and  ftick  vigour  out  of 
it  for  growth  and  ftrength  :  Lively  faith  feedeth  on  the 
Word  of  \i£Q. ,  andincreafeth.  Though  the  Word  be  im- 
mortallleed,  which  corruptible  food  is  not,  yet  in  this 
they  arc  like,  that  looke  as  bodily  food  dotnnotputto 
the  body  all  that  fubftantiall  ftrength  and  latitude  which 
belongethtoit ;  fo  the  food  of  the  Word  doth  not  atone 
time  augment  the  foule  with  all  length  and  depth  of 
knowledge,  faith,  hope,  love,  juftice,  temperance, 
which  it  is  to  bee  brought  unto.  In  which  regard,  as  li- 
ving bodies  need  daily  food,  that  they  might  grow  unto 
perfe(5lion  of  nature ;  fb  foules  having  grace,  have  need  to 
goe  over  with  the  ufe  of  the  meanes,  as  well  as  others  5 
that  the  divine  nature  may  bee  more  and  more  enlarged , 
getting  up  as  the  light  of chc  Sun  doth  in  the  aire  which  it 
inlightneth. 

Seventhly,  It  is  good  to  call  to  minde  the  experience 
of  the  faith  and  joy  which  wee  have  had  at  any  time  be- 
fore; remembring  that  former  comforts  are  as  a  bill  obli- 
gatorie  under  Gods  hand  to  aflfure  that  he  will  not  for- 
fake  us.  For  whom  God  loveth ,  hee  loveth  to  the  end ; 
becaufe  he  is  unchangeable,  the  fame  for  ever :  which  confi- 
deration  may  lerve  to  fettle  us  in  aflurance  of  Gods  love 
towards  us,  more  than  a  child  can  be  of  his  fathers  good- 
will, or  a  wife  ofhcr  bodily  Husbands  favour,  fortheyare 
mutable. 

Eightly,  Obferve  the  opportunities ,  when  it  pleafetb 
God  in  {peciall  manner  to  draw  nigh  unto  us  j  and  make 

1  ufe  of  them.  God  vifiteth  his  children  fometimes  in  ten- 
der couipalTion ,  and  knocketh  at  the  doore  of  their  hearts, 
^ M  2  inviting 


6. 

Rom.  10. 17. 
Rom.4.ti> 


7- 

tCor-i.io, 


Joh.ij.r. 


s. 


1 64 


of  the  temptations  whereby  Satan  feeketh  to 


Ephcr.6.16. 

I  Pet;.?. 


I 


inviting  them  to  divine  and  heavenly  comrfiunication  with 
him.  Sometimes  hee  inclineth  their  foules  to  frefh  (bnrow 
forfinne,  fbmetimes  herefrefheth  them  with  more  lively 
apprehenfion  of  the  joy  es  of  Heaven,  fometimes  they  feele 
the  motions  of  the  Spirit  qnicke  and  lively.  Upon  what 
occafions  Ibever ,  or  in  what  manner  it  fliall  pleafe  God  to 
offer  himfelfe  unto  us  ,  it  ftands  us  upon  to  make  ufeof 
that  for  our  quickning,  to  nourifli  the  motions  of  his  Spi- 
rit, and  by  fervent  Prayer  to  entreat  the  continuance  of  his 
pretence. 

Ninthly , Faith  increafeth  by  cxercife ,  and  groweth by 
continuall  ufe.  If  wee  learne  to  live  by  faith  in  matters  of 
this  life ,  both  when  wee  have ,  and  when  wee  want  the 
meanes »  and  reft  upon  God  for  fuccefle  in  our  lawfull  cal- 
lings, without  diftra6>ing  care ,  wee  fhall  with  more  facility 
and  cafe  depend  upon  the  free  promiles  of  grace  for  mercy 
andforgiveneflfe. 


CHAP.  XII. 

Of  the  teptf  tat  ions  vfherehj  Satart  feek^eth  to 
batter  dewne  our  faith,  and  how 
he  may  be  reftfied. 


§. 


i,"npHE  Devill  knoweth  right  well,  that  faith  is 
1  the  band  whereby  wee  are  knit  unto  Chrift ; 
the  fliield  whereby  wee  quench  the  fierie  darts  of  the  De- 
vil!, the  ground- worke  of  a  godly  life,  andthefafeCa- 
ftle  of  a  Chriftian  foule  :  If  faith  bee  weakened ,  our 
zcale  cooleth  ,  our  courage  abateth  ,  our  life  is  te- 
dious, our  Prayers  faint,  the  exercifcs  of  Religion 
uncomfortable,  and  all  the  graces  ofGods  Spirit  pine  and 
languifh.  Alfo  by  doubting  and  diftruft  wee  difhonour 
God ,  lay  open  our  hearts  to  temptations ,  difcourage 
others ,  and  tye  our  owne  hands  that  wee  cannot  fight  a- 
gainft  our  deadly  enemies.  For  thefe  caufes  Satan  cnde- 

vours 


TemptAtitm  A- 
gMitfi  F»tth- 

i.HTortbUJktJfe. 


Rftneile. 

Thefer.f:  tfow  un- 
tvoTthtitejfemufl 
tjltdifctHTage  tit 


hatter  downe  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  he  refijled.  165 

vonrs  by  all  meanes  CO  hinder  ,  as  the  kindly  taking  lb  the 
growth  offaith ,  that  fuch  as  ha  cannot  hold  in  the  chaincs 
of  fin  hee  might  make  their  lives  dead ,  wearilbme,  unpro- 
fitable ,  by  doubting  and  dilcomfort. 

Firft,  Satan  fuggefteth  ,  that  it  is  horrible  prefumption 
for  (uch  \[\t  finners  and  worthlcfle  wretches  to  perlWade 
themfelves  of  Gods  fpeciall  love  and  favour.  Andtothis 
end  he  fpareth  not  to  fet  forth  the  majeftie,  juliice,  and  pu- 
ritie  of  the  Lord,  that  it  might  flrikc  the  greater  terrour  in- 
to the  wounded  confcience. 

For  the  repelling  of  this  temptation,  it  is  tobe  knowne 
and  remembrcdjthat  Gods  mercy,  favour, promi fes,  and 
benefits  are  all  free,  which  hee  vouchfateth ,  offereth,be- 
ftoweth,  without  anyrefped^  of  worthineffe  or  deferts , 
of  his  meere  grace  and  undeferved  love  in  JefusChrifi. 
And  therefore  as  when  wee  are  moft  worthy  in  our  ovvne 
conceit ,  there  is  no  reafon  wee  fhould  prefume  the  more ; 
fb  when  wee  find  our  felves  unworthy,  there  is  no  caufe 
why  wee  fliould  hope  the  IcfiTe.  For  the  ground  of  our 
confidence  is  the  promife  of  free  and  undelerved  mercie 
made  in  Chrift  Jeilis  to  miferable  forlorne  finners ,  who 
fee  and  acknowledge  themfelves  tobee  morevile  than  the 
mire  \n  the  (ireer.  And  this  fets  forth  the  praifeofGods 
mercy  fo much  the  more,  that  it  is  afforded  to  fuch  barfe 
abjeits,  who  deferve  nothing,  bat  to  beecaft  forth  and 
trodden  under  foot.  Should  the  prifoner  doubt  of  his 
Princes  mercie  when  hee  heareth  his  pardon  read,  and 
feeth  it  fealcd ,  becaufe  hee  hath  merited  no  fuch  kind- 
nefle? 

Againe ,  it  is  good  to  call  to  mindc  and  ferioudy  to  con- 
fidcr  what  ftrong  encouragements  we  have  to  receive  the 
promifes ;  and  how  wee  are  not  more  defirous  to  beleeve , 
than  God  is  wee  (hould  fo  doc.  For  God  doth  through 
love  intreat  us,  of  friendlliip  counfellus,  and  of  his  au- 
thority ,  being  able  to  performe,  commandeth  us ;  as  ifhe 
wouU  hereby  (hew  ,  that  none  hath  authority  to  hinder 
or  forbid  the  fame. 'And  therefore  wee  muft  bee  warned, 


a  Corf.  19,1-0, 
iTim.i  I  J. 


M  5 


to 


M2,- 


i66 


§.1. 

2-  Viej  l{>icw  not 
vhethtr  tbfj  *« 
elccltd. 

Etmedj. 

1  fim.f.iz- 
Heb.10.j5. 
Matth.ij.Jf. 
Joel  ».i<5,27, 

joli.  lOlT- 
iydf4n  1^  Mat  t«  b* 
hurkf'iedu>>t»,n9r 
reafoned  rpith^ 
"Mben  he  (rmptfth 
to  Infiielitj. 
Genj. 1,2,3. 


EphcCi.ij. 


oft  he  temptations  rvherebj  Satan  jeeketh  to 


I.  They  are fuU  of 
doubtingi. 
.'faliit,!,* 
77.10,11. 


tobcware  of  all  occafions,  that  may  darken  or  put  out  the 
light  of  our  confidence ;  as  rcalbning  or  qneftioning  a- 
gainft  our  felvcs  for  yeclding  to  this  truth  lately  recei- 
vcd,&c. 

§.  2.  Satan  will  here  object  to  the  weake  and  timorous 
Cbriftian  ,  that  he  knovves  not  whether  hee  be  of  the  num- 
l)erofGodsele6lj  and  therefore  hath  nothing  to  doe  with' 
the  promifes.   If  the  Devil  1  fct  upon  us  in  this  fort ,  wee 
muft  hold  fuch  fuggeftions  to  arife  from  the  Spirit  of  er- 
rour,becaufe  they  are  contrary  to  the  voice  of  God,  who 
faith  to  the  aflfli6\edconfcience  that  iswearieoffinne,  Be- 
leeve-,  lay  hold  on  et email  life,  cafi  mt  away  thy  confidence ; 
Beefialflijhed,  confirmed,  and  abound  in  faith.  Therefore 
wee  muft  lend  no  care  tofuchwhifperingsofthcoldler- 
pcnt,  but  cleave  taft  to  the  word  of  the  Lordj  and  cut  off  all 
contrarie  inchantments.  It  was  the  firft  degree  to  the  utt6r 
undoing  of  her  felfe  and  porteririe  in  our  Grandmother 
JSve  J  that  fliee  opened  her  eare  tQ  a  falfe  and  lying  Ipirit 
in  the  mouth  ofa  Serpent,  which  under  a  faire  colour  per- 
fwaded>  or  rather  covertly  inticed  and  drew  her  to  eat  of 
the  forbidden  fruit. 

The  decree  of  God ,  which  is  fecret  in  the  bofomc  of 
the  moft  High ,  is  not  the  rule  according  to  which  wee 
muft  walke;  but  the  word  of  life,revealed  in  holy  Scrip- 
tures, we  muft  take  for  our  diredlion.  If  God  make  offer  of 
mercy  and  forgiveneflfe  unto  us  in  the  miniftery  of  the  Gof- 
pel,  which  is  the  Word  of  truth,  the  Word  of  falvation,  wee 
are  bound  to  receive  it,  without  looking  into  the  booke  of 
his  election :  and  if  we  receive  them  trncly,  wee  fliallbe  fa- 
ved,  as  the  Lord  hath  fpoken. 

§.  g.  If  Satan  bee  driven  from  this  hold,  hee  folicites 
to  fcare ,  becaufe  many  doubts  and  motions  of  diftruft 
arife  in  the  heart ;  as  if  there  could  be  no  faith ,  where 
there  are  fb  many  doubts.  And  it  cannot  bee  denied ,  but 
m.otions  to  diftruft  argue  faith  tobeeweake,  which  is  a 
want  that  many  of  Gods  people  doe  bewaile  in  them- 
felves,  and  for  which   they  doe  well-nigh  dcfpaire  in 

them- 


hatter  dorvne  our  FAith^  and  how  he  may  he  refijled.  \6'] 


thcmfelves.    Notvvithftanding  let  not  any  be  one  of  heart 
for  the  (mall  and  fcanty  meainre  of  his  faith,  if  hee  have 
trne  faith,  well  rooted.  For  faith  maybe  true  and  lively, 
that  \s  but  vveakc  and  rtnall.   For  difference  in  degrees 
doth  not  varie  the  nature  of  well  rooctd  afliance.  And 
God  requireth  the  tiiuhof  Faith ,  but  it  is  not  neccflarie 
that  it  bee  perfccl  in  degree.   If  a  Prince  iliould  proffer  a 
pardon  to  a  malefa6^or,  upon  this  condition  onely,  that  he 
receive  if  J  would  he  queftionhis  Soveraignes  bounty  and 
grace,  becaufe  hee  put  forth  a  paliey-fliaking  hand?  To 
doubt  of  Gods  mercy  becaufe  ourfiithis  feeble,is  rather 
to  relye  upon  our  faith  than  upon  the  Lord.   It  i%  not  the 
excellency  and  great  mealure  of  faith  that  doth  make  us 
righteous  before  God ,  but  Chrift  whom  faith  doth  re- 
ceive and  apprehend  :  which  a  we  ake  faith  can  doe  as  well 
as  the  flrongcfl.  Tiiey  that  did  looke  on  the  brazen  ferpent 
but  with  one  eye ,  yea  but  with  halfe  an  eye ,  were  as  •^tW 
and  fully  cured  of  the  deadly  ftings  of  the  fiery  ferpents, 
tL^  thole  which  beheld  it  with  both.    As  a  fmall  and  weake 
hand  is  able  to  receive  an  almes  as  well  as  a  f^ronger  and 
greater,  fo  our  faith  though  feeble,  doth  receive  Chrift 
astruely  and  effectually  forthefalvationofthebeleeveras 
thegreatef^  and  moft  (trong.  In  the  manner  of  receiving 
there  is  fomc  diflfcrence  (  for  the  more  firme  our  confi- 
dence, the  greater  is  our  comfort)  but  in  the  truth  none 
at  all.  Againe ,  it  is  not  faith,  but  Chrift  received  by  faith 
that  nourifheth  to  life  eternall.    Meate  reached  to  the 
mouth  by  a  trembling  hand ,  fuftaineth  the  body  no  leffc 
thanif  itwercapplyed  by  an  arme  of  ftrength ;  thegood- 
ncffeofthenourifLment  receiving  no  change  or  alterati- 
on from  the  externall  inftrument  of  application  :  fb  here 
Chrift  is  the  fame  to  thetn  that  receive  him  true ly,  though 
it  be  done  in  one  with  more,  in  another  with  lefTc  ftrength 
of  affiance. 

Wee  read  in  Scripture,  that  Chrift  reproved  fomefor 
their  fmall  faith ,  that  they  might  ftirre  up  themfelves 
more  confidently  to  relye  upon  him :  but  wee  have  not 

M  4  heard, 


F^ilh  may  Letnt* 

Joh.*  39,41,53. 
Lu\.9  -tS' 
Marki;.5i. 

I-uk.  2.)  .11. 

Joh. 13.58. 
&14.  5. 
A(Stn.6. 


l-\^ 


i68 


of  the  temptations  whereby  Satanfeeketh  to 


Mattli.i2.iO. 


§4. 

4..They  c*nntt 
keepe  their  fajth 
fiioi^  audffedfafi. 

TUmedte, 
Jimfs  !•  17- 
Bfal.  77.10,11. 


iVant  tffeelittgAr- 
pitthnot  VMtt  tf 
fatth. 


heard ,  that  hee  ever  reje6led  any  that  came  to  him  in 
weaknefle,  dcfiring  to  be  confirmed.  Theleaft  graincof 
faith ,  if  true ,  is  acceptable  unto  the  Lord :  Hee  will  not 
quench  the  fmoaking  flaxe.  His  dillike  of  our  vveaknefTe 
is  an  argument  of  his  love  and  care  for  our  good ,  who 
would  haveustobe  fettled  in  theafliirance  ofhis favour , 
and  not  to  waver  in  uncertainties  to  our  great  difcomfort. 
The  ftrait  charge  heehath  laid  upon  us  to  beleeve ,  and  the 
fevere  threatrtings  annexed  to  that  his  Commandemenc  if 
we  obey  it  not  5  is  a  manifeft  evidence  ofhis  bounty  and 
good  willtowardsus,  who  is  pleafed  thus  to  binde  us  un- 
to himfelfe,  to  confirme  unto  us  his  love,  and  Co  un- 
doubtedly to  aflurc  us  ofhis  mercy,  that  it  is  to  him  a  mat- 
ter of  unkindnefle ,  if  wee  (hall  once  make  doubt  or  fcruple 
ofit.  Doth  any  man  miflruft  the  affeition  ofhis  friend , 
becaufe  he  hath  oft  charged  him  not  to  be  ftrange,  to  make 
bold  with  him  in  any  matter  ofimportance  and  need,  and 
hath  rebuked  him  becaule  hee  ftands  a  loofe  as  though  hee 
flhould  not  be  welcome  ? 

$.  4.  Some  are  difmaied ,  for  that  they  cannot  keepe 
their  faith  ( for  any  continuance)  ftrongandftedfaft,  but 
they  feele  it  wavering,  inconftant ,  flitting,  fb  that  they 
fall  into  great  forrow,  feare  and  doubtings.  For  their  com- 
fort they  muft  know  that  there  is  no  (hadow  of  chang'e 
with  God,  and  that  it  is  their  weaknefle  fo  to  thinke.  Men 
arevariable  in  their  afFe<5^ions,  whom  they  dote  upon  this 
day,  they  deteft  tomorrow :  But  fuch  lightnefle  and  va- 
nity is  farre  from  our  God  :  His  love,  mercy,  and  gifts 
of  eracc  arc  all  unchangeable.  Alfo  they  muft  be  perfwa- 
ded,  that  labouring  after  and  groaning  to  reft  their  wea- 
ried Ibules  upon  the  promifcs  of  mercy ,  being  never  fatis- 
fied  till  their  doubtfulnefle  be  removed,  will  bring  a  good 
end;  Co  that  they  fliall  neither  mifcarrie,  nor  be  for  iaken 
of  the  Lord  in  the  loweft  depth  of  their  diftrefle.  And 
though  for  a  time  they  feele  not  that  they  have  faith  or 
life,  they  may  rnily  bee  alive  unto  God,  as  it  is  evident  by 
fundry  teftimonies  and  properties  of  the  new  birth ,  which 


l?attcr  downe  our  Faith ^  and  how  he  may  be  rejijied.  1 5p 


may  bcc  difcerned  in  them  who  doe  moft  complaineof 
their  eftates.    A  man  {uddenlyftriken  to  the  ground,  and 
amazed  with  fome  violent  blow ,  wanteth  not  life  altoge- 
ther, though  hce  perceive  it  not :  Breathing  and  moving 
are  infallible  tokens  of  life  in  the  body ,  which  by  many 
likelihoods appeareth  tobce  dead  :  fo  panting  and  brea- 
thing after  the  conlblations  of  the  Lord ,  and  the  light  of 
his  countenance ,  be  undoubted  fignes  of  the  new  birth , 
though  they  bee  not  cafily  dilcerned  (  efpecially  in  the 
houre  of  temptation  )  by  them  in  whom  they  arc.  Where- 
fore the  weake  in  faith  muft  bee  wife  in  heart ,  and  not 
meafure  themielves  by  their  prefent  faintings  and  infir- 
mities :but  wait  upon  God,  and  ufe  the  meanes  which  hee 
hath  prefcribed  in  his  Word .  As  children  firft  learne  to  goe 
by  a  ftoole  or  fourme ;  ficke  folke  recover  their  talie  or 
ftrengch  by  little  and  little;  plants  fliootnot  up  fudden- 
\y  and  at  once ,  but  by  degrees  ;  corne  fuffers  many  a 
'  (harpe  ftorme  before  it  come  to  ripenefle  :  lb  faith  hath  irs 
beginning, growth,  and  confirmation;  calmes and ftormes 
to  ripen  it. 

If  it  bee  demanded,  why  doth  God  deale  thus  with  his 
children,  and  fuffer  them  to  fall  into  fuch  depth  of  doub- 
ting, forrow  and  feare?  The  anfwer  is, that  in  regard  of 
the  beleever  himlelte  this  doubting  is  a  wcaknefle ,  which 
muft  bee  with-ftood  and  overcome  :  For  the  attaining 
whereto,  the  occafion  ofthis  doubting  in  him  who  hath 
once  beleeved  muft  bee  fearched  out,  and  lb  removed; 
which  ordinarily  is  our  owne  infirmity,  negle6lof  duty , 
and  fleightnefle  in  the  manner  of  performing  the  fame,  or 
fome  particular  fin,  or  pronenefle  to  (\r\,  and  nouriftii>  ,g  the 
lame,  or  long  lying  therein ;  whereupon  the  tender  con* 
iciencefeareththat  his  former  comfort  was  but  deceitfiill 
and  vaine,  and  lb  doubreth  of  his  good  eftate .  But  this  fal- 
leth  out  by  the  wife  providence  of  God  fo  difpofing ,  left 
by  the  fadden  change  from  fo  damnable  and  uncomfort- 
able an  eftate  to  fo  happie  and  joy  full,he  fliould  be  litced  up 
and  conceited ,  and  fo  become  fecure  and  prefumptuous. 
^ Againe 


m,y  tht/aithfull 
arefubje£f  to  fkeh 
douitt  and  Want 

of  feeling. 


;-  f-2-- 


'       i7< 


of  the  temftAtions  vohcrebj  Satanfeeketh  to 


5  V)'-f  rtctiVid 
theTiHthatfrfi 
without  duftitttt 

R.mtdy, 
Tjoh.  !.?• 


'EAt'th  may  he  true, 
thoiih  r/Mch  rrere 

ive  r  cciv:d  the 
trutii. 


(,.  They  never  had 
<that  deepe  fortovf 
ivhich  TiMHj  hm/e 
felt. 

(joii  dfles  net 
vitbaU<^lth*' 


/^gaine  jthis  maketh  him  the  more  to  prize  the  fcnfeof 
Gods  mercy,and  with  the  greater  care  to  preferve  his  faith, 
and  to  fhun  all  finne  and  wickednefTc ,  which  might  hinder 
thcapprehenfionofhis  continual!  love. 

$.  5.  Satan  tempteth  feme  to  doubt ,  becaufe  at  firft 
they  received  the  truth  without  due  tryall  and  exami 
"nation;  whcfecuty  it  is  carefully  to  reforme  whatlbever 
they  eipie  to  have  beene  amifle  :  but  for  one  rotten  poft 
it  is  no  wifedome  to  pull  downe  the  whole  building. 
For  God  is  mercifull,  and  ready  to  forgive  our  impcr- 
fecftions,  when  upon  the  knowledge  and  fight  wee  con- 
fefle  and  bewaile  them.    The  Difciples  at  firft  followed 
Chri(i  in  hope  of  temporal!  preferment ,  and  yet  their 
fairli  was  found  and  true;  for  when  they  came  totheknow- 
ledge  of  their  crrour  they  reformed  it,  and  didflillinfe- 
parably  cleave  unto  him.   It  is  the  great  wifedome  and 
mercy  of  the  Lord  >  for  a  time  to  hide  from  his  children 
the  fght  of  their  infirmities  and  wants,  and  notwith- 
fianding  their  manifold  weaknelTes  to  a&brd  unto  them 
the  fenfe  of  his  love  ;   left  they  Hiould  bee  utterly 
difcouraged  and  faint  under  the  burden  for  want  of  ex- 
perience ,  finding  the  entrance  into  life  hard  and  diffi- 
cult.   Natural!  diieretion  teacheth  us  to  deale    with 
children  according  to  their  ability,  and  not  to  difhear- 
ten  them  by  exacting  what  is  above  their  ftrength :  The 
like  compaflion  doth  the  Lord  flievv  to  his ,  by  the  com- 
forts of  bis  Spirit  preparing  them  to  endure  the  aflaults  of 
Satan. 

$.^.  Many  Chriftians  beeexercifed  with  this  tempta- 
i  tion ,  that  they  cannot  bee  the  children  of  God,  becaufe 
they  never  had  that  deepe  forrow  and  long  lying  under  it 
that  many  of  their  brethren  have  had.  Whereas  they 
ftiould  know ,  that  not  mens  examples ,  but  Gods  Word 
mtift  be  our  rule  of  direction.  The  Lord  dealeth  not  with 
all  alike ,  Ijecaufe  in  wifedome  hee  knoweth  what  is  moft 
meet  for  every  man.  Doth  any  man  complaine  becaufe 
his  joints  are  fet,  or  his  wounds  cured  with  little  (mart 

and 


-i  a 


hatter  doivne  our  Faith ^  and  how  he  may  be  rejijied.  i  y  i 


andpaine?  ThePhyficianknovves  beft  theftrengthofhis 
patient ,  and  what  hee  can  bearc  :  what  is  necefl'ary  for 
one,  would  kill  another.    It  is  good  togrievc,  becaufe  wee 
can  grieve  no  more  for  finne  :  Bat  to  doubt  of  Gods 
love  J  becaufe  hee  deales  gently  with  us,  left  wee  fhould 
befvvallowedupofrorrow)  is  great  ignorance,  weak nefle , 
and  folly.  God  many  times  keepes  from  his  fcrvants  the 
horrible  and  gaftly  afpedl  of  their  finnes  in  wonderful! 
mercy,  left  the  horrour  of  them ,  and  Gods  wrath  due 
for  them ,  fhould  over-whelme  them.    If  God  by  in- 
ticements  and  (peaking  to  thy  heart  have  brought  thee 
home  unto  him  ,  thou  haft  caufe  to  magnifie  the  tender 
mercy  of  the  Lord  ,  who  bath  not  dealt  with  thee  after 
thine  inquities  :  for  had  hee  fet  thee  upon  the racke ,  as 
many  have  beene ,  thou  haftrcafbntothinke,  thouhadft 
never  beene  able  to  beare  it.  Feare  of  confcience,  griefc  of 
minde  ,  doubtfulnefle  of  falvaiion  commends  no  man  to 
God  ;  neither  is  it  againft  a  man  or  with  him  in  aflTuring 
himfelfe  of  lalvation,  whether  wee  have  longer  fliort  time 
beene  prefTed  with  fuch  (brrowes,but  that  hee  bee  well 
freed  and  delivered  fiomfuch  trouble,  and  dilchargcd  of 
his  feare. 

§■  7.  A  poore  Chriftian  \s  oft  put  to  great  plunges 
through  the  malice  of  Satan,  becaufe  there  is  much  weak- 
neffe  of  fpirituall  life  in  him  >  hee  never  (ck  any  great 
ftrength  of  grace  in  himfelfe ,  and  what  he  formerly  felt  is 
now  decayed.  By  this  Temptation  God  doth  chaften  our 
pride  and  fwelling  of  heart ,  unthankfulnefle ,  difconti- 
nuance  of  care  to  cherifh  and  increafe  received  graces  by 
meanes  fan^^Hfied ,  running  into  occafions  of  decay  and 
rooling,  and  contentment  with  a  fmall  pittance  of  grace, 
faith,  holincflfe  :  For  all  which  finnes,  and  other  of  like 
kind  ,  wee  muftunfaincdly  humble  our  felves  before  God  , 
craving  pardon  of  his  meere  grace  and  mercy.  This  Hu- 
miliation isa  Ipeciall  meanes  to  eafe  the  confcience ;  as  the 
wound  doth  ceafc  raging  when  it  is  opened  and  well 
drawne. 
'  And\ 


F<iith  may  he 
fou'd in  thtm^ 
y^'ho  tievtr  ftund 
fuch  dtpth  of 
forTmt\tH  others 
h4ve  dtn*. 


HoCLr*. 


§•7. 
7.  Thtj  ntverftlt 
*ny  great  Jlren^th 
of  pace. 

Remtdj, 


i'i^ 


172 


Wt  OT4V  havf 

true fAiih  J  hough 
^■e never  h-td  any 
great  flrenr^b  cf 


Jcr.3. 


Luke  II -2,3  j4> 


of  the  temptations  voherebj  Satanfeekethto 


5.8. 

8.  rrhattheyfir- 
merlyfelt  it  ntw 
dscAjei. 

1l(emtdi»- 
Phil  4.10. 
Mutk.i6.iS. 


Anditmiill;beremembred,  that  wee  are  but  children, 
and  therefore  weakc;  yea,  and  fubje6l  to  many  fpiritualJ 
difeafesjfuch  as  take  away  fenle  of  life  :  and  therefore  wee 
rriull  fccke  to  bee  cured,  and  not  dcfpaire  of  life.  When 
any  one  part  or  member  is  dirtempered  or  ill  ateafc,wce 
defpairc  not  ofthefafetie  of  the  whole  perfon,  but  labour 
to  cure  and  reftore  it  to  health  againe :  (b  when  wee  have 
offended,  wee  fliouldrelbrttothePhyfitianChriftJefus, 
make  our  complaint  to  him,  and  bee  confident  for  his  pro- 
mile  lake  that  he  will  help  us.  And  if  they,  who  have  falne 
and  ofif-'ended  God  ,  may  turne  home  againe  to  their  firfl 
Husband  with  good  welcome;  fballnot  they  much  more 
be  beloved  of  him,  and  comforted  by  him  ,  who  have  not 
provoked  him,  but  are  onely  held  downe  through  fcare  and 
"  infirmity  ? 

And  though  their  graces  beefmall,  they  may  bee  true 
whiles  they  be  fmall.  Little  faith  is  faith,  as  a  littlefirc 
h  fire.  Goddefpifeth  not  little  things  in  obedience  offe- 
red to  him.  In  thefacrificesof  theLaw,  not  the  price  of 
the  gift,but  the  ability  and  eflfeftion  oftheof^-ererwasre- 
fpedYed,  And  if  weaknefTe  of  grace  was  any  juftcaufe  of 
feare ,  who  might  aflurc  himfelfe  of  Gods  love  ?  Not  one. 
For  though  fome  have  grace  in  greater  meafure  than  o- 
thers ,  yet  all  are  compafted  with  infirmities,  and  have  not 
attained  unto  perfe(5lion.  But  it  is  not  lb  much  enquired 
how  great  or  little,  as  how  fincere  our  faith  and  obedi- 
ence is.  Faith  ifit  be  unfained,  though  but  as  a  grainc  of 
Muftard  feed ;  obedience ,  ifit  be  hearty,  though  mingled 
with  many  infirmities,  hath  promife  of  gracious  acceptati- 
on. And  thefmalleli  beginnings  are  pledges  of  greater 
favours,  where  there  is  thankfull acceptance,  and  conlcio- 
nable  ufc  of  thole  already  received  to  the  glory  of  the  bc- 
ftower. 

S.  8.  If  what  was  formerly  felt  bee  now  decayed  in 
feeling ;  even  in  Gods  deareft  children  there  may  be  decay 
of  graces  in  part,  and  for  a  time.  Of  the  Thilifpans  the 
Apoftlc  faith ,  your  care  beginneth  to  fpring  againe  :  be- 
like 


hatter  dorvne  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  he  refijled.  173 


like  they  had  their  winter  whom  a  new  Spring  revived. 
It  is  true  the  Lord  hath  promifcd ,  that  Hell  gates  fliall  ne- 
ver prevaile  utterly  to  overthrow  the  faith  of  his  chofen, 
or  any  other  grace  radically  accompanying  falvarion  :  but 
to  preferve  continuall  fenfible  exercile  ofany  grace,he  hath 
no  where  promifed.  The  graces  of  God  doe  ebbe  and  flow 
in  his  Servants  (and  that  by  the  wife  difpofition  of  God) 
left  ifwee  had  attained  facility  in  all  things,  wee  fliould 
thinke  that  our  owne,  which  is  meerlyhis  worke.  Who 
amongftthe  faithfull  doth  alwayes  hearewith  equall  at- 
tention ,  reverence ,  chearefulneffe  ?  &c.  or  pray  with  like 
carneftnefle  of  defire  ,  feeling  of  wants ,  aflurance  to  bee 
heard,  orfubmilTiontoGods  will?  or  doe  any  thing  at  all 
times  fo  a  s  at  fome?  The  Lord  many  times  withdrawes  the 
ule  of  fome  particular  grace,  that  fome  other  may  in  greater 
meafure  Ihcw  forth  it  lelfein  us.  Joy  and  rejoicing  in  his 
mercy  he  vvithalds  3  that  he  might  bring  to  the  praSice  of 
humiliation. 

§.p.  What  if  a  Chriftian  cannot  finde,  no  not  after 
fearch  and  examination,  any  lively  fenle  or  feeling  of 
faith ;  nay,  hee  cannot  dilcerne  any  faith  at  all  in  himfelfe  ? 
Hereby  the  Lord  may  corre6l  our  unthankfulnefle  for  mer- 
cies formerly  received,  or  that  prelumptuous  licence  we 
tooketoour  {elves  in  finning ,  or  in  queftioning  with  our 
fslvcs  of  his  graces :  All  which  things  wee  are  heartily  to 
confefleand  bewaile.  But  for  the  comfort  of  thediftrei- 
fedjheiscoknovv  that  Ibmetimes  graces  may  lye  hid,  yea, 
and  worke  in  refpect  of  our  acknowledgment  infenfibly. 
The  feed  of  faith  cannot  be  loft ,  after  it  is  once  planted  in 
an  honeft  and  good  heart  by  the  holy  Spirit  :  but  the  fight 
thereofmaybeehid  fromonr  knowledge,  and  the  lively 
funflions  thereof  intermitted.  The  childe  Vwe^  in  the  mo- 
thers wombe ,  though  it  know  not  fo  much.  Life  re- 
maines  in  a  man  fallen  into  a  dead  fvound ,  wherein  hee  is 
deprived  for  a  time  of  underftanding ,  realbn,  memorie, 
fenfe ,  motion ,  and  all  apparent  vitall  funftions.  The  tree 
lives  in  winter ,  though  nipped  with  frofts ,  and  weather- 
beaten 


InQodsdearefi 
children  there  may 


%.9-       ^ 
9.  They  cann'tpnd 
any  lively  fin/c  of 
faith. 

'B^medy, 


We  may  not  coa. 
elude, there  if  no 
truth  of  grace  in 
Hi  becaufe  we  c/in. 
not  perceive  and 
feeleit. 


j-l-i- 


r 


174 


of  the  temptations  wherebj  Satanfeeketh  to 


Prov.30.t2* 


Pfal.ipn. 


In  time  ofttmp- 
tdtien  thtj^tdly 
doe  errematty 
'A>aies  in  exami' 
nation  ofthtm' 
Jelvet, 


beaten  with  tcmpcfts ,  dead  in  appearance.  Coales  raked 
clofe  under  the  adies,  that  they  give  neither  heat  nor  light, 
doe  yet recainc both,  though  they fliew not  forth  them- 
felves.  There  is  a  generation  fftre  in  their  owneeyes  ,  who 
are  not  purged  from  their  iniquities :  the  moft  holy  are  not 
privie  to  all  their  fecret  finnes ,  nor  throughly  acquainted 
with  the  deceitfulnefle  of  their  owne  hearts  :  And  the 
graces  of  the  Spirit  may  lye  hid  in  the  hearts  of  the  rege- 
nerate,and  worke  infenfibly  to  their  feeling  and  difcerning, 
as  well  as  corruption  lurke  fecretly  and  worke  privily  in  the 
fouleboth  of  regenerate  and  unregenerate.  An  argument 
drawne  from  his  lenfe  and  feeling,  may  havefome  colour  in 
the  conceit  of  a  diftrcfled  minde :  but  in  truth  it  is  a  de- 
ceitful! reafoning  to  conclude.  That  they  have  no  faith, 
bejftiufe  they  have  no  fenfe  or  feeling  thereof  in  their  appre- 
henfion. 

In  the  agony  of  confcience  none  are  more  unfit  to  judge 
of  our  eftate,  than  wee  of  our  ownc.  Though  at  other 
times  wee  be  fickc  of  felfe-Iovc ,  and  too  partiall  in  our 
owne  cafe;  yet  in  this  ftate,  towards  our  felveswee  are 
moft  uncharitable ;  and  being  out  of  love  without  felves, 
wee  are  apt  to  derogate  from  the  worke  of  Gods  Spirit  in 
us.  It  is  moftcertainealfo,  that  in  the  examination  and 
triall  of  our  eftates,wce  commit  no  fmall  errours  in  the 
time  of  temptation ,  the  minde  being  clouded  with  the 
mifts  of  Satans  fuggeflions,  and  the  heart  lb  diftempered 
with  feare,  that  wee  cannot  difcerne  the  graces  of  God  in 
us,nor  acknowledge  boldly  what  in  a  Ibrtweefee.  Sugge- 
ftions  wee  take  to  be  finnes  of  confent  and  purpofe ;  failing 
in  the  purpofed  mcafure  of  (jurying  God,  or  in  fome  particu- 
lar 5  wee  diftinguifh  not  firom  falling  from  our  generall 
purpofe  to  cleave  unto  God  in  the  performance  of  all  du- 
ties of  holineflfe  and  righteoufncflc:  we  put  no  difference 
betwixt  abfolute  falling  from  purpofe,  and  failing  in  exe- 
cution ofpurpole  in  fome  particular.  Common  infirmities 
wee  judge  prefumptuous  finnes ,  or  fuch  blemifhes  as  can- 
not be  in  the  Saints  of  God :  paffions  wee  efteemc  as  deli- 
berate 


hatter  dorvne  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  he  rejijled.  175 


berate  purpofed  refolutions ;  and  motions  to  diftruft , 
which  are  evidences  of  weakneffe,  are  fuppofcd  pregnant 
tokens  of  totall  infidelity.  Ccrtaintie  of  adherenccis  not 
diftinguifhed  from  certainty  of  evidence  :  ifvvee  find  not 
aflurance  of  pardon ,  we  conclude  there  is  no  faith,  though 
poflTiblyatthe  prefent,  wee  rcfolve  to  roll  our  lelves  upon 
the  faithfull  promife  of  God ,  aud  powre  out  our  ibules  for 
mercy. 

The  Lord  diverfly  gives  evidence  of  his  Spirits  prefencc 
in  us.   Sometimes  a  child  of  God  perceives  little  diffe- 
rence in  practice  betwixt  himfelfe  and  very  aliens ;  yet 
let  him  view  his  affections ,  he  may  fee  grace  there :  Ibme- 
times  againe  more  may  bee  feenc  in  pradlice  ,  than  in  the 
affedHoo.  When  the  heart  is  over-whelmed  with  feare 
and  doubr,  a  man  cannot  findc  love,  joy,  or  delight  in  the 
Word  of  God ;  but  then  his  frequenting  the  houfe  of 
God ,  bis  private  reading  and  conference,are  teftimonies 
that  his  ivill  is  bent  to  the  Law  of  God.  But  thefe  things 
are  not  obferved  in  the  times  of  diftrefle  and  bitter  anguifh; 
whence  it  followeth  ,  that  God  may  evidence  his  prefencc 
with  m  by  the  Spirit  of  grace,  when  by  reafon  of  our  frailty 
we  cannot  difcerne  it. 

Furthermore ,  if  a  man  can  difcerne  nofparke  of  grace, 
nor  fcele  any  good  thing  in  himfelfe,  hee  is  not  to  delpaire. 
But  as  the  fenfe  and  feeling  of  his  prefent  fhteoughtto 
humble  him  under  Gods  hand,  and  move  bim  to  enter  into 
a  ferious  examination  ofliimfelfe,  and  to  unfained  repen- 
tance for  his  finnes:  fo  mu(t  he  take  comfort  nnto himfelfe, 
and  prop  up  his  weake  declining  faith, by  calling  to minde 
former  times,  wherein  the  Lor4  hath  caufed  his  mercifull 
and  gracious  countenance  tofhineupon  him ,  and  wherein 
hee  hath  glorified  God  by  an  holy  life  and  converfation. 
For  if  ever  he  hath  difcerned  the  graces  of  Gods  Spirit  by 
the  fruits  of  fanClification >  they  are  not  utterly  taken  away, 
though  for  a  time  they  bee  buried  from  his  light,  that  hee 
cannot  find  them.  The  feed  is  not  dead  that  lyeth  all  win- 
ter under  the  clods,&  appcareth  not  by  fruii  above  ground. 

If 


Ifd  nan  can  dif- 
cernenofpttrk^ 
of  grace  in  him- 
fiifcfor  the  pre. 
fiiit,  hi  imot  to 
dejpahc. 


iO.II. 


/'<c- 


176 


Era.yf.i,». 
Maoh.ti.ao' 


5.10. 
I  Pet. J. 8. 

lO.  Their  fmnes 
be  many  innunt' 
ber^»d  hainous 
fcT^MAlitJ. 


of  the  temptations  where  hy  Satan  feeketh  to 


The  htinoufntjft  or 
number  ofowfint 
make  tu  not  unca- 
f»ble  of  mercy. 
Remedy. 

1  Cor.i.J. 
Efa.55.7. 

Jam  J7. 
er.  J  .1,1,  J,  I  J, 14. 


If  he  be  not  able  to  gather  comfort  from  former  experi- 
ence ,  but  be  ready  to  queftion  that  alfb,  yet  muft  hee  not 
give  way  to  uncomfortable  and  deading  forrow :  becaufe 
thethirftiefoule,  who  neither  fecleth  inward  fap,  nor  fin- 
deth  outward  frnit  of  grace ,  is  called  to  come  onto  Chrift 
the  fountaineof  living  waters ,  that  in  him.and  by  him  hec 
might  be  eafed,refreflied,and  made  fruitfull.  This  gracious 
invitation  the  poore  foulje  muft  lay  hold  upon,  and  lay  with- 
in himfelfe,  I  will  draw  neere  unto  the  God  of  my  falvation, 
and  truft  in  him;  for  I  have  his  firme  and  ftable  promife, 
that  I  fliali  be  watered  with  grace,  and  refreQied  with  com- 
fort. If  I  be  hungry,  he  hath  plenty  of  provifion ;  if  barren, 
dry,  and  withered ,  with  him  there  is  abundance  of  grace, 
that  I  may  be  enriched. 

$.10.  The  Divell,  who^^^^^  a^ffut  like  a  roaring  Lio», 
ff eking  whom  he  may  devoure ,  will  not  {pare  to  ftjggeft 
tothe  contrite  and  humbled  Ibulejthat  God  cannot  or  will 
not  forgive  his  tranlgreflSons ,  which  have  beenemofthai- 
nous  for  quality,  many  for  number  j  and  in  which  hee  hath 
long  lived  and  continued.  And  it  may  be  the  Lord  would 
hereby  correct  our  former  conceits  in  the  dayes  of  our  va- 
nity ,  that  of  all  things  pardon  of  finnes  is  moft  ealily  ob- 
tained ,  that  it  was  but  a  Height  and  fmall  thing  to  finne  a- 
gainft  Godjthat  we  might  well  enough  take  our  fill  of  finne 
for  the  time,  and  turne  to  the  Lord  in  old  age  and  ficknefle. 
But  withall  ,this  thought  muft  be  held  to  arife  from  Satan, 
and  fhunned  as  repugnant  to  the  truth  of  God.  For  the 
promife  of  pardon  is  made  to  repentant  finners  without  li- 
mitation to  any  time,  pcribn ,  quality ,  or  number  of  offen- 
ces. And  for  the  remedy  and  removallof  this  temptation. 


firft,wefliould  humble  our  felves  before  God  for  our  light 
efteeme  of iinne,  and  procraftination  or  delayes :  And  then 
confider  the  endlefneffe  of  Gods  mercies  in  Chrift ,  the 
price  which  was  paid  for  our  redemption ,  the  fweet  promi- 
ses propounded  in  the  Word,  the  ftablenefle  and  perpetui- 
ty of  the  Covenant ,  and  the  examples  of  great  finners  re- 
ceived to  mercy. 

And, 


^i  I 


hatter  dorvne  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  he  rejtjied. 


177 


a  Job  IJ.15« 
bricbirt. 


And  what  if  a  man  lenlibly  feele  the  hcavie  burthen  off  ^^  ^^^  /Vf/*rA* 
Gods  wrath ,  and  plaineJy  diicerne  his  frowning  and  an-  'It^viFttZln  of 
gry  countenance  ?  Though  fenfe  of  Gods  Jove  faile ,  faith   ^"jJ.SiV 
may  continue  ftrong.  For  faith  is  not  grounded  upon  fenfe 
and  feeling :  but  upon  Gods  gracious  promifes,  immutable 
goodneffe,and infallible  truth.Yea^wtien  a  fenfe  and  feeling 
ceafe ,  then  faith  which  is  t>  the  evidence  of  things  notfeene,  I  fluhmljl 
beginneth  it  chiefeworke  :  and  the  molt  excellent  faith  \ha'!^fZ''^fi'or 
flieweth  k  Cclfc  molt  cleerely  when  wee  have  no  fcnfe  or  IfithH^lfZIr^. 
feeling,  or  when  we  feele  the  cleane  contrary  .Faith  looketh 
to  the  promife,  mercy,  power,  and  truth  of  God,  and  to  the  | 
manner  of  his  working;  and  feeing  hismer(?yisincompre- 
henfible,  his  power  infinite,  his  manner  of  workingby  con- 
traries, his  truth  firme  and  immoveable ;  therefore  in  the 
greaceft  terrours  it  beleeveth  peace;  when  God  (lie  wech 
himlelfeanenemie,  it  apprehendeth  him  loving  and  mer- 
cifull ,  andoutof  thedeepeft  humiliation,  above  fenfe  or 
realbn  gachereth  the  fwceteft  conlbhtion.    If  ever  wee 
have  taHed  of  Gods  love  and  mercy,  lively  faith  conclu- 
deth  that  wee  are  (tillinhis  love  and  favour,  whatfbever 
we  apprehend  in  our  prtient  fenfe  and  feeling  :  for  whom 
he  loveth ,  to  the  end  hee  loveth  them.   Yea,  faith  goeth 
before  experience  or  fenfe  of  mercy ,  and  waiteth  for  lal- 
vation  in  Chrilt,  in  the  depth  of  miferie,  grounding  it 
felfe  meerely  npon  the  Word  of  troth  which  cannot  lie» 
Wee  beleeveto  tafte  the  goodnefle  of  the  Lord,  not  be- 
caufc  we  have  felt  already  how  kind  the  Lord  is  ;  though 
we  may  make  ufe  of  feelings  paft ,  to  fu(taine  us  in  prefent 
agonies. 

Experience  and  fenfe  is  a  flay  or  prop  for  our  better 
eafe,  not  the  ground  upon  which  our  faith  leaneth;  and 
though  it  be  fhaken,  faith  continueth  firme.  If  therefore 
at  anytime  our  fenfe  and  feeling  tell  us  one  thing  ( namely, 
that  God  hath  caft  us  off  for  ever  ,and  will.never  looke 
gracioufly  upon  us)  and  the  Word  of  God  aflure  us  of 
another,  to  wit ,  that  God  doth  love  us ,  and  will  never 
forfake  us  utterly  ;  wee  are  not  to  give  credit  to  our  owne 
^ N  feeling. 


James  1. 17. 
John  13.  i.2> 


l'\^ 


178 


38.3,4.&77-7-& 

88.14- 

Jer.ao.iiji;. 


5.1T. 

ii.Thty  have  hn^ 
ufed  the  meanei 
of^raee,dnd  tan 
ftnde no  comfort. 
Cant.y.i.v 


ofthetemftations  whereb-j  Satanjeekethto 


feeling,  but  no  Gods  Word.  For  our  fenfeisoft  decei- 
ving, fpecially  in  matters  of godlincfle  :  but  the  Word  of 
the  Lord  is  finccre  and  abideth  for  ever.  Jo  bodily  difea- 
fes  of  feme  kinde,  wee  truftmoreto  the  judgement  of  a 
skilfull  Phyfician,  than  to  our  ovvne conceits;  and  fhall 
wenotihinkc,  that  God  knowes  our  fpiritualleftate  bet- 
ter than  we  our  fclves  ?  What  can  wee  beleeve  in  matters 
ofreligion,  if  wee  beleeve  not  more  than  we  can  diicerne 
by  fenle  or  reafon  ?  The  being  ofa  thing,  and  the  fcnfi- 
ble  difcerning  of  the  thing  to  bee,  are  divers.  Howfbever 
at  Ibmetimes  they  concurre,  yet  oftentimes  they  are  feve- 
red and  dif  joy  ned.  BecaufetheSunneappearcthnotto  us 
at  Mid- night,  (Kali  we  conclude,  that  it  never  hath,or  will 
fhine  to  us  againe?  Shall  a  child  imagine  his  Father  never 
did  or  will  truly  love  him  hereafter,  becaufe  for  the  pre- 
fent  he  doth  not  admit  him  into  his  prefence ,  or  aftbrd  him 
a  favourable  and  lovely  countenance }  No  lefTc  abfurd,but 
more  injurious  is  it  to  our  heavenly  Father ,  to  conje6lure , 
that  nograceorfavouristobe  found  with  God,  feeing  now 
the  beamcs  ofhis  love  and  mercy  are  hidden  from  us. 

The  deareft  fervants  of  God ,  who  have  beene  indued 
with  moft  eminent  graces ,  and  highly  advanced  into  fpc- 
ciall  favour  with  him,  have  yet  in  their  ownefenfe  appre- 
hended wrath  and  indignation  in  ftead  of  love  and  favour , 
difpleafurein  ftead  ofcomfort,and  trouble  in  ftead  of  peace. 
Did  God  tenderly  refpe<^  them,  when  he  feemed  to  teare 
theminpeeces  ,  and  to  breakc  their  bones  like  a  roaring 
Lion  :  and  fhall  wee  judge  ofhis  aflfeflion  by  our  prefcnt 
feeling  ? 

$.  II.  Butwhatif  wee  have  long  ufed  the  meanes  of 
grace,  and  can  finde  no  comfort?  In  this  cafe  wee  muft 
repent  of  the  former  negledt  to  ^cccpt  of  grace  offered,  and 
pray  to  God  to  forgive  and  pardon  it*  Wee  muft  alio  ex- 
amine our  hearts  with  all  care  and  diligence  to  finde  out 
the  fins  which  haply  doc  hinder  comfort,and  bewailing  the 
fame,  ftirre  up  our  felvcs  to  receive  the  promifes.  For 
oft-times  the  entertaining  of  fome  bofomc  finne,  which 

we 


hatter  dorvne  our  Fatth^  and  how  he  may  be  rejljled.  i  yp 


we  4rc  loath  to  part  vvithall,  is  that  which  makes  the  breach 
in  our  confcicnce.  And  ibmetimes  we  walke  without  com- 
fort j  not  fb  much  becaufe  God  with-holds  it,  as  that  we 
put  it  from  us ;  either  not  knowing  that  wee  are  called  to 
belceve ,  or  not  encouraging  our  Iclves  to  ftrive  againft 
feares ,  or  (hutting  our  eyes  againft  the  evidences  of  grace, 
that  God  hath  beftowed  upon  us,  or  miftaking  what  the 
teflimony  of  the  Spirit  is,  whereby  God  wit  nelfeth  to  us 
that  we  are  his  children.  For  whiles  wee  take  it  tobefomc 
vocall  teftimony ,  which  ccrtifieth  us  againft  feares  and 
doubts,  even  in  the  middeft  of  temptations,  and  in  a  man- 
ner whether  wee  will  or  no,  we  fall  into  no  fmall  perplexi- 
ties, not  finding  any  fuch  certificate  in  our  felvcs ,  whereas 
the  witncflc  of  the  Spirit  is  cleane  of  another  nature. 

This  is  no  new  thing,  that  God  (houldcaufe  his  chil- 
dren to  feekc  long  before  they  finde  comfort.  The  Apoftle 
in  like  extremity  hefoyght  the  Lord  thrice ^ihzt  is,ofccn,be- 
fbre  hee  received  anfwer.  And  though  God  delay,  cither 
to  chaften  negle<fls,  or  to  kindle  aftedlion ,  orthatgraces 
hardly  obtained  may  be  valued  according  to  their  worth  j 
yet  will  he  not  alwaies  defpife  his  children  that  cry  unco 
him  day  and  night.  The  ardent  defire  (hall  at  length  be  la- 
tisfied,  the  panting  foulc  be  refreOied  with  the  waters  c£ 
conlblation. 

Comfort  and  joy  is  the  reward  of  our  obedience  :  but 
patient  waiting  isapleafing  and  acceptable  fervice  to  God. 
ItisGodsvvorketogivecomfort  J  it  is  our  dutietovvaice 
for  it  in  the  waies  of  holincflc.  Let  us  bee  contented  to 
ferve  God  freely  without  wages ,  and  in  the  end  wee  fhall 
bee  nolofers.  Remiflion  ofhnnes  and  peace  crf*conicience 
are  favours  worth  waiting  for.  If  the  Lord  fliould  keepe 
cs  on  the  rackc  even  till  the  laftgalpe,  and  then  impart 
unto  us  the  leaft  drop  of  his  mercy  or  fenieofbis  love  in 
Jefus  Chrift ,  his  grace  were  unfpeakable  towards  our 
ioules  :  and  let  us  not  thenthinke  much  to  waitc  in  pa- 
tience a  little  while.  Wc  have  not  waited  fo  many  yeeres 
in  the  meanes  of  grace  for  comfort ,  as  God  hath  waited 

N  2  ^r 


times  Walt^ 
vithcut  comfort, 
btcamf:  they  put 

it  from  ihtm. 

fetvei. 


Offtntimtt  Gti 

CMifith  bit  chil- 
dren tofeek^  long 
before  thtj  find* 
comfort, 
a  Cor.ia?. 


/^f^ 


i8o 


of  tk  temptations  where hy  Satanjeekethto 


§11. 


fturfullextremtry 
Hotf  thii  tempta- 
tioa  utibc  re- 
fficd. 


Rom.8.}4,35' 

b  Phil.  i.<?. 
Rom.ii  !(>• 
Pfal.  J7-  *4' 


for  our  converfion.  If  we  have  made  him  to  ftand  knocking 
at  thedooreofour  hearts  long  before  we  gave  him  entrance; 
let  it  not  feeme  tedious,  if  the  Lord  doe  not  'forthwith  open 
to  us  the  doore  of  his  privie  chamber,  and  admit  us  to  the 
fwcet  fellowfhip  and  communion  with  him.    Comforts 
when  they  come  are  ufually  proportioned  to  the  meafure 
of  tribulation,  and  multitude  of  fervent  prayers  powred  out 
before  the  Lord.  Much  trouble  receives  in  the  end  plenti- 
ful! conlolation. 
-     ^  .        $.12.  Satan  molefteth  fome  Chriftians  with  feare  of 
lfSL7n!!}om.\^^^'^'^^Z  ^^^^  fomefearefullextremitie:  Bywhichtemptati- 
'    --^  onit  pleafeth  God  to  acquaint  men  with  their  own  weak- 

ncffe,  and  to  chaften  or  prevent  pride,  fecurity,rafh  cenfu- 
ring  of  others  that  have  fallen  into  fuch  difcomforts,  or  the 
like.  But  for  the  remedie  thereof,  let  them  labour  to  forti- 
fie  faith  in  the  gracious  promifes,  which  God  hath  made 
to  his  childrcn,of  fuftentation  and  prelervation.  As  faith  in- 
creafeth,fo  feare  abateth ;  as  it  ebbes,{b  feare  flows  .And  Izx. 
them  to  this  end  confider,that  Chrift  hath » prayed  for  prc- 
fervation  againft  all  feparating  extremes.   And  God  that 
cannot  lie ,  hath  ^  promiied  to  keepe  his  children  from 
utter  declining,  and  to  efl:abIiQi  them  that  bee  feeble  and 
ready  to  fall.  The  Lord  hath  made  it  knowne  to  bee  his 
will  andpleafure,  that  he  will  never  take  away  that  grace 
which  once  he  hath  given,  but  increafeit  rather  till  it  be 
perfe6led  and  accomplifhed  :and  when  we  are  aflured  of  his 
will,  we  may  relie  upon  his  power  for  theeffefUng  of  it, 
and  inferre  heewill  keepe  ns  fafely,  becianfeheisableto 
eftablifliandconfirmeus.  The  greater  our  weakenefle  is 
in  grace,   and  the  more  grievous  our  ficknefle  through 
finne  and  the  noyfome  humours  of  corruption,    the 
more  carefully  will  hee  watch  over  us  with  bis  Almig'hty 
power.  The  ttrong  cannot  ftand  by  their  owne  might,  if 
God  withdraw  his  hand  :  and  the  weakeftfliall  bee  able 
to  overcome  their  mightieft  enemies,  being  underpropped 
by  the  Lord.  What  flouds  cf  trouble  fbever  doe  flow  over 
ns,  we  fliall  efcape  drowning,  if  the  Lord  hold  uponr^hin.' 

Feare 


batter  downe  our  FMth^  and  how  he  may  be  rejijled.  1 8 1 

Feare  is  a  deceitfnll  and  malitious  paflion ,  tyrannical], 
rafh,  and  inconfiderate ,  proceeding  ottentimes  trom  want 
of  judgennent,  more  than  from  the  prefence  or  approach 
of  eviJi  to  be  feared ,  tormenting  with  the  dread  of  what 
fhaJI  never  come,  we  were  never  m  danger  of:  Iz  is  there- 
fore valiantly  to  bee  rcfifted ,  not  to  bee  beleeved  orrealb- 
ned  withall.  Feare  in  onr  owne  Ikength  is  by  all  meanes 
to  bee  cherifhed :  but  diffidence  in  Gods  power ,  mercy, 
goodnefle,  truth,  and  providence  is  to  bee  abandoned. 
The  ftrong  muft  not  prefume  in  himfelfe ,  though  more 
excellent  than  others  in  grace  ;  nor  the  weake  dirtruft  in 
the  Lord  i  though'  feeble ,  and  not  able  to  goe  high-lone. 
The  hope  of  prefervation  ftaying  upon  inherent  grace 
is  fclfe-confidence  :  and    the  feare  of  falling   arifing 
from  the  lenfe  of  weaknefle  is  diffidence  in  God.   In 
holy  Scripture  wee  fliall  finde,    that  the  ftrongeft  have 
fallen  ,   when  the  weake  have  (tood  ;  and  they  have 
beene  foiled  moft  grievoufly ,  not  in  the  greateftaflaults, 
but  when  they  have  given  way  to  their  lufts,   negledted 
their  watch ,  or  were  growne  fecure  and  dreaded   no 
danger.  The   Lord    beft  knowcs  the  ftrcngth   of  his 
childe ,  and  will  not  fuft'er  him  to  bee  ovenakcn  with 
thofe  uncomfortable  fails,  oiit  of  which  he  fhall  not  re- 
cover, j 
§  1 5.  Sundry  Chriftians  through  the  malice  of  the  ' 
Devill,  bee  unfettled  with  feares,   that  notwithftan- 
ding  all  their  care  they  fhall  never  hold  out  in  faith 
and  an  holy  courle  of  life  unto  the  end  ;  but  by  perfe- 
cution  or   other  afflictions  and  provocations   fhall  bee 
turned  backc ;  Ipecially  confidering  that  they  are  mar- 
vellous apt  to  {lip  and  coole  in  time  of  peace ,  and 
whileft  they  live  under  the  meanes  of  grace.  Thisfoarc 
is  to  bee  removed,  by  calling  to  minde the promifes  of 
God,  lb  plentifully  and  richly  fet  downe  in  the  word  of 
grace.  And  they  muft  confider,  that  the  fame  God  who 
kcepes  them  in  time  of  peace ,  and  blefleth  the  meanes 
of  grace  whileft  they  doe  injoy  them,  is  able  and  will 

N  5  uphold 


f 


H.ThtyJhallae- 
ver  held  ent  to  the 
end. 


How  this  tempta- 
tion it  to  be  re- 
moved. 


ut^ 


182 


Pfal.lf.t. 


tuli.S.  Ij. 


of  the  temptations  tvherebj  Satanfeeketh  to 


§t4. 

I  y.T/jfj^  are  Wit- 
Hy  "hinies  cTojfed 
and  aff,iSid. 


uphold  them  in  the  time  of  trouble ,  and  when  meanes  bee 
wanting. 

Of  our  felves  wee  ftand  not  at  any  time ,'  by  his  power 
we  may  overcome  at  all  times.  And  when  we  are  ibreft  af- 
faulted  ,  hee  is  ever  ready  at  our  right  hand,  to  fupport  and 
ftay  us  that  wee  fhall  not  fall.  Hee  hath  well  begun,  and 
Oiall  happily  goc  forward  inhisworke,  who  hath  in  truth 
begun.  For  true  grace  well  planted  in  the  heart,  how  weakc 
foever,  (hall holdout  for  ever.  All  totall  decaies come  from 
this,  that  the  heart  was  never  truely  mollified,  nor  grace 
deeply  and  kindly  rooted  therein. 

And  as  for  |;)rcfent  weaknetTes ,  it  is  good  to  acknow- 
ledge and  bewailc  them;  but  they  muflnot,  forfomeim- 
perfec^ions,  caftdownethemfclves  halfe  delperately ,  as 
though  God  regarded  them  not ,  or  they  (hould  wither 
and  utterly  decay.    For  as  the  drie  and  thirfty  ground  or 
fpunge  fucketh  up  much  water,  ib  the  humble  Spirit  dqinkes 
up  much  grace ,  and  (hall  bee  repleniftied  abundantly  with 
the  waters  of  comfort.  And  ii  their  portion  of  grace  bee 
the  Imalleft  of  all  others,  they  muft  drive  to  grow  forward, 
but  without  difcouragement.    For  of  fmall  beginnings 
1  come  great  proceedings;  of  one  little  fparke  a  mighty 
flame;  of  a  fmall  Acorne  a  mighty  Oakc;  of  a  graincof 
Muftard-feedagreattree:anda  little  leaven  feafoneththe 
whole  lumpe.  All  feares  and  doubts,  which arife in  their 
hearts,  muft  drive  them  to  fend  up  earneft  prayers  to  God 
daily  and  oft,  for  this  grace  of  faith  to  bee  more  firmely 
rooted  in  them :  which  they  muft  doe  willingly  and  gladly, 
that  they  may  feele  their  doubting  and  feare  to  vanifli  as 
fafl ,  as  they  perceive  their  hold  in  the  promifes  of  God  to 
waxe  ftronger. 

$.  14.  Satan  beares  many  in  hand,  that  therr  manifold 
crofies  and  troubles  in  the  world,  and  their  want  of  out- 
ward bleffings ,  is  an  argument  of  Gods  difpleafurc  to- 
wards them.  This  was  the  fiery  dart,  which  hee  by  the 
mouthes  c£  Eliphas  ^  Bi/dad,  ^ndT:c9phar  (yea  of  his 
ownewife)  did  flioot  at  Job  ;  againft  all  which,  if  hee 

bad 


H 


f 


5.^*; 


hatter  dowm  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  be  rejijled,  i  g  ? 


had  not  held  out  the  fhield  of  faich ,  hce  had  bcene  pierced 
through  and  through.  And  wee  fee  by  daily  experience, 
that  when  a  godly  man  is  croffcd  in  his  wife,  children, 
goods ,  reputation ;  thefe  outward  afflidlions  are  often 
great  occadons  of  deadly  forrowes  ,  and  grievous  temp- 
tations touching  the  aHurance  of  his  owne  falvacion. 
The  remedy  is ,  to  thinkc  ferioufly  and  to  acquaint  our 
felves  familiarly  with  the  properties  of  God;  the  truth, 
unchangeablenefle  and  nature  of  his  promiles ;  and  the 
manner  of  his  dealing  with  others  of  his  fervancs  in  his 
wonderful!  providence.  For  thereby  wee  (halllearne,  that 
God  doth  love  tenderly ,  when  hee  doth  correal  feverely  j 
and  remaineth  unchangeable,  when  our  outward  condi- 
tion doth  varie  and  alter :  yea,  that  all  his  chaftifemcnts 
are  but  purgative  medicines,  to  prevent  or  curelbme  ipi- 
rituall  dileafe,  which  hce  fecth  wee  arc  inclined  unto. 
Should  God  never  miniftcr  phyficke  till  wee  fee  it  need- 
fiill,  defire  to  take  it,  or  bee  willing  of  it ;  alas,  wee  I 
fliould  periih  in  our  corruptions,  and  die  for  want  of  help 
in  due  time.  It  is  good  to  humble  our  felves  when  God 
correfteth :  but  to  doubt  of  his, love,  when  heedealeth  lo- 
vingly with  us,  is  a  great  weaknefle .  Alio  wee  fliould  call 
CO  mmde  that  God  allowes,  yea  requires,  that  men  in 
affli<ftion   fiiould  live  by  faith,   both   for  a  faniflified 
ufe  in  them ,  and  a  good  iflue  out  of  them  in  due 
fealbn.  And  lb affli6lions  or  earthly  encumbrances  would 
bee  no  meanes  to  weaken  our  faith ,  but  to  incrcaie  it 
rather. 

§.  1  J.  Some  godly  perfons  by  the  fubtle  and  cruell 


malice  of  the  Devill,  are  brought  to  this  bondage,  that 
they  are  pcrfwaded  that  they  are  utter  reprobates ,  and 
have  no  remedy  againft  their  delperation.  And  this  temp- 
tat  ion,enough  of  it  felfe  to  fhake  and  terrific  the  afflicted, 
is  made  farre  more  grievous  when  melancholy  poflcfleth 
the  partie  :  for  that  raifeth  excelTc  of  diftruft  and  feare, 
and  caufcth  the  partie  to  perfwade  himfelfe  of  mife- 
ry ,  where  there  is  no  caufe.  In  this  weakenefle  Sarnn 

N  4  afifailes 


Rfmtdy, 

OutVird  crojjis 
are  no  arjum^nt 
»J  GcJs  dilbleit' 
fur*. 
Joby.  I -J. 

Jam.  1. 12« 
Hcb.  1 1.7.8,9, 


5Ty. 

1 6-  Thty  Ate 
^Tou^typojppj 
f^/ithfiare,  that 
Cod  IjtHhutteT' 
/ycajiihcinef. 


V1^' 


\        184  oftk  temptations  tv  here  by  Satanfeeketh  to  ^ 


thndiflreffeand 
anTtiifl:  are  ta  Oe 
comfottid. 


aflailes  fuch  poore  fcrvanrs  of  God  by  Ipirituall  fug- 
geftion ,  tempting  them  to  fuch  finnes  as  be  very  ftrangc , 
andiuch  as  they  abhorre  the  very  leaft  conceit  of  them  ; 
and  when  by  fuch  temptations  they  are  brought  low,  in 
the  anguilli  and  bitternefle  of  their  foules ,  theDcvill  Ja- 
boureth  efpccially  to  dimme  their  kpowledge  and  judge- 
ment ,  that  they  may  have  no  fure  hold  of  any  point  of 
doilrine,  which  may  foundly  comfort  them,  that  (b  hee 
may  as  a  roaring  Lyon  devoure  them  ipeedily.  And 
when  hee  hath  covered  their  hearts  with  darkenefle,  and 
brought  them  into  a  dreadful!  fcare  of  Gods  wrath,  hee 
holdeth  them  at  this  vantage,  that  every  thing  which  is 
before  them ,  is  made  matter  to  encreafe  their  diftrcfled 
eftate. 

For  the  ftay  and  comfort  of  fuch  diftrefled  ibules ;  they 
are  to  bee  perfwaded>  that  they  be  not  under  the  wrath 
of  God »  neither  is  his  anger  kindled  againft  them ,  for 
all  the  feare  that  opprefleth  them ,  when  their  eftate  is 
in  their  owne  feeling  at  the  worft  j  becaufe  they  have  not 
finned  againft  the  holy  Ghoft,  normaliciouflyfet  them- 
felves  againft  the  truth  and  Gofpel  of  God ,  nor  perfe- 
cutedit  wilfully  againft  knowledge  and  confcience  :  which 
one  fin  only  is  able  to  ftiuc  them  out  from  allhopeoffalva- 
tion.    And  here  they  muft  beware,  they  make  no  more 
finnes  of  that  kinde  than  God  himlelfe  hath  pronounced 
tobee  of  that  ibrt :  for  in  thefe  matters  that  concerne  Gods 
Religion,  even  the  perfection  of  our  vvildome  is  but  folly, 
much  more  our  fickebraines  and  melancholicke  underftan- 
dine  is  to  be  removed  farre  from  handling  fuch  holy  things. 
And  feeing  their  confciences  doebeare  them  witnefle,how 
much  thefe  temptations  are  repugnant  to  their  defires  and 
liking,  how  gladly  they  would  be  freed  and  delivered  from 
them,  how  grievous  and  burdenlbme  they  are  unto  them, 
and  chiefly  railed  by  Satan,  who  abufeth  their  fimplicity  j 
therefore  there  is  no  caufe,  why  theyfliouldbefodilcou- 
raged  or  out  of  heart,  no  m.ore  than  one  that  hath  had  a 
fearefull  dreamc,  when  he  awaketh. 

Moreover, 


Rom.8.2?. 
James  i.  ij. 
tfayeci.i. 


Fpher.6.io,i2. 
I  Ptt.;.8,5,. 


batter  dorvne  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  be  refijhed.  i  g  ^ 

Moreover ,  they  are  with  all  earnertneflfe  to  be  pur  in  \ 
minde  (yet  with  the  fpirit  ofmecknefleandcompafnon)  I 
and  toconfider,  how  much  it  doth  difpIcafeGod,  that  they 
are  removed  from  their  faith,  and  have  given  place  to  con- 
ceits and  fpirits  of  errour,  contrary  to  themoftcleareand 
'  comfortable  promifes  made  them  that  thirft,  repent, feare 
and  love  the  Lord ,  tremble  at  his  word,  are  broken-hear- 
ted, &c.  And  therefore  they  fliould  gather  more  godly 
boldnefle  and  confidence  in  God  on  the  one  fide,  and  more 
courage  and  firength  againft  Satan  on  the  other  ^\diZ. 
For  if  God  call  and  incourage  us  to  truft  and  relie  upon 
him,  and  wee  ftanding  in  need  thereof,  would  molt  gladly 
embrace  his  promifes  made  in  Chrift  Jefiis,  who  js  hee 
that  fhould  hinder  us?  The  Scripture ,  Ipeaking  ofthe  ma- 
lice ofSatan  in  tempting  and  afiailing  Chriftians,  biddeth 
them,  Bee  firong  and.  of  good  courage^  andrefififlrongin 
the  faith.  Satan  tempteth  them ,  to  overthrow  their  faith ; 
and  by  giving  place  to  feares  and  doubts  they  advantage 
the  enemie  againft  their  foules :  but  let  them  take  oc- 
cafion  by  the  temptation  to  draw  nigh  unto  God,  and 
rowfe  up  themlelves  m.ore  confidently  to  reft  and  waite 
upon  the  Lord  i  fo  Q:iall  they  pleafe  God,  and  put  Satan  to 
flight. 

Neither  let  them  afcerthisbe  ftill  obje»5ling ,  that  they 
feele  fmall  ftrengch  offaith  and  hope :  for  thereby  the  ene- 
my may  take  encouragement  to  their  diladvantage ,  when 
feare  fetteth  open  theheart  tohismalitiousternptations, 
and  binds  the  hands  ofthe  diftrelfed  that  hecannotrefift: 
but  let  them  ftir  up  their  courage  and  refolution  to  waite 
upon  the  Lord,  not  liftening  any  more  to  their  ftrong  but 
deceit  full  feare.  And  what  though  they  feele  not  that 
fwectnefie,  which  fometimes  they  felt?  will  they  therefore 
judge  their  ftate  to  bee  naught?  What  fweetnefle  can  the 
fouIetafte,when  it  is  over-whelmed  with  feares, perplexed 
with  temptations,  troubled  with  doubts?  Phyfickeisun- 
pleafant  and  bitter  to  the  tafte:  Temptation  ftiouldnotbe 
temptation ,  if  it  did  not  afFe<5l.  If  the  foulc  be  now  ficke , 

and 


-SX't 


f^- 


<■  II  n  -    -  — 


1 8  6  of  the  temptations  rvherehy  Satan  jeeketh  to 


and  tafteth  not  the  fwect  meates  ofconfolation,  which  it 
was  wont  (as  thebody  which  is  inacourfe  of  Phyficke) 
will  they  judge  ihemfelves  tobeftarkedead,  or  in  a  con- 
dition irrecoverable  ?  Wee  have  experience ,  how  divers 
times  the  difeale  prevaileth  over  the  ficke  perfon ,  that 
aftions  faile,and  faculties  fecme  quite  to  be  (pent ;  neither 
hand  nor  foot  is  able  to  doe  their  dutie ;  the  eye  is  dimme, 
the  hearing  dull ,  the  tafte  altered  ,  and  the  tongue  difta- 
fteth  all  things,  even  of  moft  pleafant  rellirh;  and  the 
weake  and  feeble  patient  fecmeth  to  attend  the  time  of 
dillblution  :  when  yet  notwithftanding  there  remaineth 
a  fectet  power  of  nature ,  and  a  forcible  fjjarke  of  life ,  that 
overcommeth all  thcfe  infirmities,  and  confumeth  them 
like  drofle,  and  rendreth  to  the  body  a  greater  purity  and 
firmenefle  of  health  than  before  the  ficknelle  it  did  en- 
joy. Even  fo  it  is  in  this  fpirituall  eftate ,  the  Ibule  is  ficke , 
and  not  dead,  faith  is  aflailed ,  but  not  overcome;  and  if 
in  patience  the  finifhing  of  this  fecret  worke ,  which 
paflcth  all  conceit  and  capacitie  of  man ,  be  attended,  thefe 
burningfeavers  of  temptations  fhallappeare  to  bee  flacked 
and  cooled  by  the  mercy  and  grace  ofChrift,  and  that 
fparke  offaith  which  now  lieth  hid  and  over-whelmed  with 
hcapes  of  temptations ,  to  breake  forth  againe  :  And  as  I 
nature  after  a  perfefl  crife  difchargeth  her  (qKq  ,  to  the 
recovery  of  former  health :  fo  fhall  all  doubts  and  fcares  and 
terroursbe  removed?  and  flrength  offaith  relioredwith 
fuch  fupplyjas  it  (hall  be  able  to  make  evident  proofe,what 
fecret vertue  lay  hid,  andyecnotidle,inall  this  uncom- 
fortable plight.  Againe,  as  in  outward  fenlcs  we  fee  fome- 
times ,  and  feele ,  and  heare,  when  we  doe  not  perceive  it : 
lb  we  may  alio  have  faith,  and  not  alwaies  have  thefenfible 
perceiving  thereof. 

Yea,  fuch  as  moft  hunger  and  thirft  after  righteoufhefle , 
andarepoore  in  Ipirit  and  broken  in  heart,  as  they  doubt 
and  feare  in  every  a61:ion  left  God  be  dishonoured  by  their 
converfation ,  fb  are  they  jealous  of  their  precious  faith , 
left  it  be  not  in  fuch  fneafure  as  they  defire ,  or  in  truth  be 

none 


hatter  downe  our  Faith^  and  how  he  may  he  refijled.  187 

none  at  all :  wherein  they  may  eafily  be  deceived  ,  firrt,  in 
the  dilcerning ,  then  in  the  meafurc  and  portion.  For 
when  rhe  inward  feeling  thereof  doth  not  anfwer  their 
defire,  and  the  ailions  proceedingthere-fromdoenotla- 
tisfie  their  thirft  of  righteoufnefle,  whereby  rcleefemay 
rife  to  the  nourifhment  of  faith ,  and  the  latisfying  of  that 
holy  appetite;  they  are  difcouraged  and  intangledwith 
fpirituall  cares,  from  which  amoreadvilcd  confideration 
agreeable  toGods  Word  might  eafily  deliver  them.  And 
touching  the  portion,it  is  a  fault  to  meafure  the  excellencie 
of  faith  and  power  thereof,  partly  by  quantitie ,  and  unfea- 
Ibnable  fruits  ((b  to  call  them)  and  notby  vertue,  kindc 
plantation ,  foveraigntic,  and  feafonable  fruit  :  which  er- 
rour  in  temptation  the  dilircfled  are  apt  to  runne  into,  and 
(b  to  trouble  themfelves  without  caufe.  Men  looke  not 
that  Corne  fhould  fpring  in  harveft,  orberipeinlpring; 
that  trees  fhould  bud  or  beare  fruit  in  winter :  becanfe  it  is 
not  the  feaibn  for  fuch  things.  Neither  ought  wee  to  expedl 
fach  ftrength  of  memory  and  lively  operative  a<Slions  of 
grace,  in  age ,  ficknefle ,  great  forrowes  and  temptations , 
as  at  other  times  in  young  yeeres  free  from  fuch  alfaults. 
The  fruits  of  faith ,  fit  for  the  feafon ,  may  be  dilcerned  by 
them  that  can  rightly  judge,  when  fweet refrefliings for- 
merly enjoyed  bee  lacking.  The  effedis  of  faith  in  great 
temptations  and  cloudic  feafbns  are  to  looke  up  for  helpc , 
figh ,  groane ,  complaine  to  God ,  prize  his  favour,  draw 
nigh  unto  him  y  and  caft  fiimfclfe  upon  God  >  though  hee 
feems  to  bee  angry  :  at  this  time  faith  is  incumbred  with 
many  ftrong  feares  >  wherewith  it  is  burthened ,  againft 
which  it  laboureth ,  over  which  it  doth  not  eafily  nor 
fpeedily  prevaile.  Joy,  peace,  f.veetrefreOiing,  and  fen- 
fible  rafting  of  Gods  mercy,  be  the  fruits  of  well  growne 
faith  in  the  times  of  victory  and  freedome  :  Thofe  Sum- 
mer-fruits are  not  to  begatheredin  the  depth  of  winter. 
It  is  an  errour ,  to  meafure  the  truth  of  grace,  in  age,  by  the 
effects  proper  to  youth,  or  the  foundnefie  of  faith  in  temp- 
tation, by  the  eftecls  peculiar  to  the  daies  of  triumph. 

Neither 


i 


♦  I^ 


i88 


of  the  temptations  whereby  Satan  feeketh  to 


Neither  are  wee  to  account  the  nature  of  any  thing,  accor- 
ding to  our  lenle,  or  the  fhew  it  maketh.  For  then  fliould 
the  moft  fi-uitfuU  tree  in  winter  be  taken  for  barren,  and' 
the  lufty  foyle  for  drie  and  unfruitful! ,  whileft  it  is  fliuc 
up  with  the  hardfroft.  But  realbn,  being  guided  by  the 
Word  of  God,  muft  leade  us  rightly  to  judge  of  the  pre- 
fence  and  life  of  faith  in  our  foules ,  which  being  the 
fhield  in  this   our  fpirituall  warfare ,  cndureth  much 
battering  and  many  brunts,  and  receiveth  the  fore- 
front of  the  battell ,  and  oftentimes  fareth  as  if  it  were 
pierced  through,  and  worne  unfit  for  battell;  yet  is  it 
indeed  of  nature  invincible,  and  repelleth  whatfoevcr 
engine  the  enemy  inforceth  againft  us,and  ftandeth  firme- 
rooted,  whatfoever  florme  Satan  raifeth  for  the  difp lacing 
thereof. 

How  then  are  the  diftrefled  to  behave  themfelves  in 
this  temptation ,  when  both  the  fenfe  of  faith  is  dulled  in 
them,  and  the  fruits  minifter  difcontentment ?  They 
muft  rightly  confider  what  bee  the  winter-fruits  of  faith, 
and  not  expe(5t  fuch  things  in  themfelves  as  agree  not  to 
that  fealbn ;  and  withall  remember  that  the  gifts  and  mer- 
cy of  God  is  without  repentance  :  and  fb  take  courage  un- 
to themfelves  confidently  to  caft  their  foules  upon  the 
mercy  of  the  Lord  in  JefusChrift.  Foi^asTie  knew  them, 
when  they  were  ftrangers  from  him ,  and  loved  them , 
when  they  hated  him,  and  had  nothing  which  might  pro- 
voke bis  mercy,  but  finne  and  milery  :  ib  is  his  good- 
neflc  continued  ftill  upon  them  for  his  owne  fake,  and 
not  at  all  for  their  deferving.  And  though  they  feele  their 
ability  weake  J  theenemieftrong,  their  ftrength  tired  and 
cleane  worne ,  their  corruption  upon  the  point  to  prevaile, 
the  fruits  and  branches  of  faith,  through  thefe  ftormy  tem- 
pefts, nipped  and  fliakcn;  yet  the  lap  of  faith  fliall  never 
be  dried  up  in  the  root ,  neither  can  any  winde  of  Satan  fo 
blaft,  that  the  immortal!  feed  be  at  any  time  quite  withe- 
red. But  patience  and  conftancy ,  with  a  refblute  minde  to 
beare  Gods  trial! ,  will  bring  a  good  end ,  yea,  by  a  meeke 


hatter  downe  our  Faith ^  and  how  he  may  be  refified.  189 


v»  ., 


going  under  Gods  handinthefe,  they  rhaJlIearne  experi- 
ence to  wade  through  greater  afterwards  j  and  yet  in  the 
midit  of  theirijto  have  hope  that  they  rhall  not  be  afhamed. 
Say  their  former  courle  of  \\^^  paft  hath  not  anfve- 
red  that  finccrity  the  Lord  rrequireth ;  what  then  ?  Are 
they  therefore  reprobates?   No,  but  it  argues  want  of 
faith  ?  Not  fb ;  but  place  for  further  increafe  of  faith  ,  and 
the  fruits  thereof.  Thole  whom  the  Lord  hath  chofen  to 
bee  hisworfhippcrs,  and  hath  redeemed  and  conlecrated 
holytohimfelfe;  they  behisplants,  and  engraffed  Olive- 
branches  in  his  Sonne ;  who  take  not  their  full  perfection 
at  once,  but  ( according  to  the  nature  ofplants  )  require 
daily  watering  and  drcfTing ,  whereby  by  degrees  they  at- 
raine  in  the  end  a  full  ftatureinChrift.  In  Scripture  wee 
have  example  of  weake  beleevers  aswellasofftrons;.  As 
rhe  Holy  Ghoft  hath  remembred  the  faith  0^ Abraham , 
who  beleeved  above  hope,  under  hope  :  lb  hath  it  recor- 
ded the  faith  of  Nicodemm ,  in  knowledge  fimple  and 
weake,  inprofefllon  and  prad>ice timorous  andfearefull. 
In  one  and  the  fame  perlbn  we  fliall  finde  different  degrees 
of  faith  at  divers  times ;  at  one  time  like  a  graine  of  Mu- 
rtard-leed ,  at  another  time  like  agro,vne  Oake  ;  now  like  ' 
a  fmoaking  fnuffe,  but  foone  after  burning  out  into  a  bright 
flame.  The  ftrongeft  faith  of  any  Saint  mentioned  in  Scrip- 
ture is  imperfed,  aflailed  with  temptations,  mixed  with 
manifold  doubtings.  For  they  were  fubjeifl  to  innumerable 
infirmities,  which  arenotfpecifiedintheBookeofGod  ; 
neither  was  it  fit  that  it  fhould  bee  a  rcgifter  of  their  mani- 
fold temptations,  frailties,  and  falls.  But  out  of  thofe  things 
which  are  recorded  ,  we  may  perceive ,  they  were  fliaken 
with  aflanltSjOver-taken  with  corruptions,tripped.and  foiled 
Ibmctimesby  the  policie  ofSatan  .All  which  is  ^tx.  upon  the 
file  for  our  admonititon  and  conlblationSo  that  a  Chriftian 
may  not  account  himfelfe  void  of  grace ,  bccauie  hee  \^  not 
pcrfe6t  in  faith,  knowledge ,  and  love :  but  he  is  wilely  to 
conftder  the  fecret  worke  of  Gods  Spirit  and  grace,and  take 
comfort  of  the  fmalleft  crum  and  drop  of  this  ^heavenly 

fu'^en- 


Mark.9. 2^, 


J'jhn  jt] 


Numb  »o. 
Pfal.  22.1 
77-7.S. 


IT,I2. 


Rom.  15  4. 


MV 


190 


of  the  temptations  ppherehj  Satan  feeketh  ti 


MattLiT  48. 


ftentation,and  attend  the  time  ofperfed>  growth,according ' 
to  the  good  pleafure  of  God. 

Oh ,  but  they  feele  not  the  teftimony  of  Gods  Spirit , 
which  might  aflnre  them ;  they  can  finde  no  fparke  of 
grace  in  themfelves- Neither  doe  any  of  Gods  children  at 
all  times  feele  it  :  but  that  they  may  fee  their  own  frailty  , 
God  doth  as  it  were  hide  himfelfc  for  a  feafon  (as  a  Mother 
doth  from  her  child  to  trie  hisaffe(5ticn)  that  they  may 
with  more  earneft  defire  mourne  for  Gods  wonted  grace , 
and  praife  him  with  more  joyfulneffe  of  heart  when  they 
have  obtained  it  againe.  And  yet  God  doth  not  with-hoJd 
com.fort  from  his  children,  many  times  when  they  waike 
heavily  :  but  their  owne  frailty  and  vehemency  of  temp- 
tation, which opprefleth  them,  diminifheth  the  feeling 
thereof.  When  the  windc  is  loud,  the  aircftcrmic  and 
tempcftuous ,  a  man  cannot  heare  the  voice  of  his  friend; 
when  the  heart  is  filled  with  feares,  and  perplexed  with 
manifold  temptations  tolling  it  up  and  downe,  thccalme 
and  ftill  voice  of  the  Spirit  is  not  diiccrned.  Andinthofe 
feafons,  the  triall  of  faith  is  tobc  taken,  by  thofefruitr, 
which  arc  evident  to  the  eye  of  others ,  who  can  judge 
more  fincerely  than  the  affli6ted themfelves,  in  that  an- 
guifh  of  Ibule  andfpirit.  As  the  fick  man  during  the  time 
ofhisdiftcmper,mnftnottruft  to  his  owne  talie,  but  ra- 
ther relie  upon  the  learned  Phyfician,  and  other  honeft  and 
difcreet  friends  :  fo  the  faithftill  muft  not  give  too  much 
credit  to  the  fuggeftfous  of  their  owne  heart  poflefled 
with  feare;  but  rather  bcleeve  their  faithfoll  Paftor, 
and  other  godly  and  exporienced  Chriilians  that  are  about 
them. 

But  to  yeeld  fo  much  to  their  prcfent  weaknefle  (be- 
caule  in  this  peplexity  they  will  bee  ever  and  anon  quefti- 
oning  the  loundneue  of  former  comfort,  and  integrity 
of  their  hearts)  fuppofe  they  were  deftitute  of  grace, 
add  never  had  felt  found  comfort ;  fhould  they  utterly 
defpaire ,  or  give  place  to  deading  fbrrow  ?  In  no  fort,  for 
Chrift  calleth  the  burthened  and  laden  tocome  unto  him 

for 


I 


batter  dovpnt  our  Faith^  and  how  he  way  be  refified. 


*^-^ 


for  eafe  and  comfort.   Being  dcftitute  of  grace  and  com- 
fort, they  are  willed  to  repaire  unto  him  for  both,  who  hath 
firfficient  in  (lore  for  them,  if  they  finde  not  themfelvesto 
be  eafed,  they  know  they  are  burthened ;  if  they  be  not  wa- 
tered, they  feele  themfelves  to  be  thirftie ;  if  they  beleere 
not,  they  arc  allowed,  invited,  encouraged  to  come  unto 
Chrift :  To  ihem  he  calleth,  as  if  he  did  particularly  name 
them,  Come  jet  to  the  waters  and  drinke ;  Come  unto  me, 
and  I  will  refreOi  you.  Why  ttandyee  trembling  as  if 
your  cafe  were  defJ5crate  ?  Yee  defire  heipe, 
and  hee  calleth  *  you,  Bee  of  good 
courage ,  and  come  un- 
to him. 


T:he  end  ofthcfrfi  ^art. 


ipi 


E'ay  55.  V. 
Joh.7.  37. 
Apoc.2J.17. 

"*  Mark.xo.4?. 


The 


I 


1^0.- 


The  Life  of  Faith. 


The fecond  part » 


CHAP.  T. 
ff^h^tit  u  to  live  by  fait  hy  and  how  a  Chrijlian 
Jhouldfiirre  up  kimfetfe 
therennto. 

Any  and  prctious  arc  the  fruits  of 
faith,  whereof  we  have  ule  at  all 
times,  in  every  Mate,  at  every 
turne,  and  in  all  things  that  wc 
goe  about :  which  who  fo  w«^iild 
cn/jy,he  mu  f  learnc  not  oi  ely  to 
have,  but  to  ufe  it  aright  3  to  live 
b  \t  here,  f  edirg  upon  the  (eve- 
rail  promifes  of  mercy  ;  and 
not  onely  to  be  faved  by  it,  when  he  gocth  hence,  Tbc 
Lorri  bimfelfe,  the  Author  and  giver  of  life,  hath  often 
taught  us,  by  his  Prophet  an.i  ApoHle,  That  thejufl  man, 
is  not  only  to  believe  to  Juftification,but  to  live  by  Faith. 
The  worthy  fcrvanrs^f  God,in  all  agcsvire  all  brought  in 
as  a  cloud  rfwitneflesjteftifying this  truth,  that  Thejufi 
Jha/l live  hjjk^Mth.By  faith  Eyjoch rvalkedvcith  CediBy  fairh 


193 


Inhcementsjtt 
live  hy  Faith, 


Hab.2.4. 
Pom  117. 
Gal.3.11. 
Heb.io  38. 
Gen  5.14. 
Hcb  ii.y. 


Y*-'^   *^*ta/r' f. 


19^ 


what:  it  is  to  livehj  Faith, 6ic, 


Gcn.z4.40. 
Gal.  1. 10. 


Col.3.5,4. 


/unanimad,  in 
Be/i.Cont.<yMb 
i.Ca^.ii.not, 
14. 


Vwfeg. 
VerfeiS. 


Cbrijtis  t^s 
fountaine  of 
life, and  juith 
{  the  meane. 

loll  1.4. 
Pfal  ^6.5. 


^yy-aham  ivaH^dhefsre  God.    Pat*l  lived,  if  cvcr  any, 
coniFortab1y,happily,fromthc  tiaic  of  liis  coiiverfion,  to 
thetitneofhisdilTo.ucion  :  but  even  whileft  ,he  livci  in 
theflcOi,  heIiv:dyythethgfAithof9tir  Lord  Iff iis  Chrlfl, 
Wichouc  faith  what  arc  we  but  dead  moules  ?  living  car- 
k Jlesjthat  carrie  about,  and  are  carried  with  dead  foulcs  ? 
The  befi:,  moft  excellent,  and  pretious  part  of  Man  is  de- 
ftitute  of  true  Ufe,till  faith  be  infpired  into  it  from  above, 
whereby  v/e  are  united  u  ito  Chrift  the  fountaine  of  fu- 
pernatural  and  ecernall  life.    The  mDil:  glorious  or  plea- 
fant  life  ot  Ivlan,  without  faith,  is  but  a  vaine  fhidow, 
a  meere  picture,  and  rcfejiblanceoF  life,  or  of  death  ra- 
ther, drowed  in  carnall  delight,full  of  vexation,  and  lea^ 
ding  tow  ifds  everlafting  perdition.    The  bcft  worke  of 
the  regciieratc,  if  it  be  not  animated  and  quickned  by 
lively  faith,  is  but  the  very  outfidc  and  dull  matter  of  a 
good  and  acceptable  worke:  There  is  no  going  right  for- 
ward in  the  way  to  Heaven,  if  faith  be  not  the  guide. 
The  end  of  the    Commmdemfnt  ii  lovs^    oat  of  a  pure 
confcience,  and  faith  unfained.     That  which  is  here  call^^d 
the  precept,  is  not  all  the  la  v,  but  onely  the  precept 
that  Paul  giveth  to  Timothy ,  that  bee  fhould  have  care  to 
:  fee  that  there  were  no  Orange  doctrine  admitted,  neither 
for  forme,nor  matter,neirhcr  for  thin^^s  diredly  contrary 
to  wholfome  doftrine,  nor  for  idle  queftions,  not  tending 
to  build  up  the  people  in  the  love  of  Go  J,  and  of  their 
Neighbour;  as appearcth evidently,  both  by  thcverbc 
before,  whereof  this  word  here  is  derived,  and  by  this 
fame  word  ufcd  afterward  in  this  Chapter,  v  here  the 
fignification  of  it  isreftraincd  unto  the  prefent  niatt':r  of 
exhortatation.  Neverthelcffc,  it  may  well  be  applied  ro 
confirme  thatevery  adt,af  (inccre,  and  unpartiall  obedi- 
ence^ mud.come  from  a  lively ,well-rooted,and  fovcraignc 
faith. 

Chriit  h  the  fountaine,  and  faith  the  meanes  of  life. 
The  power  and  originall.of  life  isintirely  rcfcrvedto  the 
Lord  andTrince  of  life t  the  Light  and  Life  of  men,  the 

Author 


I 


what  ft  k  to  live  by  Faith jScC 


1 95 


II  ' 


Author  ofeternallfah^tion :  But  faith  \5  the  radicall  band 
on  our  part,W'hcrcb\  we  arc  tied  unto  Chrift,  and  live  in 
bim,    Ti  e  bocy  hath  it^  Icule  \^  hich  enHves  it ;    ard  fo 
hath  the  foulc  its  foule  whereby  it  Mvzs,  and  that  is  C^rifi 
the  cfuickyiing  Ipirh.    Take  away  the  fou'e  from  the  body, 
and  earth  becomes  earth  :  fever  Chrift  ard  the  fouIe,what 
is  it  but  a  dead  carrion  ?  The  members  die  if  they  bt.  fepa- 
rated  from  the  Head,  live  fo  long  as  they  be  con/oyned  to 
it:  Chrift  is  to  his  Cburch,and  ever>  living  member  of  it, 
what  the  nattirall  Head  is  to  the  naturall  members.  And  fo 
we  live  primarily  and  properly  by  Chrift,  as  by  thc(bulc 
and  Head  ;  by  faith  fecondarily,as  by  the  Spirits. the  band 
of  foule  and  body ;  or  by  Nerves  and  fit  ewes',  the  ties  of 
the  Head  and  Members     Looke  as  the  leg  or  arm-'  lives 
by  proper  fincwes,  uniting  them  to  the  Head  :  fo  doth 
every  believer  live  in  Chriftby  a  wcl-rooted,foveraigne, 
particular  faith,whcreb'  he  receiveth  Chnft,  and  is  made 
one  with  him-    Thus  faith  he  himfelfe,  ivho  u  the  truth 
A/idthe  /iff,  lam  the  refHrreBiori^    und  the  life  :  hee  that 
beiteveth  inme  though  herveredend, yet  Jhall he  live '^  and, 
I  am  the  bread  of  life  ^  hee  that  beltezeth  in  raee  (haU  never 
hunger  ;  and  againe,  As  the  Fr^thcr  hath  life  in  htmjelfe^ 
fo  hath  hee  given  to  the  Sonne  to  have  life  in  himfelfe. 
Thus  fpeake  the  holy  Scriptures  of  him;  In  it  y»ai  life, 
and  that  life  WM  the  light  of  men  ;  tvhen  Chrifi,  roho  is  our 
Itfe,  pjalla^^eare.     Our  hands  have  handled  the  word  of 
life.  For  the  life  tr as  manife fled,  and  rve  have  feene  it,  and 
beare  witnefe^and/hew  unto  you  that  eternall  Ufe  ,rt>hich  reoi 
■with  the  Fatherland  was  manifeftedur.to  tu.  And  this  is  the 
teftimony  of  thofc  three  heavenly  and  earthly  witneffcs, 
That  O'od  hath  given  to  its  eternall  life,  andthii  life  ii  in  his 
Son\  He  that  hath  the  Son  hath  life,  and  he  that  hath  not  the 
Sonne^hatb  not  life.  Whatfoever  grace  we  want,  it  is  to 
be  received  from  Chrift,  f-Fho  of  God  is  made  unto  tu  wife- 
dome,  rigbteoufnejfe,  fanBifcation,   and  redemption  :  and 
whatfoever  grace  is  in  Chrift  for  us,  it  is  made  ours  by 
faith.  And  fo  we  findc  in  divers  paflages  of  Scripture  that 

O  1  he 


Hcb.5.5, 


1  Cor.xj  4f. 


Ephcf.  1.11,23 
&4.16. 


loh.ii.iy, 

loU.j.iC, 

Ioh.T.4/ 
Col. J, 4. 

I  Joh.i.»,3. 


I  loh.f.iijTi 
I  Cor.i.jp. 


r2.-! 


196 


lohn  i^.f, 
Rom.  1 1. 13. 

Ephcr.3.17. 


Rom.j.Z7. 
Rom.  f.  1 6. 
Epiie(.i.8,9j 
10. 


Hab.i.4. 
Rom.  1. 5. 


I  Joh.f.4, 
Gal.  J.  I. 

Rom. 4. II. 
Hcb.ii.i  J. 

\ 


what  it  is  to  livehy  Faith, Sec, 


be  that  hath  faith  Jjath  the  Sonne  j  anieternall  life  in  him» 
This  is  lively  re prcfcntcd  unto  us  by  the  Parable  of  the 
Vine  and  t  c  branchci ,  that  as  the  branch  receives  all  the 
fap(wherebv  it  lives  and'is  fruitf  uU)  from  the  Vinc,fodo 
we  from  Chrifl:,being  cn^zrafced  into  him. 

Life  then  is  from  Chrift  as  the  Author,  Prince,  and 
Fountaine :  but  we  live  by  faith  as  it  incorporateth  us  in- 
to Chrift,  and  rcceiveth  him  to  dwell  in  our  hearts  So 
that  whatfoever  we  lend  to  faith,  it  redounds  to  the  ho- 
nour of  Chrift.  ImpofTule  it  is,  that  faith  fhould  waxc 
proud  towards  her  Lord,  or  infolent  over  her  fellow  f*:r- 
vants, challenging  afny  thing  of  defert  unto  her  felfc.  No; 
faith  receives  alloPgrace  as  a  poorc  beggar,and  altogether 
excludes  the  hatcFull  law  of  boa  .ing.  ,This  is  the  nature, 
the  place,  the  office  of  faith  :  for  God  hath  ordained  that 
life  iliouid  be  throu  ;h  faith,  that  it  might  be  of  mccrc 
and  rich  grace.  Arid  if  the  end,  and  meanes,  appointed 
of  God  to  lead  thereunto,  do  well  confent,  then  it  cannot 
be,  that  fiiith  fh  'uld  lift  up  her  felfe  a  ainftgrace,  or  in 
any  thing  feeke  her  ownc  praife,  and  not  the  glory  of 
Go  '.  Among  all  the  gifts  of  God  there  is  none  more  ufe- 
full  then  faith  :  others  are  profitable  f  )r  fomc  few  things; 
this  is  for  this  life  and  the  life  to  come,  for  all  parts  and ' ' 
purpofes  of  our  lives,  in  the  ufe  of  it  manifold,  and  rich 
every  manner  of  way  :  But  evermore  it  advanceth  ths 
grace  of  God,  and  caufeth  man  altogether  to  difclaimc 
himfelfe,his  ability,  and  worth.  Faith  fervcth  not  oncly 
to  /aftifie,but  to  make  us  endure  in  all  afflidiions  without 
making  hafte;  The  ju(i  Uveth^  intimeof  his  affii(flions 
by  faith  j  He  that  beUevethj  mal^th  not  hafie.  It  doth 
workc  in  us,and  guide  the  courfe  of  our  obedience ;  Wee 
have  received  grace  and  n/^pofilejhi^  to  the  obedience 
off:iith,  not  oncly  in  bdeeving  the  promiff  of  the 
Gofpell,  but  the  other  part  or  word  of  command.  It 
doth  alfo  prevaile  againft  all  Enemies ;  Tbi4  is  the 
viiior'ie  that  overcommeth  the  rvorldy  even  0 fir  faith  : 
But  in  all  this,  it  leaneth  upon  the  grace  of  God,  loo- 

keth 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Faith, ^C 


kcth  to  his  power,and  trufteth  upon  his  faithfollpromife. 

To  live  by  Paith,  is  by  faith  in  Chrift  to  aflent  and  ad- 
here unto,  and  poflcfle  the  whole.  Word  of  God  as  our 
owncjin  allcftatcs  and  conditions  j  rcfting  quietly  upon 
his  gratious  and  faithfull  prbmifc,  to  receive  from  his 
good  hand  all  ncedfull  bicflings  and  comforts  in  fitted 
icalon;  and  in  all  good  confcience  yeclding  our  fclves  un- 
to his  good  picaiurc  in  fincere,  univerfail,  and  conftant  o- 
bcdierce.  To  live  by  faith  is  not  only  to  believe  in  Chrift 
forfalvation,  or  to  believe  throughout  our  life,  that  we 
fliall  be  faved  in  the  life  to  comejbut  alfo  to  reft  upon  the 
grace  and  free  favour  of  God,  that  we  fhall  have,  what- 
loevcr  is  expedient  to  bring  us  fafely  thither,  given  us 
freely  by  the  Lord  in  this  life,fo  farrc  as  hcknowcth  it 
good  for  us. 

God  hatli  made  promife  of  all  good  things,  more  then 
we  could  askc  or  thinke,  that  no  good  thing  fhali  be 
wanting,  that  whatfoever  becommeth  rtiall  bee  for 
our  good:  all  which  the  Juft  man  poflefl'cth  by  faith, 
and  IS  as  well  faitisfied,  when  in  temptations  and  trials  he 
hathnomeanesofhcipe,  as  if  he  had  all  that  his  heart 
could  defire.  To  the  burdened  God  hath  promifcd  cafe, 
refreOiin^  to  the  thirftic ;  pardon  to  the  penitent,comfort 
to  them  that  mournc,  perfed  peace  to  them  that  waite 
upon  the  Lord ;  afliftance,  comfort,  deliverance  to  ihem 
that  be  tempted ;  prefervation  and  protedion  from  evill, 
with  comfortable  fupplyof  all  bicflings  temporall  and 
fpirituallfo  farrc  as  {hall  be  good  ;  all  thcfc  fjirhembra- 
cc[h,ponelTeth,feedeth  upon,and  fo  rcfteth  contented  and 
comfortcdj^s  if  all  helpe  that  could  be  devifed,  were  pre* 
fent  and  comfort  in/oyed. 

The  word  of  grace  teacheth  hs  to  «leme  HngodUnefe  atfd 
worldly  luJls,andto  live  godly  ^jufily^  andfoberly  in  this  pre- 
fect world :  from  this  word  of  command  faith  cannot  be 
wholly  turned  afide  by  allurement  or  terrour,  but  reftcth 
upon  God  for  ability ,and  fweetly  inclineth  the,heart  with 
delight  and  chearefullneffe  to  follow  after  the  Lord. 

O  3  Thus 


197 


IVhat  it  is  to 
live  by  faith. 


rfal.34.9,ii5. 
Rom  .8. 18, 


Mattb.11,28, 

Ier.ji.54. 
Elay  ae.i. 
Pro.  10. 1 8. 
Zach.«.8. 
I  Cor.  1 0,1  J. 
Pfal  9l.z,j.& 
84.11  . 
Efiy  4j.i. 
Matth  6.3J. 

Titus ».  1 2. 


^■\- 


198 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Faith y^c. 


4.9cc. 


Thus  to  live  by  faith.is  firmcly  to  relic  upon  the  Word 
orCodjin  all  cftatcs  and  conditions,  with  full  purpofe  to 
be  guided  by  it,untill  the  good  things  contained  therein  be 
i  fully  accomplif^ed.  This  is  to  be  feenc  in  that  ho  lourablc 
Heb.ii.T,2j5 ,  company  of  Worthies  fummcd  up  by  the  Apofllc,as  pat- 
I  tcrncs  of  faith ;  who  in  all  ellatcs  and  ftraights  whatfoe- 
I  ver  they  were  brought  into,in  all  temptations  wherewith 
I  they  were  tried,  and  in  all  difficulties  wherein  they  were 
exercifedj  yet  fo  lived  by  faitli,  that  nothing  could  dilmay 
them,  muchlcfTe  overthrow  them.    By  wlwfe  example 
we  may  Icarne,  fo  to  reft  upon  Gods  Word  an^  promifc 
for  all  ncedf ull  helpe,  a(Til'lance,comfoTtjand  deliverance, 
what  danger  or  difficulty  foever  befall  us,  that  we  be  nei- 
ther difmayed  with  terrourjtior  turned  afide  with  world- 
ly allurements,  nor  wearied  with  delayes,  nor  faint  in  the 
combatc. 

Now  for  the  attaining  hereof  tbefc  two  things  arc 
carefully  to  be  performed. 

Firftjto  acquaint  our  felvcs  familiarly  with  the  Word 
of  God,  that  we  might  have  it  in  readinefTe  for  dire(flion 
and  comfort. 

Secondly,  toexercife  faith  aright  in  the  Word  of 
God. 

The  Word  of  God  is  the  ground  ofall  our  faith,  wher- 
by  we  live,bediredled,  maintained,  and  upheld  in  all  our 
trials.  The  promiles  of  mercy  are  as  fo  many  legacies  be- 
queathed us  by  our  heavenly  Father ,and  by  his  So'»ne  Je- 
fusChril^,  in  his  lad  Will  and  Teftaraent:  The  Com- 
wandements  are  fo  many  dircdlions  to  guide  in  the  way 
of  bleflbdnefle,  untill  we  be  full  partakers  of  the  good 
things  promifed  :  It  is  therefore  moft  neceflary  and  be- 
hovefull  for  us  to  fearch  this  Will  and  TeOamcnt  for  all 
fuch  legacies  as  may  concerneus :  andtobinde  this  law 
continually  upon ihs heart,  that  it  might  lead:  keepe 
couolcll  and  comfort  us  as  occafion  requires.  Faith  is  the 
lifeofourfoules ;  the  Word  is  the  ground,  life,  guide, 
and  moderatorof  our  faith.   If  God  fliallleadc  us  into 

the 


JVhitU  to  he 
done, that  we 
might  live  by 
jaith. 

lob  22.tl,»l. 

Pral.35.8. 


I. 


z  Pet.  1.4. 


Pfal.ii^.ioj. 


Ioh.5  jp. 


Pro.S.ai.zs. 


what  it  is  to  live  hy  Faith j^C 


the  darkc  at  any  time,  or  bring  us  into  any  ftraight,  that 
we  fee  no  way  ofekaping,  ormc.nc?of  rcliefc,wiU  it 
not  be  a  great  ftay  and  comfort  to  cur  fcule,  if  tben  w  ec 
can  call  to  rainde  the  good  Word  of  God,  formerly  laid 
upinftore,when  wccanraife  fuch  hope  of  helpe  in  due 
time,  as  may  quiet  and  content  us,  till  we  doe  enjoy  in  ef- 
fe(5l  ihe  good  dcfired  ?  When  the  heart  is  perplexed  with 
thoughts,  diftradcd  with  feares,  and  unfetled  vv  ith  temp- 
tations ;  is  it  not  a  great  rcfrefliing  that  we  can  call  to 
mindethecommandementsof  God,dircfling  what  wee 
mufl:  dee  or  leave  undone,  inftrudi:  gin  the  way  of  peace 
wherein  cur  feet  {hall  never  fiumblc  ?  If  we  would  bee 
ready  and  skilfullpraditioncrs  in  the  great  art  of  living 
by  faith,  we  mult  exercife  ourfelves  in  the  Word  of 
God,  and  get  into  our  hearts  and  memories,  atlcaft,  the 
principal' promiles  and  Commandements,  that  w^e  may 
have  them  in  readinefle  for  dir*  dion  and  comfort  upon  all 
occafions.  Let  the^ordofChriJi  dwell  in  you  richly  in  all 
rvifedeme. 

And  here  it  is  to  be  obferved,  that  bcfides  expreffc 
Commandements  and  dircdt  promifes  generally  offered, 
there  be  fpeciall  promifes  and  Commandements  by  con- 
fequei.t,  which  we  are  to  note  and  make  ufe  of.  As  what- 
foever  God  prcmifeth  to  any  one  of  his  children,  (not  in 
any  fpeciall  or  proper  refpe(^,onIy  concerning  fuch  a  per- 
fon  and  for  fuch  a  time,  but)  as  a  common  favour  be- 
long-ing  to  all  his  children  ;  ihat  we  may^  and  ought  to 
receive  as  a  promife  made  to  usjThus  the  Apoftle  diffwa- 
ding  from  covetoufnefl'e,  applieth  that  promife  to  all  the 
faithfiill,  which  in  fpeciall  was  fpokcnunto  lojiuahylmll 
net  leAve  thee^rtorferfake  f^f ^.Whcfocver  we  find  that  any 
of  Gods  people  have  prayed  for  any  good  thing,  and  have 
bin  hearcijif  it  were  not  by  fpeciall  prerogative  peculiar  to 
them,  we  may  take  it  as  a  promife  to  u>.  I  fought  the  Lord, 
And  he  heard  me :  a»d  delivered  me  from  all  my  feare.  They 
looked  unto  him,  and  rvere  ligktned :  and  their  faees  ypcre  not 
afiamed.Thif  poore  man  cried,and  the  Lord  heard  himy  and 

O   4  faved 


199 


Pral.94.ip, 


Ffal.ii9.i4. 


Col.j,i6. 


Heb.13.5, 


Ffal.j  4.4,^,6. 


200 


what  it  is  to  livibj  F/ii  thj^c. 


Iain»j,i  I. 


pral.9T.n. 
Efay  4j.t. 
z  Cor.,4.8.7. 


PkiLj.i^.17. 
Pro.!. 10. 


2. 

faith. 


favedhimeutof  a^hi^tronlflss.  What  favour  God  hath 
{hewed  unto  any  of  his  children,  according;  to  proi-nife 
and  covenant  oFgrace,  the  i'jme  may  all  that  be  in  cove- 
nant with  hi.n,  cxocSl  aidloik:  for.    For  all  the  hirh- 
fuU  have  the  fame  GoJ  to  be  their  God,  live  mdcr  th* 
fame  covenant,  and  have  intereil  in  the  fame  promifcs  ot 
merry.    Thus  Urn  -s  exhorting  ro  patience  in  trouble,  ' 
alledg  th  the  example  cAIohXee  have  hfard  of  the  pst  if  nee 
9f  ]ob^  And  h4ve  feene  the  end  of  tb;  Lord.    A?  for  cxtra- 
ordi;iary  favours,  or  deliverancrs,  granted  unto  lome 
perf:)t)»,  by  fpeciall  privilcdge,  and  not  by  vertue  of  com- 
mon covenant:  we  cannot  promifeour  felves  thelame^ 
in  particular  from  their  example ;  nor  did  the  Lord  vouch- 
fafc  the  fame  to  tlie  fame  perfons  at  all  times;  but  as  fuch 
peculiar  mercies  imply  a  common  ground  or  rcaibn,  they 
are  unto  us  arguments  of  comfort  and  incouragemcnt. 
Go  1  do!h  not  ordinarily  (end  his  Angels  to  open  the  pri- 
fon  doorcs,norftopthe  mouthesof  Lions,  nor  quench 
the  force  of  the  fire  for  the  prefcrvation  of  his  people:  but 
frora  fuch  extraordinary  examples  we  miy  conclude, 
that  God  will  be  with  us  in  the  fire  and  in  the  v;ateF  to 
deliver  or  comfort  us,  tofuccouror  fupport  us,  that  we 
fliall  not  be  forfaken,  much  lefic  overcome.   Alfo  in  the 
pradice  of  the  fcrvants  of  God,  we  may  learne  our  duty: 
for  whatfocver  they  did  upon  common  grounds  and  rea- 
fons,  pertaining  to  us  no  leflfe  rhcn  unto  them  ;   that  duty 
bclongcthuntousjas  well  as  untothem,and  their  example 
is  for  our  imitation.  Spcciall  Commandcments,  by  pri- 
vilcdge given  to  fome  peculiar  perfons,  belong  not  unto 
them,  who  have  received  no  luch  warrant :  but  if  the 
immediate  ground  be  common,  the  duty  it  fclfc  rcacheth 
unto  us. 

Being  acquainted  with  the  Word,  if  we  would  live 
by  faith,  we  muft  cxcrclfc  it  aright  therein,  and  that  eon- 
fifteth  in  divers  ads. 

Firrt,  Faith  doth  firmely  and  univcrfary  aflcnt  to  the 
whole  Word  of  God,  and  fct  a  dac  price  and  value  upon 


what  is  it  to  live  hy  Faithj^c, 


Vy  as  that  which  con'aincs  the  chicfc  good  of  Man.  The 
Gorpcllistha:pcarleofprice,in  coraparifon  whereof  the 
merchandifc  of  filver  and  gold  are  of  no  worth. 

Secondly,  It  ponders  the  Word  fcrioufly,  and  treafurcs 
itupfafc.  Earthly  men  keepe  the  conveyances  and  aflii- 
ranccs  of  their  Lands  very  circumfpedly,  lay  up  their  bils 
and  bonds,  write  upon  them,  know  when  they  cxpircaiid 
wbar  to  challenge  by  the.n.  The  promifes  ok  God  unto 
the  faithful!  foule,  are  indeed  of  all  afluranccs,  bils  and 
bonds  for  I  IS  livelihood,  maintenance,  prote.ftion,  ani- 
(lance,deliverance,  comfort  and  everlafting  happincfTc  : 
therefore  he  is  careful!  to  view  them  often,  lay  them  up 
fnre,  medirate  upon  their  (bbleneCfc  and  certainty,  and 
caft  with  himfelf  what  profit  and  comfort  they  will  bring 
infittefffeafon, 

Thirdly,  It  preferveth  and  keepeth  in  the  way  of  the 
promifesjit  perfwadeth,incitcth,  and  ftrengthcns  therein. 
All  the  promifes  of  Ciod  arc  free,  his  favours  of  mcere 
grace ;  but  this  free  favour  is  in  fpeciall  bequeathed  unto 
the  penitent,  mceke,  humble,  upright,  thac  walkc  in  the  I 
uadefiled  way,  and  doe  rvone  iniquity  :  and  faith  in  thefe 
promifes  expctfling  the  Lords  heipe  al  lufticient  in  due 
ic2t{o\-)^  carrieth  a  man  forward  in  the  path,  wherein  hce 
fliall  ftndc  reft  and  peace,  and  will  not  be  turned  out  of 
the  ri^ht  way,  then  which  it  acknowledgeth  none  fafe  or 
pleafanr. 

Fourthly,  Tt  pli?s  the  throne  of  grace  with  earncft 
and  continuall  fupplications,  intreacing  helpe  and  fuc- 
cour  according  unto  promifc.  Faith  bearkeneth  what 
the  Lord  fpeaketh,  and  fpeaketh  backe  againe  in  fer- 
vent groancs  and  defircs.  It  hath  the  promifc  of  God, 
and  therefore  is  bold  to  pray,  and  will  not  kcepe  fi- 
lence. 

Fiftly,.It  looketh  up  direftly  unto  God,  his  wife- 
dome,  power,  mercy,  and  faitbfullneflTc  :  If  meanesbee 
prefent,  fai  h  beholdeth  Gods  hand  in  them  :  if  meanes 
be  wanting,  the  eye  is  lifted  up  unto  the  Lord,  who 

can 


201 


Wit.i3.4j,4c 


Pfal.l 


9  II. 


Pi  o.  I 

pni.  1 1 
J. 


.1^. 


i,i 


1  Smxi.- 


■i^ 


202 


Pfal'J.j. 


Pfal.ij.j. 


Meanesto  ftir 
up  our\tlves  to 
live  by  faith, 

I. 
linde  out  thy 
unbdiej  e. 


what  it  i6  to  Uve  hy  Fatthy^c, 


can  provide  meanes,  or  worke  witbout  meanes  and 
againft  mcanes,  andmoft  certainly  will  pertorftie  what 
he  hath  promifeduhen  it  ftiallbe  for  our  good.  C^fy 
voice  JhAlt  thou  heare  in  the  mornings  0  Lord^  in  tht 
morning  vpill  I  orderly  adJreJfe  unto  thee,  and  will  looks 
out. 

Sixtly,  It  refteth  quietly  obferving  the  effeds  of  Gods 
promifes,  and  triumpbeth  before  the  vidory.  I  have 
trfffied  in  thy  mercy  y  my  heart  JIjaU  tejoyce  tnthy  falv4- 
tion.  But  ohhcie  more  at  large  in  the  patticalars  fol- 
lowing. 

Now  for  the  better  ftirring  up  of  our  felves  to  live  by 
faith. 

Firft,  We  muft  find, and  ferret  out  the  Infidelity,  that 

larketn  in  our  bofomes ;  condemne  it,and  make  it  odious. 

Ah,how  is  my  heart  fallen  by  unbeliefs  ?    W  hac  a  mafTe 

of  infidelity  harboureth  in  my  breaft  ?    O  Lord,  I  am 

groflcly  ignorant  of  thy  waies,  douJtfull  of  thy  truth, 

diftruftfull  ofthy  power  and  good  icffejdifobedient  to  thy 

Commandement.    Thou  halt  given  rare  and  excellent 

promifes  in  thy  holy  Word ;  but  I  enquire  not  after  them, 

rejoyeenotinthem,  cleave  not  unto  them  in  truth  and 

ftcdfaftnefre,fettlc  not  mine  heart  upon  chem,  make  them 

not  mine  owne,  kcepe  them  not  Idfe,  that  1  may  know 

what  to  challenge  by  them,  prize  them  not  according  to 

the  worth  and  value  of  the  good  promifcd  Becaufe  by  a 

civill  faith  men  believe  men,  therefore  they  feeketo  get 

their  fecurity,  and  if  they  have  a  man  of  credit  his  word 

for  what  was  dcfperate,they  are  glad;  If  they  have  bonds 

orfpecialtics,  they  boxe  them  up,they  know  when  they 

expire,   what  to  challenge  by  vertue  of  them,  they  will 

do  nothing  that  may  be  prc/udiciall  to  themfclves  therein. 

But  as  for  the  promifes  of  life  made  in  thy  Word,  I  feeke 

them  not,  build  not  upon  them,  hide  them  not  carefully 

in  my  heart,  caft  not  ferioufly  with  my  felfc  what  good  I 

may  affuredly  looke  for  by  vertue  of  them,  kcepe  them 

not  continually  in  thought  to  cut  oft  all  carnall  rcafonings 

and 


what  is  it  to  live  by  Faith,d^c, 


"  i  • ' 


2©5 


and  diftradions,  am  not  wary  to  prevent  what  may  bring 
prc/udice  to  my  foulc  and  ftate.   Thou  thrcatneft  in.  thy 
Word,  butldonotfearc,  amnotcarefull  to  decline  fin. 
Who  is  (o  hardie  as  to  thruft  bis  finger  into  the  fire  ?   But 
I  have  fufFered  my  felfe  often  to  be  carried  afide  with 
luds  through  unbelicfc.    How  many  wicked  mo:ions 
have  I  entertained  ?  what  finfull  paffions  have  I  nouri- 
flicd  ?  how  vainly,ra{h^y,wickedly  have  I  fpoken^though 
I  have  bin  warned  by  thy  W  ord  oFthreatning  to  the  con- 
trary? True  and  righteous  are  thy  preccptSj  according  to 
which  thou  haft  commanded  me  to  walke  :   But  I  have  ! 
followed  the  cuftoraes,  examples,  and  traditions  of  men,  ' 
the  fuggeftions  of  Satan,  and  allurements  of  the  World.  ; 
Lufi;  and  paflion  have  oft  CO  me  betwixt  my  heart  and  thy 
holy  precepts,  whereby  I  am  turned  afide  from  the  ftraite 
way  of  peace.  lean  find  fmall  relifli  and  favour  in  ihc 
Word  of  life,  I  digcft  it  not,  feed  not  upon  it,  hunger  not 
after  it,  am  not  changed  into  the  nature  of  it.I  receive  not 
the  truthjor  it  abides  not  in  me  for  fubftantiall  nourifh- 
menr :  I  bcleevc  ro  further  then  I  fee,feare  no  more  then 
I  feele,fl;art  afide  in  temptation. 

The  Symptomcs  of  it  beliefe  arc  evident.  From  this 
root  fpringeth  that  unmcafur.ble  deadnefle  that  preffeth 
downe.  If  a  man  of  authority  threaten  wich  racke  or 
gibbet,  I  quake  and  feare  :  but  when  I  heare  the  judge- 
ments of  God  denounced  againft  ray  fins,  I  am  fcarcc  mo- 
ved at  all, 

From  this  arifcth  impatience,  murmuring,  difcontcnt, 
unquictnefTe,  when  outward  things  arc  wanting  :  For 
did  the  heart  cleave  faft  unto  God,  it  would  reft  quiet  in 
his  promifcif  all  other  things  were  lacking. 

Selfe-confidence,  rcftinginmsanes,  and  leaning  upon 
them,  as  lands,richcs,friends  d-c-.  are  eftecfls  ot  unbeliefe. 
He  that  rcjoyceth  in  Chrift  Jefus  can  1  ave  no  confidence 
in  theflcfii.  As  we  grow  downe, denying  our  wiledome, 
and  all  ftrcngth  we  can  make  ;  fo  doth  faith  in  our  great 
God  grow  up  J  as  we  fwell  or  be  pufted  up  in  conceit  of 

our ' 


Symptomci  of 
UKiOeliefe. 


Pral.78  15,11 
11. 

NuTi.T^.17. 

ROiTl.lO.?. 

J<-r  lyj. 
Pral.40.4.& 

W.7. 
l^hil.J  J. 


x/- 


204, 


pro.ip.itJ. 


JVhat  it  is  to  live  by  FmhyScc* 


Matth.6.30. 

loh.  i2,43.& 

5.44. 

Matth.14.^1. 
IVlar.8. 16,17. 


our  wifdome  or  ftrergth,  fo  doth  faith  languifh  or  decay. 
So  much  as  the  heart  ftaycth  upon  the  creature,  it  is  by  fin 
with-drawnc  from  the  Creator.  But  my  heart  is  much 
poyfoned  with  feife-fafficiercic  :  I  fccle  my  felfc  apt  to 
leanc  upon  mine  ownc  devices,  to  prefumc  upon  mine 
owne  ftrength,  and  fo  wickedly  to  depart  from  God.  If 
meanes  be  at  hand  I  grow  fecurc  ;  forgctting,that  further 
then  God  doth  fend  forth  his  Word,  they  can  doe  no- 
thing. If  meanes  be  wanting,  I  faint,  or  at  leaft,  am 
greatly  diftradled,  notremembrii-gthatitisallone  with 
God  tofave  with  many  as  with  few,  with  fraall  or  no 
meanes  as  great.  If  I  enjoy  the  things  I  would,  I  thinkc 
much  upon  the  meanes,  afcribe  little  to  Gods  bleffing  : 
my  aftc(?lions  do  workc  more  lively  on  this  or  that  which 
fell  out  (as  men  fpeake)  more  luckily ,then  on  the  bleiTiog 
of  Godjwhich  is  all  in  all.  In  any  matter  of  weight  con^^ 
ccrning  liveli-hood  cr  flate,  I  am  ready  to  plod  what 
friends  I  can  make,  what  meanes  be  prcfenr,what  likeli- 
hoods of  good  fucceffe,  and  here  I  reft,  not  fee  king  to  the 
Lord,  though  all  judgement  come  from  him.  But  if  this 
or  that  requifitc  (in  my  j'udgement)  cannot  be  obtained, 
though  I  be  never  fodiligent,fceRe  never  fo  earneftly,ftill 
Idiftruft  andfufpedl  the  event,  faying  in  heart,  that  it 
cannot  prove  well.  And  when  my  defire  is  accompli- 
shed, the  meanes  arc  ftill  in  mine  eye,  I  thinke  my  fclfe 
indebted  to  fuchor  fuch  friends,  never  able  to  requite 
their  kindneffe  j  when  the  chiefe  caufe,  upon  whom 
all  things  depend,  is  much  forgotten,  not  affedionatc- 
ly  remcmbred.  In  trials  I  am  very  tottering,  and  like 
a  poorc  creeplc,  who  leaneth  upon  his  crutches,  cafily 
brought  to  the  ground,  when  fenfiblc  helpes  are  taken 
away. 

Carnall  delights,  covetoufncffe,  loveofpraife,  double 
diligence  about  earthly  things,  and  cxceflive  care :  thefc 
are  cvill  accidents  of  this  difeafc.  Did  we  poffeffe  the  fpi- 
rituall  comforts  of  the  Word,  the  heart  could  neither  co- 
ver, nor  take  pleafure  in  the  tranfitory  things  of  this  life. 

Did 


W^at  is  it  to  It ve  by  Faith, dec. 


205 


Did  wc  aflurcdly  believe  that  our  Heavenly  Father  will 
provide  for  us,  we  would  not  di/quict  our  felves  with 
troublefome  thoughts  about  Lving,  maintenance,  and 
fucceflc  of  our  labours.  But.ab,  how  is  my  heart  taken 
up  with  diftrafling  cares,  drawnc  away  with  carnall 
picafures,  and  afpiring  defires  after  great  things.  If  riches 
increafe,Irejoyceinthcm  ;  If  troubles  or  croflcscomc 
on,  my  head  h  wfioly  bulled  about  them  j  I  can  keepc  no 
meafure  in  cafting,  difcourfing,  contriving  how  things 
will  go«.  The  many  thoughts  that  I  ("pend  about  thclc 
things  to  no  purpofe,  upon  no  occafion,  doe  more  then 
furficicntly  convince  the  earthly  diftemper  of  my  heart. 

Partiall  obedience,  indulgence  to  any  finne,  fleight- 
neflcintheperformanceof  holy  duties^  and  radinefle  in 
the  undertaking  of  ordinary  works  without  fcare,  reve- 
rence, and  due  confideration,is  the  evill  fruit  of  unbeliefe. 
1  ortliellrengthol-  faith  is  uaiforme,  it  fighteth  againft 
all  finne;  fecdeth  upon  the  dainties  that  God  hath  prepa- 
red for  them  that  love  him,   and  tcacheth  in  naturall  and 
civill  acflions  to  hold  Chrift,  that  his  Spirit  may  guide  us 
in  the  doing  of  them.  But  I  have  becne  too  favourable  to 
boifterous  pafTions,  evill  lulls,  vaine  rovings,  idle  fpee- 
chcs,negledt  of  holy  duties.    I  have  prayed  without  in- 
tention, fervcncic,  or  care  to  fpeed:    I  have  heard  the 
Word,  but  not  attended  unto  it  with  diligence,  not  la- 
boured to  get  it  into  pofTefTion,  nor  to  be  chinged  in- 
to the  nature  of  it.  I  have  fcaftcd  without  fcare  or  thank- 
fulneflc  ;  I  have  laid  medovvne  tofleepeand  rifen  againe, 
not  minding  the  promifc  ci  God;  who  giveth  flt-epe  to 
bis  beloved,  not  acknowledging  him  u/ho  is  my  life, 
and  the  length  of  my  daics,   nor  fcari.ig  the  grin  that 
i%  fet  for  mec  in  every  creature  and  bufmeffc  of  thisi 
life. 

Whatfhall  I  fay?  OLord,  I  have  finned  againft  thy 
goodrcffe, power, mercy, and trutH ;  agiiuft  the  Media-, 
tion  and  blood  of  Chrift.  He  t'jat  hltevc  nvt  inGadj 
m^kes  him  et  lUr^  then  which  what  can  be  more  rcproch- 

!u!l? 


1  lohn  y.xo. 


206 


Tit.i.iy. 
Efay  7.9. 
Num.20.  II. 
Luk^i,20. 


TVhat  it  is  to  Iwe  hy  Faith, Sec. 


1 


Heb..lo  38jj9 


fiill.>  He  that  rcfteth  not  upon  Cbrift,  makcth  his  bloud 
ot  nonceftedl,  then  which  what  is  more  abominable? 
To  fearc  the  threats  of  Man,  to  reft  on  his  Worcl,to  obey 
his  Cortimandements,  when  the  wiU  and  plcafurc  of 
God  is  ncglecfled ;  wbatisthif,  but  to  rob  Gcd  of  his 
glory,  and  fctup  Maninhisroome  or  deed  ?  If  a  great 
Man  fhould  tbre 'tcp,  would  I  not  be  carefull  to  decline 

\  his  wtatb  ?  Shall  my  Gtd  threaten,  an^  I  be  fccure  and 
carcleffe.^If  1  have  a  mans  word  or  bond  that  is  of  worth, 

5 1  write  upon  the  matter  as  if  I  had  it :  Shall  I  not  joy- 
fully reft  in  the  word,  feale  and  oath  of  my  God  ?  if  a 
Man  of  great  place  {hould  be  asked  a  paw  re,  and  not  cre- 
dited on  his  word,  he  would  take  it  inx:vill  part:  what  a 

j  fhame  is  it,  that  I  fliould  not  believe  God  further  then  I 
have  his  caution  ?  The  fervants  of  Noblemen  attend  on 
their  Lords  plcafiare  at  an  Inch,  come  at  their  call,  goe  at 
their  command,  do  every  thing  cxidlly  that  is  given  them 
in  charge  :  W  hat  wretchedncfle  is  this  in  me,  that  I  have 
obeyed  the  Lord  by  the  ha'ves,  beenefleighty  in  his  wor- 
fhip,moft  negligent  where  all  diligence  is  no  more  then 
duty,  moft  praile-worthy .    As  I  have  difhonoured  God, 
fo  I  have  huri  miiie  ownc  foule.   If  it  were  not  for  unbe- 
liefe,nothing  could  harme  me;  this  doth  all  the  mifchicfe: 
for  it  re/cfteth the  medicines,  which  taken,  would  cure 
all  maladies;  and  pullcth  off  Gods  plaifters,  which  lying 
on  would  falve  our  mifcrics :  it  defilcth  our  beft  workcs, 
doubleththc  bitternefTeofcroffes,  puUeth  downc  many 
judgements  upon  us,diijnableth  m  the  combate  againft  Sa-  ' 
than,isthenurfe  offpirttuallidlencflc,  andhindreth  the 
fweetnefle  of  all  holy  duties.    It  were  juft  with  thee, 
Dearc  Father,  to  caft  me  off  for  ever,  and  give  me  over 
to  the  vanity   of   mine  unbelieving   heart.      I  have 
drawne  backe  from  thee  by  infidelity,  cleaving  to  the  j 
luftsoftheflefh  and  allurements  of  the  Woild,  trufting 
in  vaine devices;  and  thou  migbteft  j'uftly  forfake  me 
utterly  for  this  mine  hypocriticall  ftarting  afidc  from  thy 
tcftimonies.    O  Lord,  I  am  not  more  fiill  of  infidelity  by 
nature,  j 


Wht  is  it  to  Itve  bj  F/tithjdcc. 


2©7 


nature,  then  of  ray  felfc  unable  to  remove  it :  unto  thee 
thercfore,do  I  life  up  my  foule  ;  O  tame  in  ine  the  fierce- 
nefle  of  infidelity,  and  reach  me  to  believe  as  thou  haft 
commanded:  then /hall  I  cleave  unto  thee  infeparably, 
waite  confidently  on  thy  falvation,and  ferve  thee  chearc* 
fully  as  long  as  I  live.  Thus  are  we  to  finde  our,  and  make 
iijfidclity  odious. 

Secondly,  We  muft  labour  to  fee  the  neceflity,and  pre- 
cioufiiefTe  of  faith  j  and  thele  feene  will  make   a  man 
hold  hard,  ere  he  part  with  it.    A  man  that  hath  a  great 
charge,  his  whole  ftate  about  him,  will  as  foonelofehis 
lifsy  as  part  with  his  treafurc.    O  f  what  excellency  and 
life  is  this  grace  of  faith,  which  fubduet. :  palTions,  over- 
commeth  allurements,  maketh  things,  impoffiblc  to  the 
flelli,  eafie  and  delightfome ;  inableth  to  ftand  faft  when 
we  arc  buffered  by  Satan,  lifceth  up  the  head  amidll  all 
thefurgcs  oftemptation,remainethvidorioui  in  all  com- 
bats, raifeth  us  up  when  we  are  laid  along,  and  our  wea-  , 
pons  beaten  on  our  Heads ;  kniticth  the  heart  fafl  to  the  | 
heavenly  Commandements,  quickcneth  in  deadnc(re,3nd 
holdeth  the  Lord  faft  when  he  leadcth  us  into  the  darke. 
Who  would  not  prefcrre'thc  cuftodie  and  incrca  c  of  fuch 
a  grace  before  life  it  felfc  ?  Nay.  what  is  our  life  without 
it  ?  If  faith  live  in  us,  we  live  bleflcdly,  whatlbcver  mife- 
ry  compaffeth  us  about;  if  faith  decay ,we  die;if  it  die,wc 
perifh. 

Thirdly, We  muft  confider  whom  we  truft,  and  medi- 
tate on  the  grounds  of  faith  (to  wit)  the  grace,  power, 
goodneflV,  truth,  and  unchangcablenefle  of  God  :  for  this 
wilinrength:n  belief e.We  mull:  confider  the  promifes  of 
God,  that  we  may  fee  what  his  good  will  and  plejfure 
is,  what  a  Fatherly  care  ofour  welfare  he  hath,  and  not 
onely  how  able  but  how  willing  alfo  he  is  tohelpe  and 
fuccour  us ;  what  promifes  he  hach  made,  and  how  faith- 
full  he  is  i\i^  performance,  for  his  owne  names  fake,and  of 
free  undefervcd  love.  The  Mother  of  unbeliefe  is  igno- 
rance of  God;   his  faithfuUnelTe,  mcrcv,  and  power* 

Thofe  J 


fly  and  prect 
oufncjfe  of 
faith. 


I.  Meditate  OM 
the  grounds  of 
Fciuh, 


a   / 


208 


Pfal.9.10 

X  Tim  I, II. 
Hcb.ii.!  I. 
R.om.i}  21. 


4.  Feeling' 

tpegfinejfe  of 
faith  loolie  •» 
Chnfi. 

Heb.i2.i«i. 

y  Fray  for  the 
ff  ir  it  Oj  faith. 


what  it  is  to  live  bj  Fatth,SiC, 


Thofethat  know  thee,  wtii  trfffi  in  thee.  This  cO'ifirmcd 
7afi^,  Abraham,  Sarah  in  tf  c  fai^h.  Ikjtow  whom  I  have 
believed^  and  that  he  is  ah U  to  l^epe  that  I havt  committed 
unto  himM/itiil  that  day.  He  is  faithful  I  who  hath  promt  ed^ 
and  able  alfo  to  performe.  The  frcc  pr  iinifes  of  the  Lord 
are  all  c  rtaine,  his  Comtmndcments  right  and  good,  the  | 
recompence  of  reward  ineQimably  to  dc  valued  above 
thoufandsof  gold  and  filver :  Truft  t  crefo'e  in  the  Lord, 
O  my  loule,  and  follow  hard  aft-  r  him.Thou  haft  his  free  • 
promifejwho  never  fai:cd,v\'hohath  promised  more  then 
poffi  ly  thou  couldft  askc  or  thinke,  who  hath  done 
more  for  thcc  ther)  ever  he  promilcd,  who  is  good  and 
bountfiill  to  trie  wicked  and  ungodly  :  thou  doeft  his 
worke,  who  is  able,  and  aflurcdiy  will  beare  thcc 
out ;  thc-c  Is  a  Crownc  of  glory  propofed  unto  thcc 
above  all  conceit  of  merit :  Sir kc  faft  unto  his  Word, 
and  fufJer  r  othing  to  divide  thee  from  it,  Reft  upon  his 
promifcs,  though  he  feemc  to  kill  thee ;  cleave  UiUo  his 
ftatutes.  though  the  flcfh  luft,  the  World  allure, 
the  Divell  tempt  by  flatteries  or  ihreatnmgs  to  the 
contrary. 

Fourthly,  When  wc  fceic  our  faith  wake,  wemuft 
looks  up  to  Chrift,  the  beginner  and  finifhsr  of  faith 
in  us.  A  fainting  body  will  tafte  fome  thing  that  is  cor- 
dial and  reftorative;  and  a  fainting  foule  muft  baitc  it 
felfc  with  looking  to  Jcfus,who  is  our  cordiall  and  refto- 
rativc. 

Fiftly,  Faith  is  a  grace  that  is  given  from  above,  and 
commeth  downc  from  the  Father  of  lights,  unto 
whom  we  muft  fly  by  Fervent  prayer,  humbly  begging, 
that  he  wouli  by  his  Spirit  both  rcvealc  unt©  us,  what 
be  thofc  prctious  promifcs,  which  he  hath  made  unto 
his  people,  and  give  us  wifcdomc  rightly  to  /udgc  of 
them,  and  firmely  to  receive  them  in  every  cftate ;  and 
above  all,  to  mo/e  our  hearts  fo  to  believe  them,  that  wc 
may  affurc  our  felves  of  all  nredtuli  helpe  in  due  time, 
feeing  God  allfufficient  and  faithfoll  hath  promiled  it, 

and 


\  J- 


touching  thefnmifes  off  or  don  and  forgi'ucneJfe,^Ch 

and  waitc  upon  bim  in  the  way  of  his  Commandements. 
Mercifull  Father,  it  is  my  finccre  defirejand  unfjaincd  rcfo- 
liition  to  draw  nigh  unto  thecjand  put  my  truft  in  thy  mer- 
cies for  evermore.    But  of  my  felfc  1  have  no  ability  to 
ftand  in  faith,  or  to  follow  hard  after  thy  Commande- 
ments ;  I  am  full  of  doubtirgSjWhcn  I  c&n  fee  no  mcanes 
to  put  me  in  hope  of  helpe,  and  ready  to  finke  downe  in 
defpaire:  upon  every  fmall  occafion  lamready  to  dagger 
and  flip  afide.   Take  pittic  upon  me,  O  Lord,  for  tVy 
mercy  fake,  for  I  flie  unto  thee  for  helpe.  Thou  haft  com- 
manded mc  to  believe,  hold  me  by  thy  right  hand  that  I 
fiirinke  not ;  reveale  thy  promifes  unto  my  underftan- 
ding,  givemee  a  found  /iidgement,  eftablifti  me  in  the 
faith  more  and  more,  unite  my  heart  clofc  unro  thee, 
tlat  all  the  darts  of  the  Di veil  may  fall  off,  and  not  bee 
able  to  wound  my  confcience.  Thou  haft  given  me  to  fee 
my  weakeneffe  in  faith,  and  to  bewaile  it ;  to  fee  the  ne- 
celTity  and  excellent  ufe  of  fai: h,and  to  defire  it :  give  me 
alfo  ftedfaftly  to  believe,  according  to  the  riches  of  thy 
grace,that  I  may  glorific  thy  name. 


CHAP.  II. 

what  it  u  to  live  hj  faith  iu  p Articular  touching  the 

promifes  of  pardon  andforgiveneffe^  and 

how  tojiirre  up  our f elves 

thereunto. 

THE  ufe  offaith,  which  is  as  large  as  the  Word  of 
God,  muft  be  diftinguiflied  according  to  the  parts 
and  feverall  branches  of  it,  promifes,  Commandements, 
threatnings.  By  promifes  underftand  all  thofe  declarati- 
ons of  Gods  will,  wherein  he  fignifies  in  the  GofpcU 
what  good  he  will  freely  beftow.  And  thefe  be  either 
Spirituall  or  Temporall ;  concerning  this  life,or  the  life 

P  to 


2  09 


JJ-^iat  the  pro- 
mifes bCiOnd 
the  kjnies  ther- 
of. 


210 


what  it  u  t9  live  if y  Faith  in  f  articular 


to  come;  ohhings  fimply  neccffary  to  falvation,  or  of 
things  good  in  themfelves,  but  not  al  waics  good  for  us : 
■  all  which  arc  rcccivcdjpoflicflcd,  and  in  joyed  by  faith,  ac- 
cording as  they  be  promifcd  ot  God,eithcr  with,or  with- 
out limitation. 

Amongft  fpirituall  promifes  abfolutely  neccffary  ,with- 
out  which  there  can  be  no  falvation,  the  firft  and  chiefc  is 
concerning  pardon  or  forgiveneffe  of  (innes  and  Juftifica- 
Thepromifeof  tion.  God  of  his  rich  grace  and  mercy  in  Jefus  Chrift 
foriivmft  of  i  ^oth  make  offer  of  free  and  full  forgiveneffe  of  all  (innes 
to  every  burdened,  thirflie  and  penitent  foule.    Let  the 
Ypickrd  forfake  his  vaj,    And  the    unrighteom   man    his 
thoughts:  and  let  him  retarrte  unto  the  Lord^  and  he  rcill 
have  mercy  upon  him,  and  to  our  God  for  he  -will  abundantly 
pardon.     Returne  thoH  hacke-Jliding  Ifrael,  faith  the  Lord, 
and  I  roil  I  not  caufe  mine  anger  to  fall  ttponjou:  for  I  am 
mercifitll,[a'ith  the  Lord^and  Iwil'  not  keepe  mine  anger  for 
fverj  will  c  lean fe  them  from  all  their  iniquity  ^rfheretj  they 
have  finned  againji  me,  and  I  rvill  pardon  all  their  iniquities 
whereby  they  have  ftnned^andwhereby  they  have  tranfgre^ed 
Againfi  me. 

This  promifc  is  made  of  free  snd  undcferved  mercy, 
not  for  any  merit  that  is,or  poflibly  could  be  in  us.    /, 
even  I  am  hee  that  blotteth  out  thy  tranfgreffions  for  mine 
o-wne  fake  and  rvilt  not  remember  thy  (innes  J  mil  love  them 
freely,  for  mine  anger  is  turned  away  from  him  who  it  a  God 
like  unto  theer  that  pardoneth  iniijaity  and  pajfeth   by  the 
tranfgreffion  of  the  remnant  of  his  heritage  ?he  retaineth  mt 
his  anger  for  ever  J   becaufe  he  delighteth  in  mercy.    T  will 
bemercifullto  their  unrighteoufnejfe,  and  their  finnes  and 
their  iniquities  will  I  remember  no  more.     Be  mercifully  O 
Lord^  unto  thy  people  Ifrael^whom  thou  haft- re'^eemed.^MX. 
'  when  we  hearc  of  grace,wc  muft  remember  Chriftjin  and 
through  chrifi  through  whom  God  is  gratious  unto  us.  Chrift  is  the 
oncly.  I  Lambe  of  gody  which  tak^th  away  the  finnes  of  the  world: 

Joh.i.ap.       .  ^j^j  ^j^jj  nxzzt  benefit  of  forgiveneffe  offinnc  is  plentiful- 
ly proclaimed  unto  us  miferable  finners,  in  and  through 
'  him. 


fins. 

Deut.jo.  1,1. 

iRcg.8.35. 


Icr.j.ii. 


Thii  promt  fe  ii 

free. 

JOiy  45.25. 

&  44.12. 

Hof.14.4. 

Mich.7.18. 

Hcb.8.11. 
Jer.31.j4. 
Dcut.ai.8. 
Num. 14. 18. 
Tet  obtained 


touching  the fromifes  of  pardon  dndforgivenejfej^c, 

him.  Thtu  it  u  vpritten,Atid  thus  it  behoved  Chrifl  to [ufer^ 
and  to  rife  a  f  nine  from  the  dead  the  third  day  ;  and  that  re- 
pentance an.i  Remijfion  of  finnes  fhould  bee  preached  a- 
mongalinationtjje ginning  at  Ieru[alem.  'Bee  it  hnowne 
unto  yoti  therefore^  C^Icn  and  brethren^  that  through 
this  Ol-fan,  (meaning  Chrift)  is  preached  unto  jou  the 
forgivene^e  cf  ftnnes .  Now  then  ire  are  Ambajfadors  fcr 
Chrifl,  At  though  God  did  befeech  you  by  tis  ;  we  pray  you 
in  Chrifls  fieedf  bee  yee  reconeiled  to  Qod,  Hereunto 
agrecth  that  invitation  of  our  Saviour  •  Come  unto  me  ali 
yee  that  Labour^  and  are  heavie  laden ^  and  I  will  give  you 
reft. 

This  promifc  of  grace  is  reccived^poUcffed  and  en/oycd 
by  faith  alone,but  by  an  operative  and  lively  faith.  To  him 
give  all  the  Prophets  rvitnefe,  that  through  his  Name,who 
foever  believeth  in  him^fljall receive  rtmijfton  ofjtn^es.And 
by  him  althat  believe  arejnflijied  from  al  things jfrem  tvhich 
yre  could  not  be  juflifed  by  the  Law  of  Moles.  Though 
faith  be  accompanied  with  other  graces,  yetManh'veth 
by  it  alonc,notby  it  and  other  parts  of  t;racc  as  /  ynt  fup- 
portersjin  as  much  as  by  it  alone  he  tiufts  in  Gods  mercy 
offered  in  Chrift,  vvholy  relying  on  it,  not  partly  on 
mercy,  partly  on  righteouineflc  inherent ;  tVr  arejujtified 
f}-ecly  by  his grace^  throu^^h  the  redemption  that  is  in  lrfu4 
Ckrijl:  whom  Cjodhath  fet  forth  to  be  a  propitiation  through 
faith  in  hts  blood^to  kclare  hii  righteoufne^efor  the  remiffien 
of  finnes  that  are  pafi.  The  Scripture  fore  feeing  that  God 
would juft.f:  the  Heathen  through  faith  ^  preached  before  the 
Go[peh  unto  Abraham,  faying.  In  thee  fhall  all  nations 
be  bteffed.  And  thus  thc  Lord  hath  ordained  for  divers 
reafons. 

Firft,  this  promifc  is  of  faith,  that  it  might  bee  of 
free  grace,  which  cannot  ftand  with  the  dignity  of 
workes./f  »V  bee  by  grace  ^  then  is  it  no  more  ofworks-.other- 
wife  grace  is  ue  more  grace.  "But  if  it  be  ofwork^s,  then  Is  it 
no  more  grace,  etherwife  worke  u  no  more  worke.  faith 
anfwcrs  thc    promifc,   and  receives    thc   pardon  of 

P  2  grace 


2  11 


f 


Ads  IJ.38. 
aCor.y.io. 
Mat.  II.  1 3. 


And  received 
aadpojfejfed 
byfaith. 
Ads  1 0.4 J. 
Adi  n.;9. 
^nd  }y  it  alone 
Rom. 1. 17. 
Gal.2.i6«c 
j.»i,a4. 


Rom.J.24,»5, 


Gal.}. 8. 
Gen.  11. J.       { 
Gen.15.6. 


I. 

Rom,  4.1^, 

Rom,  I  I.e. 


-z-'^' 


2IX 


what  it  is  to  live  hy  Fdith  in  ^artiatUr 


2, 


3« 


grace  as  a  poore  bcggcr,  utterly  denying  all  worthiaeffe 
m  the  fub/e^t ;  whereas  other  graces,  had  they  bcene 
afllgnedto  this  office,  would  have  challenged  fomething 
to  themfclves. 

Secondly,  it  is  of  faith  that  it  might  be  ft^dfaft  and  fure 
to  all  the  feed :  why  fo  ?  becaufe  the  promife  is  ofgracc. 
I  Faith  and  grace  doe  fweetly  confent,    mutually  uphold 
I  each  other.   Faith  Icaneth  upon  grace  alone :   and  grace 
or  mercy  is  promifcd  freely,  that  we  might  believe  ;  and 
vouchfafed  to  him  that  dath  believe  and  accept  it.  With- 
out faith  therefore  the  promife  doth  fall.    And  if  the 
promife  of  remiffion  of  finnes  did  depend  upon  any 
worthineffe  in  us  to  receive  it,  wee  fhould  not  oncly 
waver  and  be  uncertaine,  but  even  u'tcrly  dcfpaire  of 
cverfpecding. 

Thirdly,  that  oncly  is  the  true  manner  of  Juf^ification, 
which  £huts  forth  all  boafting  in  the  dignity  of  our 
workes.  But  faith  excludes  all  boafting  in  our  felves,  and 


Rom.j.»7>*^' 


teach«th  us  to  glory  in  the  Lord  our   righteoufneflc. 


Rofn.4.t,]. 


jt  is  neceffary 


where  ii  boating  then  ?  it  is  excluded.  By  rvljAt  Lave  ?  Of 
work's  ?  Najy  but  bj  the  Lavr  of  fnith.  Therefore  we  con- 
clude, that  a  ma»  isjf^flified  by  fnith,  without  the  deeds  of 
theLAvf.  For  if  Abrzhiim  were jH^ified  by  workes,  he  hath 
whereof  to  glory  but  not  before  God,  For  what  faith  the 
ScriptureyhbTahitn  believed  Gad,  and  it  was  counted unta 
him  for  righteoufne^e. 

As  God  invites  us  to  receive  the  promife  of  pardon 
fo /ee^e  pWow  I  offered  in  the  Gofpell,  foitisneccffary  that  we  embrace 
)fpn  hj/jaith..  I  jt-  by  ^  \[^Q\y  faith.  For  in  our  felres  we  be  (infull  and  cur- 
!  fcd,no  way  able  to  make  any  fatisfadion,  whereby  wee 
'  might  be  delivered,  and  remiflion  which  is  of  grace,  can 
'  be  obtained  by  no  other  meane3,but  onely  by  faith  in  Je- 
Rom.  4.5,^,7.  fus  Chri{\.To  him  that  workfth  not^  but  believethenhim 
Vm  j.».  I.         thatjftfiifieth  the  ungodly,  his  faith  is  counted  for  righteonf- 
nejfe  3  even  as  David  *ilfi  defer ibeth  the  blefednep  of  the 
Ol'laMy  Hnto  whom  (jod  imputeth  righteoufneffe  without 
I  workes  3  Sayings  Blejjed  are  they  whofe  iniquities  are  ft>r gi- 
ven 


touching  the  from  fes  of  far  dm  and  forginjenejfey^c, 

vert,  and whofe  /tunes  Mre  covered;  'Ble^edis thet^fant» 
whom  the  Lord  vf  ill  not  iw^uteJiriM,  Faith  gocth  dircdtly 
unto  Chrifi:,  that  by  him  wc  might  be  Juftificd,  2nd  cm- 
braceththc  promises  of  God  concerning  Juftification, 
which  is  the  manner  by  which  alone  God  hath  ordained 
to  juftific  us.  No  man  can  be  heirt  according  to  the  hope 
of eternall  lifCjUnlefle  he  be  juftificd  from  fin  by  the  free 
grace  of  God  :  for  fins,  not  blotted  out  by  the  free  par- 
don of  grace,  feparate  betwixt  God  and  us,  and  hide  his 
face  from  n^.Not  hy  rvorkes  of  ri^teoM/nfjff, which  we  have 
done,  ht*t  according  to  hu  mercy  he  favedus^^c.  That  ^eing 
jufiified'by  hu grace ^we  (houldhe  made  heires  according  to  the 
hope  of  eternall  glory. ^MX.  no  pardon  isobtained,unle{re  the 
promifc  of  pardon  be  receive!  by  faith.  Faith  in  the  pro- 
mifcs  of  mercy,  that  wc  might  be  acquitted  from  finne, 
and  accepted  as  Juft  and  rigbteous,  doth  commend  and 
maintaine  the  glory  of  Gods  grace  intirc,  and  in  this  re- 
fpc(5l:  alfo  it  is  the  niorr  neccflary.  As  a  penitent  malefa- 
(^or,if  be  were  to  plcade  his  caufe  before  the  Prince  him- 
ftlfc,  w^ould  notftand  upon  tcrmcs  of  innocencie  or  pre- 
fent  integrity,  becaufe  he  had  his  pardon  under  fealc,  fee- 
ing that  was  given  him  to  pleade  tor  mercy,  not  for/u- 
fticc:  fo  the  faithful!  foulc  relyeth  upon  the  free  mercy  of 
God,and  promifc  of  pardmprodaim'H  indefinitely  to  all 
burdened  and  penitent  finners,  and  fcaled  to  every  belee- 
ver  in  particular  by  the  plerigcs  of  the  Spirit ;  not  upon 
thofe  fan(5lified  graces  which  arc  given  unto  him,  that  he 
might  bee  qualified  and  fitted  to  plead  for  grace  and 
mercy. 

The  a  As  of  Faith  concerning  this  promifc  of  forgive- 
ncfle  be  divers. 

Firft,  it  generally  belicvcth  the  promifc  truCjand  there- 
by difcerncs,  that  fin  is  pardonable  through  grace.  The 
knowledge  of  this,  that  our  finners  may  bee  pardoned,  or 
that  there  is  mercy  with  the  Lord  to  cover  fin,is  a  workc 
of  faith.  For  whatfoever  cannot  bee  co-iccivcd  or  found 
out  by  fence  or  reafon,  that  is  manifefted  by  revelation, 

P  3  anu 


213 


Gal.j.16,  & 

J.XZ. 


Tit.3.5,7- 


The  off stf  faith 
about  promifes 
of  pardon. 

Pfal.ijo.4, 
L11IC15.18. 


^'-2^' 


214 


what  it  if  to  live  If y  Faith  infarttcdar 


I  Pet. 1. 13. 

Bphef.  I   8,9. 


and  affcntcd  unto  or  judged  true  and  certains  hy  faith, or 
clfc  it  rcmaincs  as  a  rayilcry  unknownc.  \Vh;n  the  Apo- 
Hcb.ii.i. ''      ^^^  dctincs,/v«»>^  to  he  thf  evidsnce  of  things  not  feene  ;  doth 
he  not  intiiTiite,  that  things  unfcc.ic  to  fenfe  or  naturall 
reafon,  are  difcovcred  and  made  evident  onely  by  faith  ? 
j  But  that  God  will  pardon  iniquity,  tranfgrcflion  and  fin, 
is  a  truth  that  can  never  be  comprehended  by  the  light  of 
nature  :  flcfli  and  bloud  hath  not  revealed  it  unto  us.  Su- 
per natur  all  truths  which  exceed  all  humane  capacity,can- 
not  be  difccrncd  or  received  by  any  power  of  narure:  But 
that  God  will  be  mercifull  to  our  finnes,  is  a  truth  fupcr- 
naturall,  hidden  from  the  Angels  themfelveSjUntill  it  was 
revealed  in  the  Gofpell.  Who  hath  knowne  the  Minde  of 
God,  or  beene  acquainted  with  the  myfteriesof  his  wifc- 
Ilay  40.13,14.;  Jqjjj^p  Inthedayesoffecurity,whi!elhn=n(lccpe  in  fin, 
j  without  all  fence  of  evlll,  or  knowledge  of  Gods  Juftice, 
i  it  is  an  eafie  matter  to  fay,  God  is  mercifull,  Chrift  died 
for  fianers  :  But  when  the  confcience  is  awakened  with 
the  terrors  of  Gods  wrath,  and  the  fearcfu'.l  fight  of  fin ; 
the  experience  both  ot  wicked  men,  and  of  the  Saints 
of  God  can  teftifie,  that  it  is  a  difficult  thing  to  looke 
beyond  the  cloud  of  Juftice,  and,  contrary  to  the  naturall 
fentence  of  confcience,  comminations  ©t  the  Law,  and 
prefent  feeling,  to  bclieve,that  there  is  forgivencfle  with 
God. 
2,        \     Secondly,  faith  ftirrcth  up  earncft  defires  and  longings 
to  be  made  partakers  of  this  mercy  of  God,  and  to  be  rc- 
freflied  with  his  gracious  and  free  farour.    All  holy  and 
fervent  defires  are  both  kindled  and  nourifhcd  by  it.  As  onr 
aficnt  to  the  Divine  and  heavenly  promifes  is  more  or  Icfle 
!  firme5certaine,ab(olutc  &  evidcntjfo  are  our  defires  more 
1  ;  or  lefle  fier  ic,confl:ant,unfatiable,yea  in  refped  of  hca  ven- 

'  ly  things  unquenchable  :  As  faith  languiflaetf-.thefe  faint: 
as  faith  encreafeth,  thefe  gather  ftrength.    And  no  mar- 
3ob.4.io,       I  ^^^^'  ^^^  appetite  folio  weth  knowledge,  and  defire  h  an- 
fwerable  to  that  ccrtaine  and  cleare  judgemsnt,  that  wc 
have  of  the  ncccITity,and  worth,  value  and  dignity  of  the 

ob/ed: 


Geo. 4.1?. 

Matth.z7.?. 
PraI.77.3,7jS. 


touching  iheprcmfcsoffarden  and fcrgi*venejje,d)ic 

objcd:  apprcherded.  New  faith  dilcovcrcth  both  the  nc- 
ccflity  ard  ( xccUcrcy  of  the  peed,  certainly  contained  in 
the  w  ord  of  proinife,  (w  hich  ad  of  faith  is  Hgnifcd  by 
the  opening  or  picrcirg  of  the  care)  ard  fcricuily  medi- 
tarcth  upon  the  frcrlar  benefits  offered  thcicin,  and 
fo  raifeth  the  heart  unccfanily  to  hunger  and  thirft  after 
them. 

A  d  thcfc  dcfrcs  wil  be  the  greater  and  more  conftant, 
ihr  more  faith  is  (xcicife.i  in  the  meditation  of  the  good- 
nefl'e^frecncrrc,  andccrtaintieof  tbefc  proinifes.   Many 
things  are  negleded  which  arc  mo!l  prerion?,  oncly  be- 
caufcthe  value  of  them  lyeth  hid,  or  is  not  apparent,  or 
theprrjudiceoffcndblf,  but  deccivable  experience  doth 
ovcrfway.  No  marveiic  then,  if  the  pardon  of  fin  bee 
ncgle^Scd, though  the  I  cncHt  be  probably  knownc,whcn 
itisbutfleightly  thoughcLijson,  fupetficially  looked  into, 
cuftotnc  having  inured  the  Mindc  by  long  pradice  toths 
purfuitc  of  cawthly  delights  or  profit«,whf  rewith  it  is  be- 
lottcd.  But  With  the  true  bchevcr  it  farcth  much  better, 
for  hrefeeth  how  happy  it  Oiould  bee  with  him,  if  his 
finnes  were  covered,  and  his  foulceafed  of  the  burden 
of  them,  ("how  ever  it  fare  with  him  in  matters  of  this 
world)  and  withal),  bee  pondereth  the  truth  and  faith- 
fuUncfteofthcpromifc  made  of  meere  grace,  whereby 
theheartisftirredup,  to  dcfireand  long  after  this  blcf- 
fing,  above  all  good  that  can  be  imagined.    And  yet,  fuch 
is  our  corruption,  wc  mud:  oft  breathe  our  fclves  in  the 
meditation  of  thefe  things,  or  elfc  wee  fliall  find€  our 
cfteeme  of  pardon  to  decay,  and  our  dcfirc  to  grow  cold 
anddulL 

Thirdly,  It  drawcth  ui  forward  to  feekc  mercy  of 
God.  The  wife  Merchant  firft  difcovcrs  the  pearle  of 
price,  and  then  feekcthto  get  pofleflion  of  it.  The  dc- 
firc of  a  believer  is  not  a  dead  or  fluggifh  wiflij  Oh,  that 
myfinnc*  were  pardoned,  when  he c  never  flirrcth  up 
himfelfe  to  receive  the  promifc :  But  it  is  a  deliberate  de- 
firc,  of  a  benefit  knowncpoifibly  to  be  attaincd,attcnded 

P  4  with 


215 


3- 
Mat  15.41,4^. 


^-z, 


2l5 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  infarticidAr 


Matth.13.44. 


with  much  com^ort,and  freely  promifeii  by  him  that  can- 
not lie  which  is  ever  accompanied  with  proportionable 
care  to  get  and  poffeffc  the  blefling  defiredjFaith  will  not 
fuffcr  a  m>ii  to  (Smoother  or  conceale  his  defires,  nor  de- ' 
fires  themfelves  to  die  :  but  it  prcferveth  and  kindleth 
defires,  and  conftraincth  with  an  holy  violence  to  lay 
them  open  before  the  Lord. 

I  Thus  by  faith  a  man  commcth  freely  to  renounce  his  ti- 
tle and  intcrcft  in  the  world,  and  to  part  with  any  thing, 
that  might  hinder  mercy.  The  wife  Merchant  having 
found  the  fearle  of  price,  for  joy  thereof  goeth  dndfelleth  ak 
thitthehath;  not  as  if  he  could  merit  pardon,  but  that  he 
might  be  capable  of  pardon,  and  make  a  faithfull  plea  for 
mercy. 

To  this  end  alfo  hee  humbleth  himfelfc,  before  the 
throne  of  graccin  true  and  unfained  confenion  of  his.fins^ 
freely  judging  and  condemning  himfelfe  before  God,with 
a  broken  and  contrite  heart,    /  w//  declare  mine  im/juitie, 
Iwill  yeforrieformyjtnne.    So  the  prodigall  fonnecom- 
ming  home  CO  his  Father,  dothbewailc  his  former  lewd- 
ne^CfC^yingJ have Jiftnedagntirtlt  Heaven  and  before  thee, 
Pharaoh  and  Sauly  bciag  evidently  convinced  of  fin,  may 
be  conftrained  in  confcience  to  make  fomc  confclfion  to 
■Bxod.9.27.   1  nien,  ^  I  have  finned  thu  time^  andthe  Lord  is  righteopu  :  I 
1  Sam.t6,  xi.\  have  -played  the  foole^  and  erred  exceedingly.  ^  t^habhum- 
«>iRegzi.i9'  bleth  himfelfe  before  God,  and  putteth  on  fackecloth, 
in  hope  to  prevent  the  temporaU  cvill,  denounced  againft 
him  and  his  houfd :   But  the  confelFion  of  true  and  unfai- 
ned faith  is  free  and  voluntary,  in  hope  of  free  pardon  and 
forgivcneffc.  Tcmporarie  believers  may  make  confeffion 
of  their  fins  withfome  griefe  and  foirow,  but  as  they 
confeffe  their  fins,  fo  they  believe :  their  confcflion  is 
\  maimed,  and  their  faith  fuperficiall ;  they  renounce  not 
I  their  intcrefl:  in  the  world,  which  infcrrcs  the  willing 
[choice  of  fomc  inferiour  good,betore  the  favour  and  love 
of  God,  and  their  bcliefe  of  the  promifcs  is  (Tballow,  and 
fubordinatc  to  their  Jiafe  and  earthly  paflfions. But  the  con- 

feflion 


Pfal.ja.T. 
Pfal.38.18. 


Luk.i$.i8. 


touching  thepromifes  of  pardon  mdforgivemffe.^c. 


\\ 


21J 


fcffion  of  faith  unfaincdjis  hearty  and  fincerc,  pyned  wiih 
a  true  detcftation  of  all  fin,  as  that  which  Iiach,  and 
would  make  reparation  betwixt  God  and  him,  if  it  bee 
not  renounced  by  him,  and  pardoned  of  God.    And  to 
them  that  confefTc  their  fins  in  this  manner  is  the  pro- 
mifcmade;  Ifweecortfe^e  oarjinnes,  (jodisfn'thjuU^  and 
jufiy  tsforgtve  us  our  finnes,  tind  t»  cleanfe  us  fotn  all  un- 
righteoufne^e.  Hee  that  covereth  hit finnes fhall  not  profper-, 
Ifttt  who fo  confe^eth  andforfakith  them  Jhall  have  mercy. 
Only  acknowledge  thine  inicjuity  that  thou  hafl  trafifgrejfed 
againfi  the  Lord  thy  God.  If  vee  would  judge  our  felveSy 
wee  Pjould not  be  judged.    Jfaid^  I  will  confejfe  my  tranf- 
grefpons  unto  the  Lord,  and  thou  forgavefl  the  iniquity  of 
my  Jtnne.  Which  is  mDft  lively  to  be  fccnc  ia  the  para- 
ble of  the  prodigall  before  mentioned,  where  the  Father 
\  Crefembling  God)is  faid,to  have  met  his  loft  fonne  before 
I  he  came  athim,and  to  have  embraced  and  kiflcd  him,  af- 
I  tcrhewasrefolvedinhimfclfeto  acknowledge  and  con-  j 
fcflc  his  faults. 

As  faith  teacheth  the  poore  finner  to  humble  himfe'.f; 
inunfaincd  confeffionof  his  manifold  offences,  foitftir- 
reth  &  encourageth  him  to  powre  out  his  foulc  in  earneft 
and  hearty  prayer  unto  God,  for  pardon  and  forgive nefTc, 
through  the  mediation  of  Jelus  Chrift.  Thus  he  is  taught 
of  God,  Tak^  with  you  wor^s  and  tume  to  the  Lord,  fay 
unto  himyTakf  awaj  all  iniquity, andreceive  tu  gracioufy  : 
fo  will  we  render  the  calves  of  our  Ips.  B  3th  thefe  may  be 
fcene  in  the  poore  Publican,  who  durfl  not  hft  up  his  eyes  to 
Heavfn^  butfmote  himfelfe  upon  the  breafi,  fayinir,  God 
bee  mercifull  to  me  afnner.  And  fo  the  Church  prayeth. 
O  remember  not  ^igainfl  hs  former  iniquities :  let  thy  ten- 
der  mercies  fpeedtly  prevent  m.  This  prayer  of  faith  \% 
not  prefentcd  before  God,  in  aflurancc  that  his  fins  be  al- 
r'>'ady  pardoned,  but  to  obtaine  pardon  of  the  rich  mercy 
of  God, by  and  through  the  merits  of  lefus  Chrift.  And  the 
promife  is  to  him  that  prayeth  unfainedly,  that  he  fhali 
bee  forgiven  :  If  my  people  ^  which  are  called  by  my  Name, 

Jhall 


1  loll, r. 9, 


I  Cor.ii.j 


1. 


Luk,  I  j.io. 


Hof.  14.2. 


Luk.i8,ij'. 


Pral.79.8, 
JocIa.i7. 


2l8 


Mat.  7. 7. 

loci  2.JZ. 

Rom.io.ij, 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  in  f  articular 


Joh.rMfjl6. 
AS^%  15.11. 
Rom. 10  4, 
Gal,  1.1 6. 
Ephcri.i  J. 
Phil.  3.9. 


5. 


lob  Ip.lJ. 

rfal.?z.5. 

Ifa.j8.17. 

Pfal/^j.?. 

Gal.z.zo, 

1  J0h.5.i4, 


fl>AU  humble  thtntjelves  and  fray,  and  Jeckc  my  face,  and 
turtle  from  their  vetckf^  rvaies  :  then  wiU  Ihearejrom  Hea. 
ven,  ard  ■will forgive  thetrjinne.  Aske^and  it  Jhall  be  given 
yen:  fecke  and  yee  jhall  finde.  fVhofoever  Jhall  cull  upon  the 
name  of  the  Lord,  fliaU  bee  delivered,  viz..  from  fin  and 
death. 

Fourthly,  Faith  rcccivcth  the  protrife  of  mercy  made 
in  Chrift,  and  embraceth  or  rcftcth  upon  the  Ipcciall, 
free  mercy  of  God  in  Chrift  for  pardon  :  And  hereby  wc 
arc  juftified,  that  is,  of  finners  made  Juft  and  Righteous, 
not  by  infufion  of  holincfie,  but  by  free  condonation  and 
accep:ation  of  grace.  Chrift  is  every  where  made  the 
thing,  which  faith  embraceth  to  falvation,  and  whom  it 
lookethunto  and  rcfpe<n:etb,  as  it  makes  us  righteous  in 
the  fight  of  God :  and  faith /uftifyeth,  not  by  anyvcitue 
or  dignity  of  it  owne,  but  as  it  receivcth  and  reftethon 
Chrift  <7«r  Ri^hteoHfnejfe,  our  Saviour ,  our  Redeemer 
iromftnne  and  deaths  It  is  the  good  pleasure  of  God  re- 
vealed in  theGofpell;  to  pardon  and  juftifie  them  from 
all  their  finncs,  that  believe  in  Chrift ;  and  faith  /uflifi- 
echj  asitleaneth  up3n  him,  to  receive  fpcciall  mercy 
through  him,  or  which  is  all  one,  to  obta-ine  forgivc- 
neflc  of  fins  of  the  mcerc  and  rich  grace  of  God  through 
him ;  And  this  is  the  moft  for  mall  ad  of  faith  as  jufti- 
fyiuL'. 

Fifthly,  It  doth  certifie  of  pardon  granted  and  fcalcd 
unto  us :  It  doth  obtaine, 'receive,  and  affure  of  forgive- 
iiefl'c  in  particular.  I  know  that  my  Redeemer  iiveth  ;  Then 
forgavefi  the  iniquity  ofmyfinne  ;  Thou  hait  cajl  all  my  fins 
behind  thy  backf  •  As  for  our  trAnfgrefftons  thoufhalt  purge 
them  arvay :  Chrift  hath  loved mee,  and  given  himfelfe  for 
me.  We  know  that  we  are  paged  from  death  unto  life,  becaufe 
we  love  the  brethre».'lhcCc:iYc  divine  condufions  of  a  live- 
ly faith.  But  this  perfwafion  or  aflurance,  that  our  fins 
are  already  pardoned;is  not  an  a<ft  of  faith  /lilify  ing,  as  it 
/uftifyctbjbutan  ad  of  faith  following  /uftification,  a  pri- 
vilcdge  granted  of  grace  to  a  finner  now  fct  in  the  ftate  of ' 
grace,! 


touching  the  promifes  ofp/trdm  andfirgivemjfey^c. 

grace,  or  an  a(^  of  experience  in  a  finncr  now  /uflified  by 
faith.Forgivencffc  of  lins  in  and  through  Chrift  is  offered 
in  the  Gofpelljito  every  burdened  and  weary  loule  that 
will  receive  ir,as  the  ground  of  faith;  vonchfafed  to  every 
one  that  belicvcth  ;  but  pardon  of  fin  is  apprehended, 
as  already  granted,  when  we  come  to  be  allured  that  we 
doe  believe.Faith  \\\  order  of  nature  is  precedent  to  Jufti- 
fication,  but  Juftification  it  felfe  gocth  before  the  fence 
thereofi  As  faith  obtainech  and  rtrceiveth  the  promifc  of 
fpeciall  mercy,  it  doth  not  find  us  Juft  when  we  begin  to 
believe,  but  makcth  us  Juft  by  embracing  the  Righteouf- 
neflc  of  Chrift ;  as  it  certifieth  and  affureth  of  favour,  it 
doth  not  actively  Juftifie,  but  fiiidcth  the  thing  done  aU 
ready. 

Faith  affiireth  of  the  pardon  of  finne  by  a  double  a<!?l:. 
Firft,  it  layeth hold  upon  the  gencrall  promifes  made  to 
Bch'evcrSjltich  as  thcfe;  Heethat  yelievtth  (hall  be  faved : 
"By  faith  every  one  that  belitveth  isjujlifisd ;  He  that  belit- 
veth  hatheverUflhg  ///^.Secondly, it  concludes  undoubted- 
ly from  them,  That  he  believing  is  already  received  into 
favour,  and  hath  obtamcd  reinilli  )n  of  finnes.   Now  be- 
twixt thefctwo  comes  the  tcftimony  of  the  renewed 
Confcience,workfng  upon  the  foule  by  Tefle(5lion,wherc- 
hy  the  true  Believer  is  made  privie  to  his  owne  e(late,and 
afiured  that  he  doth  believe.  The  whole  is  collected  thus ; 
Hcthatbclievethin  Chrift  is  already  Juflified,  or  hath 
received  pardon  and  forgivcncfle  :   This  is  the  voice  of 
faith,  groundiwg  it  felfe  upon  the  exprefl'c  teftimony  of 
God  fpeaking  in  holy  Scripture.    Biu  I  believe:  This  \s 
the  witneflc  of  the  renewed  coiifcience,  enlightened  by 
the  Spirit,and  dircdcd  by  the  Word  ;  whereby  the  Belie- 
ver comes  to  know  what  God  hath  wrought  in  him.  For 
no  man  can  be  faid  to  Believe  th  it  he  doth  Believe ;    but 
he  believe- h  the  promifes  by  f  >itb,  and  knoweth  himfeife 
to  be  a  Believer,  by  the  vvitncfle  of  his  Co  ifcience  re- 
newed by  the  Spirit.    The  conclafion  of  fait'^,  grounded 
Upon  the  former  propofitions,  the  one  exprefied,ia  Scrip- 
ture, 


119 


Ioh.5,18. 
Ads  I  J. 19. 
lohn  i.i6. 


1  Cor.i.si. 


-IJI^- 


220 


WhAt  it  is  to  Itve  hy  Faith  in  f  articular 


Three  preroga- 
tives that  ac- 
company confi- 
dent ajurance: 

I. 
*  Efay  59.2. 
Phil.4.7. 


Ioh.i4.t7. 
Ephcf.i.i6,i7 
Rom.  J.  I. 


Pfal.  5^.4. 
Roin.8.35,j4. 


2. 


turc,  the  other  evident  by  the  witncfie  of  Confcicncc,  »s. 
Therefore  my  finnes  are  i  orgiven,or  I  fliall  be  laved.Thc 
order  of  climbing  to  this  aflurance,is  the  rather  to  be  mar- 
ked, that  wenke  Chriftians,  who  want  the  comfortable 
fence  and  feeling  of  this  mercy,  might  learnetofecke  it 
in  due  order  as  the  way  is  laid  downc  before  them  in 
the  Word  ;  andnotdeje<5lthemfelves  without  caufe,  as 
though  they  were  utterly  deftitutc  of  faith  in  Chrift, 
becaufe  they  want  the  fence  of  this  aflurance,  and  fo 
could  doe  nothing  acceptable,  becaufe  it  is  not  done  in 
faith;  nortircthemfelvesin  aprepofterous  courfc,  not 
knowing  where  tolsy  the  foundation  or  beginne  their 
worke. 

Three  prerogatives  do  ever  accompany  this  co,  fident 
afTurance  of  our  Reconciliation  with  God. 

Firft.Peace  with  God,  or  ftsble  tranquillity  andfwcetc 
calmncfTc  of  Minde ;  Sinnc  *  had  broken  off  our  friend- 
fl»ip  and  peace  with  God  i  but  being  juftificd  b ,  faith  wc 
havcrcmiHion  of  finnes,  and  fo  the  caufe  of  enmity  being 
taken  away,  peace  is  reftorcd,  Eveti  thdt  peace  of  God 
which  psfrth  uMucr^andinf^,  and  is  in  ftead  of  a  guard  to 
keefe  our  hearts  and  minds  in  Chnf}:  -  that  go  den  LegaclC 
wbichChrift  bequeathed  unio  his  Difciples,  when  hee  | 
left  the  World-  Peace  I  Uavemthyottymy  peace  I  give  un- 
to you,  Bein£  jffjfifiediy  faith,  rve  have  peace  with  God, 
through  out  Lord  lefut  Chrifi,    And  from  this  peace  be- 
gins lively  co  f  lation  a^ainft  the  temptati  ns  of  finne, 
Satan,and  the  World :    from  the  fe;  cc  hereof  tPC  faith- 
full  foule  may  triumph  with  David,  The  Lord  if  with  me, 
I  will  not  feare  what  man  can  doe  unto  mee ;  and  with 
the  Apoftle,  trhofhall  lay  any  thing  to  the  charge  of  gods 
EleEi  ?  It  ia  god  that  jujtijieth :  who  is  hee  that  cendem- 
Heth  f 

Secondly,Fr€Cfe^>  'flcuntothf  throne  of  grace  with 
boldneffe  and  confidence,  Chriftasit  were  leading  us  by 
the  hand,  into  the  prcfence  of  God,  that  we  might  enjoy 
hi*  grace  in  prefcnce.    When  wc  were  enemies  we  fled 

(torn 


tmchin^  the^romifes  offiirdon  mdforgtvemjfc^c, 

from  the  throne  of  God:  but  being  reconciled  by  his 
gracCjwe  have  free  accefle  to  come  into  hisprcfenccj  to 
aske  what  we  will,  with  aflurancc  it  fball  be  done  uito 
us.  "Bj  vohom^fe.  Chrift)  a/fowc  have  aceefe  bjfaith^  into 
thii  ^race  wherein  wefland. 

Thirdly,  loy  in  the  Ho'y  Ghoft  unf^eAkcAhle  and glori. 
otu^  which  doth  fo  lift  the  hithfull  above  the  Heavens, 
that  being  cheared  with  the  fence  of  Gods  favour,    and 
contented  with  Chrift  alone,  they  dcfpifcthe  world  and 
the  bafc  things  therein.  We  rejoyue  in  hope  ef  the  glory  tf 
I  God,  ^Andnotonelj  foj  hut  Tve  glory  in  tribulation  alfo. 
Thu  j  D<«z/»Vprayed,  U^Uk,e  me  to  hearejoy  andgUdnefe  • 
RefloreHntomethejoy  ofthyfalvation.  All  thefc  rare  and 
pretious  privilcdges  fpring  from  faith :  for  withoutfaith  no 
fnan  canplenfe  God,  by  faith  we  have  peace  with  God,  by 
ftith  we  come  unto  him,by  faith  we  rcjoyce  in  him.  The 
Godof  Hope  fill  yet*  rrith  all  joy  and  peace  in  beleeving.   In 
yvhomrvee  have  hldnefe  and  accejjey  with  confidence  ^y  the 
faith  of  him. 

But  this  faith,  which  highly  advanccth  the  Believer  to 
boaft  in  God  all  the  day  lon-j,  lifceth  not  up  it  felfe,  wax- 
eth  not  proud  towards  the  Lord.  Free  rcmiilion,  fweet 
peace,  afliirance  of  Gods  favour,  familiar  and  heavenly 
communion  with  him,  and  whatfoever  rich  token  of  fpe.  j 
ciailandiotirc  good  will  God  beftowcth,  thcfe  cannot 
puff,  up,  but  abafc  the  Believer  inhimfelfc  t  the  higher 
he  is  exalted  by  the  free  mercy  of  God,the  lower  he  hum- 
blethhimrclfe  before  God.  I  ivill  efiablifh  my  covenant 
T»ith  thee,  and  thou  [halt  know  that  I  am  the  Lord:    That 
thou  majefl  remember^  and  be  confounded,   and  never  open 
thy  mouth  ahy  more  '.  becanfe  of  thy  Jhame^   when  lampa- 
etfied toward  thee y  for  ahhat  thou  hafi  done,  faith  the  Lord 

Sixtly,  By  faith  wee  continue  in  this  bleflcd  date,  in 
fvvcct  peace  &  fellow{bip  with  God.  We  can  never  take 
the  eye  from  Chrift,  but  immediately  the  remembrance 
of  former  finnes  doth  trouble  and  vexe  the  confcience  : 

and 


221 


Bplur.i.iS. 


I  Pet.  1.8, 


Rom. 


J.ijJ. 


Praln.8,,; 
Hcb.  1 1.8. 


Phil.  1. 1  J. 
Rom.  1  J,  J  J, 
Ephcf.^.ij. 


'2^r2- 


222 


Rom.4.f. 


Rom.3,18. 


Whdt  it  is  to  live  bj  Fdth  in  farticul/ir 


Pfal.jl.ljJ. 
Rom.  4. 4, 5  A 


and  daily  weaknelTcs  and  infirmities  will  breed  nofmall 
difturbance,  if  we  doc  not  fuc  forth  a  daily  pardon. Thcr- 
fore  as  we  believe  to  Juftification,  lb  mnft  we  continue  in 
believing  for  the  atfluall  pardon  of  our  daily  trffpafles. 
The  Apoftle  laith,   Godjufiifieih  the  ungodly :  but  by  un- 
godly in  that  fentcncc  of  Pau/,  he  is  mea.  t,who  doth  not 
bring  his  workes  or  merits,  nor  looke  to  his  graces,  qua- 
lities, ads,  or  vertucs  in  the  matter  of  Juftification  :  but 
doth  bewaile  his  impiety,  and  flie  to  the  throne  of  grace 
for  pardon,  being  convinced  of  guiltineffc.  Thus  t^^ra- 
ham  was  all  his  time  comprehended  in  this  Catalogue, 
and  is  made  by  the  Apoftlc,  as  aperpetusU,  ioaprinci- 
pall  inftance  ofthatfinallrefolution  :    Therefore  we  conm 
elude,  that  a  man  is  juflifed  by  faith  without  the  workes 
of  the  Law»  por  if  believing  in  him  that  juftifieth  the 
ungodly,  was  imputed  for  righteoufneffeunto  Ahrahamy 
after  he  had  becne  for  along  time  more  righ'cous  then 
the  ordinary  fort  of  Gods  Saints  or  chofen,  ^Abraham 
all  this  while  unfainedly  believed  himfcUe  to  be  a  finncr, 
no  way  juftifiedinhimfelfc,  but  feekingto  be  juUified  by 
him,  who  if  he  fhew  not  mercy  to  finners,  whileft  they 
beefinners,  sll  mankind  fiiould  peri Qi  utterly.  The  drift 
and  fcope  of  Panl  in  tlie  third  and  fourth  to  the  Romanes 
isonelythis :  That  although  men  may  be  truly  /ul  and 
holy  in  refpedl  of  others,  and  rich  in  all  manner  of  works, 
as  zAbraham  was  thus  farrc  knowne  and  approved,  not 
by  men  only, but  by  God:yet  when  they  appcare  before 
Gods  TribunalljWhobeftknowes  as  well  the  imperfedli- 
on,  as  the  truth  of  their  integritie,  they  ftill  acknow- 
ledge themfclvesto  bee  unprofitable  fervants,  alwaycs 
IpTzy ingy  Lord,  forjrive  ta  onr  Jlnnes,  aud  bee  mercifttll  to 
our  offences.  So  that  all  men,  even  the  moft  holy,  are  fin- 
ners in  themfelves,and  in  the  fight  of  God,in  the  Apoftlc* 
fence,  and  are/uftifiedby  grace,  not  of  debt,  after  the  in- 
fufionofrupernaturallholinefirc.  The  fincere  and  upright 
man,««  whofe  fpirit  there  is  no  gmle,  is  juftificd,  not  bc- 
caufeofhisfincerity,  but  bccaufe  the  Lord  imputeth  not 

that 


I  tmching  the^romifes  of  pardon  andfoygivene(fe,  &  c. 

that  fin  unto  him,  which  he  ftill  nnfainedly  acknowled- 
geth  to  be  in  him,  continually  praying,  Lord^  enter  not  in- 
tojujgementvDtththyfervant-,  alwaies  confcfling,  Lord^ 
inthyjtght  no pPj  living  can  bee  jnflijifdy  to  wit,  other- 
wifc  then  by  not  cntring  into  judgement,  or  by  non-im- 
putation of  his  fins.  And  faith  that  layeth  hold  upoj]  the 
promife  ofmercy  offered  in  Chrift,  caufeth  a  man  every 
day  to  humble  himfelfe  for  fin,  and  to  fcekc  pardon  by 
earnefl:  prayer,  every  day  it  receivcth  and  feedcth  upon 
thepromifcsmadcin  Chrift,  andfo  a  (fur  eth  that  his  fins 
are  done  away  as  a  mift. 

AndthusaChriftian  maylive  by  faith  for  manydaies, 
or  rather  all  the  daies  of  his  life,  in  fweet  peace  and  com- 
munion with  Godjif  he  will  learnc  to  maintaine,  and  take 
paincs  to  ufc  his  faith  aright.    It  is  to  be  lamented  that  a- 
(  mongft  Chriflians,  who  defirc  to  live  honeftly  and  kcepc 
a  good  confcicnce,  fo  few  know,fo  many  negled  the  or- 
dinary ufe  and  improvement  of  their  faith  ;  as  if  it  ferved 
oncly  to  give  them  comfort  in  the  remilTion  of  fins  at  their 
firft  convcrfioiijandthcn  had  finiihed  all  it  fhould  or  could 
doe^  except  till  they  fall  into  fome  notable  decay,  i£  not 
great  offence,  or  be  plunged  into  deepe  doubts,  or  be  cx- 
ercifed  with  fome  great  afllicT-ions :    whereas  the  daily 
ufe  and  improvement  of  faith  for  the  continuance  and  m' 
creafe  ofaflurance  of  forgivenefie,  peacc,acctfl'e  unto  the 
throne  ofgrace,joy,andc0nimunion  with  God,  isasne- 
ceflary,  (hould  be  as  conftant,  as  in  the  ufe  of  Fire  and 
Water,  of  the  Light,of  Meate  or  Drinke,  or  whatfoever 
\s  more  ordinary  for  the  comfort  ot  the  Body.   Serves 
faith  for  entrance  and  beginnings  .and  not  forcontinuance, 
progrcfie,and  cncreafings  ?  Is  faith  the  brce-ler  and  brin- 
ger  forth  of  Joy  and  Peace,  and  not  the  Nurle  and  fofler. 
Mother  of  them,  cherifiiing  and  feeding  them,  till  we 
come  to  a  full  and  per  fed  ^g'e  in  Chrift  ?    All  fruits,  the 
necrcr  they  come  toripe^eflcjthefvvcetci  r^ey  be:  and  fo 
is  the  fruit  of  faith  fvveeter  in  the  earc  then  in  the  blade.  If 
the  fence  of  pardon  be  plcafant  and  deli^hif^me  at  Cr.z 

firO", 


22J 


Pfal.i 


4?  2. 


224 


Pfal.  139.17, 
18.&36.7. 


zTim.^.^. 


W/m  ft  is  to  live  i?y  Faith  in  f  articular 


firft,muft  it  not  ircreafc,  as  ftrength  of  faith  and  fpirituall 
1  acquaintance  with  God  incrcafcth  ? 

Is  it  not  eaficr  to  prcfcrve  peace,thcn  to  recover  out  of 
dutTipca  and  difireflcs  ?  Every  day  to  reckon  with  oar 
foulcs,  and  get  our  debts  cancclled,then  to  doe  it  now  and 
then,^vhcnwe  have  run  farre  behind  hand,  not  knowing 
which  way  to  turne  our  felves  ?  Fire  orce  kindled  is  kept 
burning  with  lefTe  paines,  then  being  oft  quenched,it  can 
be  kindled.Thc  labour  of  maintaining  health  is  muchlcflc, 
then  the  toyle  of  recovering  out  of  (icknefle.  Let  us  then 
learne  to  make  ufe  of  our  faith  every  day  ;  As  every  day 
to  humble  our  fclves  before  the  throne  ofgrace,and  beggc 
the  pardon  and  forgivcneHe  of  our  finnes ;  every  day  to 
looke  unto  the  grounds  of  comfort,and  meditate  thereup- 
on, that  we  may  finde  joy  and  fwcetnede  therein  ;  every 
day  to  renew  our  faith  in  believing  the  pardon  ofluch 
particular  offences,  as  we  have  cfpied  in  our  felves  that 
day,and  confefled  before  the  Lord,with  fighs  and  groanes 
for  mercy.  Let  us  thinke  ferioufly  with  our  fclves,  how 
excellent  a  thing  it  is  to  be  in  league  of  an>ity  with  God  j 
how  blefied  and  plcafant  a  (late  to  be  freed  from  the  fearc 
of  death  and  Hell;how  rich  and  comfortable  a  thing  to  be 
Hcire  of  Glory.  Let  us  often  ftirre  up  our  felves  to  con- 
verfe  with  Chriftj  the  better  we  know  him,the  more  de- 
light and  contentment  we  (hall  take  in  fcllowfhip  and 
communion  with  him. 

This  is  to  live  by  faith,  and  toftirrc  up  the  grace  that 
God  hath  given  us.  This  is  to  maintaine  faith,that  it  may 
ferve  u?.  Fire  in  the  embers  glowcs  nor,  heats  not  the 
houfe  :  Faith  in  the  heart  not  ufed,  doth  neither  increafe, 
nor  comfort.  A  man  may  well  be  faid  not  to  have  the 
wealthjhc  ufeth  not  for  his  benefit :  furely  he  wants  the 
benefit  of  faith,who  exercifeth  it  not. Vfe  limbes,and  have 
lirabes.  The  beauty  and  benefit,yea,the  very  increafe  and 
perfetflion  of  all  gifts,vertucs,and  graces  confifleth  in  ufe, 
and  a(5lion.  Exercife  perfe(5feth  underftandingand  memo- 
ry ;  ftrengthens  the  difpofition  of  the  foulc,increafcth  vi- 
^gour. 


r\ 


touching  thefromfesofpardon  and  forgiv€neJfe,^c, 


gour,  bcgettcth  promptneffc  :  the  more  thou  docft,  the 
more  thou  maift.Thc  oftner  the  liberal  man  gives  Almes, 
and  doth  good'turncs,  the  more  his  liberality  growcs  and 
iliincs.Let  any  man  diligently  and  throughly  improve  his 
faith,  and  great  will  be  his  faith,  and  great  the  joy  it  will 
bting  in. 

It  is  our  faul  c,  if  we  fuffcr  Satan,  with  light  tempta- 
tionSjOrdinarily  to  interrupt  our  fpirituall  mirth,or  to  de- 
taine  us  in  dumps  and  pcntiveneflc.  Did  we  but  carefully 
maintaine  our  faith,  it  would  doc  away  all  difturbance 
which  is  within  us  againft  our  fclvcs,  and  tame  the  rebel- 
lion ofluft  againft  the  fpirit  of  the  minde  renewed',  it 
would  fecure  us  againft  the  power  of  enemies  inward  or 
outward,  that  they  ihould  not  be  able  to  hurt  us,  much 
lefTe  to  prevailc  againft  us,  and  repreffe  or  vanquish  all 
perturbations,  which  fpirituall  vvickcdnefles,  unbcliefe, 
want  of  godly  contentation,  defcfts  in  our  condition, 
might occafion  :  ic  would  expell  unquietnefle,  keepc  un- 
der palTions,  allay  feares  and  griefes,  and  calmc  the  boi- 
fteroHs  ftormSf^f  difcontent.  Let  us  kecpe  our  faith,  and 
it  will  kecpe  ©ur  Joy :  It  will  kcepe  it  an  even  ever-flow- 
ing current,  without  ebbe  and  flow,  cloudes  and  ccclip- 
£cs :  let  us  incrcafe  our  faith,  it  will  increafe  our  joy. 

But  to  what  meafurc  of  Joy  may  a  growne  Chriftian  at- 
taine,ifhebecarefulltopreferveandftirrc  up  his  faith? 
It  is  a  fmall  thing  for  him  to  come  to  an  ordinary  pitch  of 
chcarefullneffe.  Except  Ui^-jiDyiexcecds  the  mirth  of  a 
worlilinginthequalityandquantity  ofit,  Ifhis  mirth  be 
not  a  fweeter,  and  more  ravifliing-mirth,  of  an  higher 
kinde,  of  a  more  pure  nature,  of  a  more  conftant  tenure, 
then  any  carnalll  mans  what-ever;hedif{)aragcs  faith.The 
Chrillians  j'oy,  u  joy  un^eakenbU  and  glorionSy  joy  in  the 
Holy  C^o/^janotber  manner  of  Joy,  then  ever  entred  into 
the  heart  of  a  naturall  man.  So  is  that  Text  to  be  conftru- 
zdi^eye  hath  notfeent^&c.  not  chiefly  of  the  j'oyes  of  Hea- 
ven, which  here  the  fpirituall  man  himfelfe  cannot  tell 
what  they  fliall  be,  but  of, the  GofpcU  j'oy,  of  the  wine 
Ol  and 


22J 


Tt  Hfhat  vtea' 

fure  tfjoy  a 
Clrifiianmay 
attaine. 


I  PcM.8. 
Rom.i4.i7» 

I  Cor.2.9,10. 


v■^^^ 


226 

Calu-in  i  C»r» 
1.9.  lun. par. 
llbipag.^u 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Fdth  in  f  Articular 


^ 


John  1  (>.x%, 
James  i.s. 


Pfal.j^.yj^j? 


I  and  f atlings, already  prepared,   and  now  revealed  to  the 
Believer  by  the  Spirit :  which  if  the  carnall  man  fcorne 
and  fcoffe  at,  it  is  bccaufe  he  cannot  comprehend  it.  It  is 
j  a  more  pure  and  conftant  joy, which  needs  not  the  fupport 
of  earthly  delights  :  his  joy  is  within,,  he  j'oycs  in  the  fa- 
vour of  God,  which  is  unchaigcablc.    It  bclcem^s  not  a 
Chriftian  to  bee  mcrrie  in  one  cftate,   dampifh  in  ano- 
therjas  if  their  j'oy  depended  upon  their  outward  conditi- 
on. No,no,tbc  favour  of  God  alone  is  fufficient  to  uphold 
a  good  mans  j'oy.  Tour  joy  no  mart  taksth  fiomy  oh. fVe  glory 
in  tribuUtion  alfo :  And  great  realbn,  for  if  (in  be  pardo- 
ned, every  thing  caufcth  a  progreflb  of  falvation.  Were  it 
not  odious  to  fee  one  profefling  fome  libcrall  Science,  tO 
live  by  lewd  and  dilhonelf  ihifting  ?  No  better  fight  is  it, 
to  fee  a  Chriftian  hanging  his  joy  upon  courfe  and  earchly 
pleafuresjwho  hath  more  noble  and  generous,  yea,Angc- 
licall  delightSjthen  which  what  hath  Heaven  better  but  in 
degree  onely  and  manner  of  fruition  }  Hew  excellent  «•  thy 


lavlngklndnt^cO  Gody  therefore  the  chiUj^n  of  men  ^m 


their  trufi  under  the  (hadorv  of  thy  wings  J^^fhall  be  abun 
danr/yfatlsfiedwtth  thefatnefe  of  thy  houfe  ;  Andthoufhalt 
make  them  drinke  of  the  river  of  thy  plcAfftres,  For  with  thee 
is  the  fount  alne  of  life :  in  thy  light  (hAll  ivejee  light.  It  is- 
a  pleafurc  to  him,  to  want  other  plcafures,who  h  oft  and 
every  day  fcrious  in  the  meditation  of  the  remiffion  of  hi« 
finsjthc  free  grace  and  eternall  love  of  God  towards  him 
in  Jefus  Chrift.  ^  UUS^^ 

He  that  is  every  day  bufied  to  fetch  out  a  pardon  of 
couisfe  for  his  daily  infirmities,  and  to  make  even  recko- 
ning betwixt  God  and  his  Soule,that  nothing  remaineon 
I  the  fcorc  to  interrupt  his  peace,  fhall  neither  be  idle,  nor 
unprofitable;ncither  want  implsymentjnor  comfort.This 
I  PfaLx9.it,i3»  courfe  can  open  no  gap  to  h'centioufnelTe,  liberty  in  fin, 
or  carnall  fecurity :  for  he  is  ever  moft  ftudfous  not  to  run 
into  arreragcs,  who  is  moft  defirous  to  have  his  debts 
cancelled  and  blotted  out.  Faith  is  of  the  nature  of  fove- 
raigne  purifying  waters,  wjiich  fo  wafli  off  the  corruption 


^ 


touching  the  ^romfes  off  or  don  and  forgivenejfcj^c, 

of  tht  ulcer:that  they coole  the  hcatc,  and  flay  tbc  fprcad 
of  the  infedlion,  and  by  degrees  hcale  the  fame.  And  of 
CordialsjWhich  fo  comfort  and  cafe  the  heart.as  alfothcy 
expcll  noxious  humours,  and  ftrcngthcn  nature  againft 
them.  JuOifying  faith  rakes  kindly  rooting  in  adcane 
heart,  and  being  rooted  purificth  it  more  and  more.  Faith, 
that  pleads  for  mercy,  doih  cleave  to  the  Commande- 
men  ts,  ftirre  up  tohoh'nefTc,  over-rule  the  afted:ion»,  de- 
light in  purity,  and  diffufcthc  vcrtuc  of  the  word  into 
every  faculty  of  the  foulc. 

It  may  be  ob/cded,  If  faith  ccrtifie  that  our  fins  be  par- 
doned ;  and  there  be  fuch/oy  in  believing,  how  comes  it 
to  palTc  that  many  good  Chriftians  live  fo  long  in  fearc 
and  doubt,  who  would  be  contented  to  take  any  paines  to 
be  fetled  in  afitirancc  of  GoHs  love  ?  The  common  caufes 
of  this  flowneflc  of  beliefe  are  many. 

Firft,  an  immoderate  aggravation  of  tlicir  finne,  and 
continuall  thought  of  their  unworthinefle.  Thus  the  cafe 
riands  with  many  poore  ChriHians;  faine  they  would  be- 
lieve (as  they  acknowledge)  but  they  arc  un  worthy jthey 
have  bccnc  finners,  Thefe  muft  know,  it  is  good  they 
fhould  fee  their  ownc  an wor thine ffe,  but  not  that  they 
fhould  behindred  thereby  fi-om  comming  to  Chrift ;  it 
is  good  to  denie  themfelves,  but  not  to  doubt  of  the 
mercy  of  ihe  Lord.  Chrift  came  to  fecke  thnt  which  was 
lofi,  to  bind"  up  the  Brotiken  hearted,  and  to  [ave  fmners. 
He  died  for  his  enemies,  for  the  unworthy  :  He  inviteth 
the  burdened  to  come  unto  him,  and  makes  futc  to  the 
poore  and  worthleffejthat  he  might  cafe  and  enrich  them. 
If  they  were  notunwortliy,  w^bat  need  had  they  of  Gods 
mercy  ?  or  how  (hould  God  glorific  the  riches  of  his 
mercy  in  pardoning  their  offences  ?  The  feeling  of  their 
unworthincs  makes  them  fit  to  receive  mercy  from  G»d 
who  doth  vouchfafc  it  freely  :  feeing  befidcs  their  finne, 
which  makes  them  unworthy,  they  have  a  fence  of  it;and 
an  heart  broken  for  it.  If  they  were  not  unworthy,  they 
could  not  believe  \  If  their  cafe  had  not  becne  defperate, 

0^2  what 


227 


fVhence  it  h 
t  hat  many  good 
Ckrifi  tans  live 
fo  long^  in  jeare 
an  J  doubt. 


I. 


Matth.18.11. 
Efay  ^1.1^2, 
Match. 9. 13. 
I  Pet. 3.1  f. 
Rom.  y.  10. 
Mach.ii«i8. 


/ 


2l8 


&  44.12. 
Hof.i4.J,4- 


Ezra  I®. z. 


Ephef.  t.4. 

Pfal.?I.l,2. 
Exod.  54.6,7. 

*  Ifay  J  J. 9. 

iChron.Jg. 
I  Tim.i.ig. 

Aa.2.»7,j8. 
Luk.7.47. 


ilohn  1.7. 
Efay  1.18. 


pr^4^  it  is  to  live  hj  Fdth  in  f  articular 

\  whatnecde  was  there,  that  Chrift  fhould  corns  from  the 
bofome  of  his  Father  ?  Pardon  is  offered  freely  of  grace, 

1  the  more  vile  they  be  in  thcmfelvcs,  the  fitter  to  receive 

'  this  undefervcd  kindneffe. 

Oh,  but  their  {ins  are  grievous  and  notorious,  fcarlet, 
crying,   fcandalous  {inncs  ?    This  deteftation  of  fin  is 
greatly  to  be  commended,if  they  remember  withall,  that 
there  is  hope  \*t  Ifrael  concerning  this  :  if  they  will  fet 
one  eye  upon  the  mercy  of  God,  as  they  fet  the  other  up- 
on the  vileneffe  of  their  iniquities.    If  their  fins  be  many 
and  great,God  is  rich  in  mercjy  ahnndant  in  goodneffe,  hath 
a  ntKltitude  of  tender  mercies  I  His  mercie  reacheth  above 
the  Heavens f  he  forgiveth  iniquity jtranfgreffion,  fin  and 
rebellion.  All  faults  are  eafily  pardonable  to  his  infinite 
mercy,  which  exceeds  Mans,  *  as  Heaven  doth  Earth; 
which  can  readilier  forgive  feventie,  then  Man  feven  of- 
fences. Was  not  A d^tm, Manages,  Paal^  thefinfull  wo- 
man commonly  csMcdMdry  Magdalene  yihc  Qretians  and 
lerees  who  irabrewed  their  hands  in  the  bloud  of  Chrift, 
received  of  him  to  mercy  ?  Doth  not  he  delight  to  for- 
give much,  that  he  may  binde  to  love  much  ?  Shall  noTKiT 
favour  faperabound  to  the  fence  of  faith,  where  fin  hath 
abounded  to  the  woun3mgof  ConfcienccT  It  matters  not 
what  the  wound~is,  fo_  Chrift "Bec^he'Phyfitian.    The 
bloud  of  Chrifi  cleanfeth  m  from  allftnne.  Nothing  but  the 
bloud  of  Chrift  can  wafh  away  the  guilt  of  the  leaft  fin ; 
and  his  bloud  is  fufficient  to  purge  the  nioft  polluted 
Confcience.       '  "  ^^^ 

But  they  have  felt  no  extraordinary  meafure  of  forrow 
for  fin,  they  are  rather  dull  and  fenceleffe  ?  Are  they 
weary  of  fin  ?  have  they  forrowed  to  felfe-deniall,and 
to  renou'Rcc  their  intereft  in  whatfoever  might  feparate 
betwixt  Chrift  and  them  ?  To  fuch  is  the  word  of  Re- 
conciliation fent. 

But  they  have  often  (lipped  into  the  fame  fins  ?  There 
is  a  difference  of  offences.  There  bee  fins  of  ignorance, 
infirniity,  forgetfuUneflc,  and  fudden  paflion,  w hereunto 

the 


toticMf^  tkfromifiiofpardon  md  forgivcnejfeydicc. 

tbeb^artyccjdcthnpc  advifed  confent,  and  from,  which 
the  fairhTuycby  reafon  of  their  frailty  can  never  beifce  in 
tbisiifcjjp  ;foai!3  c^cgrceoj:  other.  Now  unto  thcfc  God  lo^ 
liis  mcrcy.yf  pleafed  to  grant  a,^ pardon  oJEcOurfe,  notwith- 
ftandinghis  fervants  ftep  ofc  into  them  through  weake- 
nelTe,  provided  they  humble  themfclvcs,  feeke  mercy ,and 
labour  the  mortification  of  their  infirmities.    ^brahAm 
twice  depied  i'<ir4^  to  behisfwifcj  laying,  She  is  my  SU 
fler,  0?Dgvidiiis  recorded,  tliat  though  hs  were  a  man 
after  Gods  owne  heart  in  all  thitigs,  except  the  matter  of 
Vriah,  yet  of  frailtie  he  offended  many  times  m  the  fame 
particular.   There  be  foalc,  enormous,  notorious  finnes, 
which  vvouod  the  conf(;iencc,  and  ftop  and  hipder  the 
lively  operation  ©f  grace ;;.  andthcfsimwft  be  repented  of, 
andadvifedly  left  and  forlaken',  before  we  can  bfclieweto 
thp pardonand forgivencfie oFthem.    Ncverthelcfle, iPa 
man  have  often  fallen  intotbefeoftcnecs,  he  is  not  to  dc- 
fpairc,but  feriouQy  tx>  confelVe,  and  to  forfakc  his  finne, 
that Jtie  may  qbtaine  mcccy.For  the  L^rdiinviteth  the  ^b*^ 
ftinqtc  and  rebcUious  to  repent,  and  by  word  and  oath"  iP 
fureththemof  forgivencflc,  if  they  willreturno.    And  i^ 
welooke  upon  examples,we  fhall  finde  many  fuch,  who 
upon  humiliation  and  earneft  prayer  have  beene  received 
unto  mercy. 

But  they  have  fallen  grievoully  'fincc  'converGtm  ?  So 
did  Z)4i/i^,and/'tff^r,  whoyctrccavercd  by  grace,  and 
upon  repentance  were  forgiven.  A  foulc  offence,  after 
grace  rcceived,is  not  unpardonable.  The  bloud  of  Chrifl^ 
which  wafheth  away  the  guilt  of  iins  before  convcrfion, 
is  fufificient  to  purge  the  confcience  from  fins  after  con- 
verfion  likewifc^We  arc  commanded  to  repent  of,taught 
to  pray  for  the  pardon  of  fins  without  exception.  It  is  of 
free  mercy  that  former  finnes  arc  covered,  and  by^he 
fame  mercy  of  God  this  tranf^^tefTion  miy  be  pardoncdl' 
The  mercy  of  Gpd  is  evcrla(iling,his  covenant  uncbah<^i'^ 
able,  though  wc  be- iinfaithfuU,  yet  he  cannot  forget  hiHiii^ 
fclfe.Hc  delightcth  toi  flicw  mercy,  and  rcjoyceth  iii^  tW 
Q^Z foiilc 


t  ^ 


129 


1  lolin  1,8. 
I  John  z.  z. 


2^0 


what  it  is  to  Iwei^y  Faith  m  particular 


foulc  that  hath  finned,  but  now  lamcntcth,  faying,  I  have 
Jinnedy4ndit  did  not  profit  mf -The  commandcment  of  God, 
injoyningus  to  forgive  our  brother  not  fcvcn  times  but 
fcvcntic  times  fcvcn  timcs,if  he  rcpent,is  an  cxprcflion  of 
his  readincffe  to  (hew  mercy,  to  them  who  doc  oft  and 
gricvoufly  offend,  if  they  rcturncby  unfaincd  repentance, 
and  fuc  for  mercy.   Oh,  then  take  heed,  that  to  other 
great  and  many  fins  infidelity  be  not  added.  Doubting  be- 
gets deadncfle,  whereas  looking  up  unto  the  promifes  of 
mercy, will  both  eafc  and  foften  the  heart. 

But  they  cannot  believe?  Indeed  they  thinke  there  is 
no  promifeof  msrcy  made  to  them,  upon  which  they 
fliould  ground  their  confidence.    Therefore  they  mult 
know ;  that  God  callcth  them  in  his  Word,tO  come  unto 
him,  as  if  he  did  particularly  name  them,  and  promifcth 
to  receive  them  unto  mercy  ;'and  then  they  muft  confidcr 
of  the  free  grace  of  God  in  promifiDg,and  his  faithfulneflc 
in  making  good  whatfoevcr  he  hath  promifcd,  that  nei- 
ther want  of  fcelingjUor  conccitefunworthines  dil^ear- 
tcn  them  from  drawing  nigh  unto  him.  They  muft  think 
fcriouOy  with  tlicmfelves,  I  need  mercy,  and  the  Loii 
hath  promifed  it :  I  thirft  after  it,and  the  Lord  wiH  grant 
unto  me  my  defire  according  to  his  promife  i  lam  utterly 
undone  if  I  obtainc  not  helpc ;    and  heipe  is  not  to  bee 
found,  but  in  the  Lord  Jefus,  who  lovingly  invitethmcc 
to  come  unto  him,that  I  may  be  rcfrefhed.  Seeing  there- 
fore I  long  for  mcrcy,and  the  Lord  makes  offer  of^it  in  his 
dcarcly  beloved  Sonne,  I  will  goe  unto  him  and  humble 
my  foule  before  the  throne  of  his  grace,  Iwill  cntreate 
mercy,artd,rowIc  my  foule  upon  the  promife  of  falvaiipn. 
All  my  hcl^istolooke  off  my  felfe  an  o^cft- af  confufi- 
on,and looke u£onChrift  an objedl of confolatjon;  there- 
fore I  cleave  uiitohim  as  mine  only  Saviour,  and  truft 
inhira  though  he  iHouldTkill  me.  Itdotbnot  plcafcGod, 
thatlfliouldftandaloofFcand  ftraine  courtefie,  now  hee 
cncQprageth  me  to  come  with  confidence,    or  give  wiy 
to  doubtings,  now  I  have  his  promife,  who  never  failed 


touching  thefromfesoffardon  and  f0rg('uemjfe,6cc. 

^ — ^_  —  -  -     -        — 

any  that  trufted  in  him,  who  hath  done  more  for  mc  then 
cvcrhc  promifcd :  therefore  I  will  goe  anto  him  in  the 
mediation  of  Jefus  Chrift,  and  importune  his  grace ;  if  I 
pcrifh  I  will  peri{h  in  his  bofomc,  to  die  for  it  nothing 
rhall  feparate  mc  from  his  mercy. 

A  fecond  caufe  of  this  flo  wnelfe  may  bee  ignorance  of 
the  way  how  this  affurance  is  to  be  fought,  upon  what 
foundation  it  is  to  be  laid,  in  what  order  they  come  un- 
to it.  Sometimes  they  mif-conceive  the  promifcs,  as  if 
they  were  offered  onely  to  Believers,  and  not  laid  as  the 
foundations  of  faith  ;  and  thereupon  falfely  conclude,that 
no  proraife  is  made  unto  them,  bccaufs  they  cannot  finde 
that  they  doc  believe.  Sometimes  they  miftake  the  nature 
of  faithjtakiflg  it  to  be  a  perfwafion  or  afliirance  that  their 
finnes  are  pardoned  ;  and  fo  conclude,  that  they  hive  no 
faith,  becaufe  they  want  afTurance  :   when  in  the  order  of 
nature, faith  is  precedent  to  afluall  reraiffion.  Awd  many 
times  Chriftians  are  herein  deceived,that  they  feare  to  re- 
ceive and  apply  the  promifes  of  grace,tili  they  can  h\6,z  in 
thcmfelves  fuch  a  meafurc  ot  fand:ificati  )n,  as  is  fcarcc,  if 
at  all,attaineable  in  this  life.    Thefe  and  fuch  like  biockcs 
mufl:  be  remove  \  by  good  information,acquainting  them- 
fcives  out  of  the  Word  of  God,    what  faith  is,  the  order 
in  which  we  niuft  climbe  up  to  afliirance,  how  the  pro- 
mifes are  to  be  received,and  what  is  the  true  ufe  of  fantfti- 
fication.    But  two  things  are  Specially  to  bee  learned  for 
their  diredion. 

Firft,  thataflbone  as  ever  a  man  feeles  fin  as  a  bur- 
den, and  doth  truely,  earneSly.  fervently  thirft  to  bee 
cafcdof  it,  he  hath  a  calling  toco  mc  unto  Chrift  to'iske,^ 
oBtai nc,an3rcce i vc mercy.  He  that  was  bitten  with  the 
fierie  Serpent,  was  appointed  to  lookeuptothe  brafen 
Serpentjthat  he  might  recover.  Oh  then  delay  no  longer, 
bee  not  held  backe  with  vaine  objections  and  caufeleffc 
fcruples.  Behold,  he  calls  thee  to  come,  why  {houldeft 
thou  feare  in  refpcifl  of  thy  vilcncs  ?  Faith  is  obedience, 
and  obedience  is  more  acceptable  then  courtefic  and  com- 
0^4 plemcnr. 


231 


^, 


Jfayj 
Ioh.7. 
Num. 


I. 

J.f. 

57. 


Matth 
I  Job. 


.11. j8, 

J.24- 


v^ 


252 


Iolin6.i9. 


2. 


Rev. 
Ifay 
Joh. 


Gal.3.14. 


WhAt  it  is  to  li*vc  hj  F/tith  in  f  articular 

I  plcmcnt.  The  iboncr  thou  commcft,thc  better  welcome, 

,  I<  ii  rudcneffe,  and  xiQt  good  jr^nners,  not  to  doc  as  thou 

';art  bidden  to  doe,yea,  and  fo  eanicftly  pcrfwadcd,  intrea- 

ted,  and  charged  to  doe.    To  doe  the  vforks  ^f  God  is  to 

believe  in  bim,  whom  he  hath  fealed  and  fent  to  be  thy 

[  Saviour.  And  (halt  thou  not  tennc  times  more  honour  and 

pleafe  him  m  trufting  upon  his  mercies,  andfcaling  to  his 

i  truth,  then    in  fearing  his  ;uftice,   and  dreading  his 

power. 

Secondly,  hee  that  findes  himfclfc  plunged  into  the 
gulfc  of  mifery  by  fin,  and  dcftitute  of  the  fappe  and 
Fruit  of  grace  is  invited  to  come  unto  Chrift,  that  hec 
may  receive  from  him  the  grace  of  fan^ificatiofl,  as  well 
as  remiflion  :  Oh^  everyone  that  thlrfteth,-tome  jee^'io 
the  waters ;    Hes  that  helieveth,   out  of  his  bellie  /hail 
flow  rivers  of  -water  of  life.    The  barren  in  grace  muft 
come  unto  Chrift  to  be  fupplied  of  his  fuUncfie.  ^y  faith 
wee  receive  the  promtfed Spirit,    Hee  that  W allow eth  in 
finnc,  is  not  fitted  to  believe,  for  juftifying  faith  can  ne- 
ver take  found  roo;ing,  in  the  heart,  which  is  not  refol- 
vcd  to  forgoe  the  praftice,  and  hath  caft  ofFthc  love  of  all 
finne:  but  when  a  man  is  wearie  of  finne,  and  findes 
cmptineflc  of  gracCj  as  he  is  commanded  to  pray  for  mer- 
cy,and  the  gifts  of  grace, fo  is  bee  to  believe  in  Chrift,  for 
the  obtaining  of  both.  Wherefore  ftudyjftrivc,  endevour 
to  believe,  and  lay  hold  on  thcRocke,  as  in  danger  of 
drowning  a  man  will  doc  on  the  tree  or  port  that  comes 
next  to  hand.  WhenlFou  haft,  in  thy  conceit,  moftTaure 
todefpaire,  labour agian ft  itj^ when  thou  haftnd  reafon 
in  thy  apprehcnfi^oh  to  Bclieve,believe  with  all  thy  pow- 
!  cr ;  when  the  favour  of  God  is  loft  to  thy  feefing,   ft  may 
bcprefcntto  thy  faith,  which  difcerneth  what  is  promi- 
fed,though  to  fence  it  have  no  being.  And  for  thine  Cncou- 
^  ragement,fet  before  thine  eyes  Chrifts  freedome  toal  fui- 
ters  in  the  time  of  his  flefhyrepclling  none  who  truely  de- 
I  fired  the  price  of  his  bloud.  There  be  other  caufcs  of  this 
I  wcakncSjWhich  have  been  mentioncd,^'arifwcred  before. 
'  Now 


touching  thefrcmifes  of-pardm  andfcrp'venejfej^c,  1     ^  3  3 


fiineufthem- 
felvcT  to  belicttt 
"tvhen  theyfeele 
nocomjoTt, 


*Icr.3.i^_ 


rfal.sS.y. 


xSam. 


Now  if  any  poor  c  and  wcakc  Chriftian  dcfirc  to  know 

(as  he  defircs  nothing  more)how  he  (hovld  ftirrc  up him- 

I  fclfc  to  believe  the  promife  of  forgiveneffe,  when  hee 

wants  the  comfort  of  ir,  yea,  v  hen  to  his  owne  fence  he 

fecles  the  contrary. 

Firft,  he  muft  unfainedly  bumble  his  foule  before  God 
in  the  confcflion  of  fin,with  earneft  praycrTor  parHon.For 
he  that  *  acknowlcdgcth  hisjlnsjliall  be  received  into  fa- 
vour.  O  Lord^HavcTi^nned,"nd  thou  artTuftly  difplcalcB: 
I  have  caft  off  thy  law,  and  thy  wrath  is  kindled  againft 
me.  My  heart  trembleth  at  the  apprehcnfion  of  thy  fore 
difpleafure,  and  I  am  afraid  of  thy  judgements.    All  this 
is  cotae  upon  me  by  reafon  of  my  fbolifhnefTe:  my  fmart 
and  forrow  is  bred  in  mine  owne  bofome.  I  have  no  reft  I 
)  in  mj  bones  becaufe  of  my  fiH.     But,  deare  Fatlier,  I 
look  unto  thee  for  mercy  in  Jefus  Chrift  :•  I  befeech  thee, ! 
take  away  the  tranfgreflion  of  thy  fervanr.  It  is  thy  pro- 
pertie  to  fhcw  mercy.it  is  thy  free  promife  to  pardon  the  [ 
iniquities,  tranfgrcflions,  and  fins  of  thy  people  that  I 
turnc  unto  thee,  and  pray  ;  for  thy  Names  fake  be  favou- 
rable to  mine  iniquities,  and  remember  my  Hn  no  more  : ! 
caft  them  behinde  thy  backe,  doc  them  away  as  a  miO, 
and  bury  them  in  perpetuall  oblivion.    I  have  gone  aftray  , 
like  a  loft  (heepe,  but  now  my  delire  is  to  returne  liome 
unto  thee  :    With  my  whole  hear:  Idefire  thy  favour, 
O  fuffer  raee  not  to  perifh  under  the  burden  of  my 
finnc.  Remember  not  ray  revoltings  from  thy  Com  man- 
dements  :  but  according  to  the  multitude  of  thy  tender 
compaffions  remember  me  for  th/  goodnelTc  fake,  O 
Lord.  Truth  it  is,  I  am  not  worthy  to  be  called  thy  forne, 
or  to  be  partaker  of  the  leaft  crumme  of  thy  mercy  :  But 
thou  art  a  moft  loving  and  compalTionare  Father,  who 
dcalcft  not  according  to  the  iniquities  of  thy  children 
thattrefpafle  againft  thee,  nor  rewardeft  them  according 
to  their  dcferts;  who  retaineft  not  thine  anger  forever,   S^r.^.i^.ic,. 
bccaufc mercy  pleafcth thee.  Ifthouwik  bemercifiillto  jpfal.io^.io. 
my  finnc,  then  fhall  thy  glory  appearc,  my  heart  fhall  be  1 

e-ufia- ' 


M-Jo, 


Exod  J  4.5,7. 

I>a.4i-2J.  & 
44-»i. 

M!C.7.,8. 
IIjI  J '.1,1. 


^34 

Pfal.Ijo,4. 


WfjAt  it  is  to  live  by  Fdth  in  particular 


i 


Pfal.4i. 


Match. 1 1. &8. 
Efayyj.1,2. 
Mic.7.  ip. 
pral.65.3. 
PfaUj.2. 
Efayi.18. 
»  Cor.  J. 19, 20 
iJoh.3.2j. 


Rora,5.xo. 

Ephcf.f.i.& 
1.7. 


Rom.j.tf. 
HoCr4.j. 

lokn  3.16. 


Efayf4.8. 
Ezck.  16.60. 

A<^s  9.1 1. 


cnflamed  with  thy  lovc,I  (Kail  walkc  in  thy  fcarc,  and  ntiy 
tongue  iliall  fing  of  thy  goodncflc. 

Secondly,  He  mud  rowfc  and  ftirre  up  himfclfe  to  be- 
lieve, with  rearons,drawne  from  the  promifes,  and  cove- 
nant of  God  made  in  Icfus  Chrift,conliderations  taken  out 
of  the  Word.and  experience  of  his  dealing  with  other  his 
fcrvants  in  former  times.  fVhy  art  thon  cafi  dotvne,  O  mj 
foule^whj  art  thou  dtf^nieted  voithirt  me  f  Truji  In  God,znd 
caft  thy  burthen  upon  him,  for  he  will  eafethee.Thou  haft 
his  promife  confirmed  by  oath  and  covenant,  that  he  will 
caft  thy  fins  into  the  bottome  of  the  Sea,  purge  away  thjr 
tranfgreflions,  forgive  thine  iniquitics,(cover  all  thine  in- 
firmitics,and  never  remember  them  any  more.  Behold,hc 
perfwadeth,  intrcateth,  befeecheth  commandeth  thee  to 
believe  :  why  art  thou  afraid  ?  It  is  the  will  of  God,  that 
thou  ftiouldcft  reft  on  bis  mercy ;  he  cannot  be  o^yaded 
for  that  which  himfelfe   commandeth,  nor  denie  that 
which  hec  hath  promifed.    If  Jinne  abound,  mfrcy  JbaU 
abonndmttch  more.  His  burning  wrath  is  pacified  in  Je- 
fus  Chrift,  who  hath  given  himfelfe  <««  ofn-ing  and  afa- 
crificeto  (Jodfor  afweetefraefJ^ng  favour xh^X.  grace  might 
glorifie  her  felfe  in  the  pardoning  of  thy  ofFei.ces,    Haft 
thou  nothing  to  bring  before  him  but  fin  and  impiety  that 
he  abhorreth  ?  He  lookcth  upon  thee  in  his  deare  Sonne 
Jz(\xs  Chxi{k.,whom  he  hath  fet  forth  to  he  a  propitiation 
through  faith  in  his  hloud,2ind  loveth  freely.  Doeft  thou  re- 
qtiire^teftimonies  of  his  undeferved  kindneflc  ?  Godfolo. 
vedthe  worldythat  he  gave  his  only  begotten  Sonne ^that  rvho- 
foener  believe  th  in  him^Jhould  not  perijhybnt  have  everlafiing 
life.  He  hath  entredinto  a  free  and  evcrlafting  covenant 
with  thee,  and  waited  long  for  thy  converfion  when  thoa 
wcnteft  aftray :  and  will  he  not  much  more  have  mercy 
upon  thee  now  thou  pray  eft  ?  Why  art  thou  difmaycd  at 
the  fight  of  thy  great  unworthinefle  ?  Mifery  is  the  objedl 
of  mercy :  the  greater  thy  diftrefle,  the  more  glorious  will 
be  the  grace  of  God  in  thy  deliver  ance.The  bafer  thou  art 
in  thine  own  fight,tbe  fitter  to  believe :  for  faith  excludes 

all 


touching  thefrmifes  offurdcn  ofidfor^'veneffe.^Q, 


all  conceit  of  wortb,and  rcccivcth  pardon  as  a  mccrc  gift 
of  grace.  Sinfiillmcn,  whofe  compaffions  arc  not  as  the 
drop  of  a  bucket  to  the  huge  Occan,if  compared  with  the 
infinite  Sea  of  mercy  which  is  in  our  God,  muft  forgive 
their  Brethren  till  feventie  times  feven  time?,  itthcy  fin 
againft  thcoj,  and  repent:  Our  God,  who  requires  io 
much  of  us,  who  have  nothing  but  what  he  givetb,wiU  be 
not  dealc  tenderly  with  the  poorc  foule,  which  hath  fin- 
ned and  repenteth  ?  God  harh  done  more  for  us  then  tor 
fhame  we  could  defire,  before  we  asked  any  thingat  his 
band.:  yea,  when  we  fought  to  excufe  our  difobcdiencc, 
and  charge  the  fault  upon  his  Highneffe-.what  will  he  not, 
do,  when  we  accufc  our  fclves^nd  pray  for  mercy  ?  My 
foulcSailng  c^hm7hee,but  unbeliefc.Thou  art  woun- 
dedbyfin  •  Bcjievc^in  Cbrift,  and  by  hisbloud  thou  art 
healed.Godisaliry  rBcfTeverand  thou  art  reconciled: 
AirrSTance  ccafcth,  when  thou  art  knit  unto  Chrjft. 
Wherefore  (hake  oflFdiftruft,  hearken  no  longer  to  the 
afl'aults  of  Sathan  :  but  rowle  thy  felfkuoonjhe  Lotd,and 
(lick  faft  unto  his  mercy . If  thou  want  the  fence  of  his  love, 
thou  haft  his  promife  that  bee  will  bee  good  urto  thee  : 
cleave  unto  it  above  all  thou  canft.fcclc,  fee,  orcomprc- 
hend.Onw  Go3;iwilItrnftinthee,  though  thouOioul- 
deft  kUl  rac  :  I  willbclievcthy  favour,whcnthou  frow- 
neftuponme:  and  exped  comfort,  when  I  lie  groaning 
under  the  heavie  weight  of  thy  difpleafure.  Thoucaufeft 
man  for  a  time  to  poflcfle  the  fins,  which  thou  baft  pardo- 
ned :  and  I  will  believe  the  pardon  of  my  fms,  when  thou 
feemeft  to  fet  them  in  order  before  my  face.         . 

Thirdly,  He  muft  be  inftant  with  the  Lord  to  g^^f/y^ 
both  ftrength  of  faith;  and  the  fight  of  l^if  belie  fe^hathe^^ 
may  know  he  doth  believe  unfainedly.  Give  m^>^^^"^"^ 
Father , to  bclieve,as  thou  haft  commanded  me  to  relie  up- 
,  on  thee.  Thouftretcheft  forth  thy  hand  in  love,  and  ofte- 
reft  rich  treafures  of  gcoc^neffe,  to  them  that  lay  hold  up- 
oivth«^a))create  in  me^be  hand  of  faith  that  I  n\ay/ff^^^^^ 
ally  receive  what  in  mercy  thourcachcft  f  or  th.The  know- 


^35 


^4 


Luke  17.^4. 


L'2^-   i 


235 


4,-' J  J 


PThy  God  de- 
fen  eth  to  grant 
the  comfort  of 
for^tvenejfe. 


What  k  is  to  Itve  by  Faithinyartic^Ur  i  > . ». 

ledge  of  faith  is  ofthee,  as  is  the  gift  itfclfe :  give  mc  the 
Spiricof  revelation,  that  I  may  diCccrnc  truly  what  thsu  " ' 
naftgivcnmc>thactnyiipf>nay'fing:x>f  thy  praifc  all'  the 
.day(long.  •  '      ;    ■:  :\  .'  ,     ,-        .;    , ,  ^ 

Fourthly,Hc  mufl  comfort  his  heart  in  the  certainty  of 
Gods  Wordjthough  for  the  prefent  he  fcele  no  comfort 
Rcturne  unto  thy  rcft.O  my  foule,for  the  Lord  willdealc 
bountifully  with  tbee.  His  Word  isgrone  forth  in  truth 
waice  alittle  while,  and  thou  fhalt behold  the  lightof  hia 
countenance.  The  Lord  deferreth  to  grant  the  comfort  of 
toreiveneOe,  that  he  might  confirme  faith,  trainc  thecuD 
in  obedience,  trie  thy  patience,preferve  his  grace»,and  do 
theegoodm  the  latter  end.    Thou  art  already  bleflcd  be 

caufc  the  grant  of  pardon  is  fealcd,and  received:  the  fence 
ofdehverancepertaincthto  the  execution,  which  for  ^ 
iittlelcalonis  deferred,  that  it  may  bee  perfefted  with 
greater  elory  to  God,and  comfort  to  thy  felfe.  Bleflcd  be 
the  Lord,who  hath  turned  away  his  eyes  from  my  tranf- 
grellions,  but  hath  not  turned  away  his  racrcy  from  m6 
Repycc  in  the  Lord,  O  my  foule,  agai«e,  I  fay,rc/oyce  • 
for  he  hath  covered  thine  iniquities,  and  purged  a  way  thv 
fin  that  thou  malt  not  die.Oh,theble(redncflc  of  that  man 
whole  iniquities  are  forgiven,  to  whom  the  Lord  imm^ 
teth  no  fin.  ^" 

Fiftly,  Thus  faith  is  daily  to  be  preferved  and  quickc- 
ncd;  unto  which  it  is  not  unprofitable  to  adde  fomc 
thoughts  concerning  the  blefTedneflc  of  the  Man,  whofe 
debts  arc  cancelled  out  of  Gods  Booke;  thcgJace  and 
!oveofGod,whovouchfafcth  to  (liew cimpaffion here- 
in 5  the  price  that  was  payed  to  divine  Juftice,  that  sracc 

iievc  Thefe  things  may  fervc  to  quicken  the  heart  in  the 
confideration  of  this  mercy. 


CHAP. 


thefromifes  of  Saff^ifcatm,dcc, 


T 


CHAP.  III. 

H^hat  it  14  to  live  hy  faith  touching  the  promi/es  of 

San^ificAtion,  Andhor*  toftirre  np  onr 

felves  thereunto. 

Henextfpirituallpromircsot  thincs  abfolutely  nc-  \Ojthe  promifef 


237 


0}  Sanifijicati- 
on. 


Mic.7.18,19, 


_  ceflary  to  lalvation  arc  concerning  San(flification  J  or 
the  killing  of  finne  and  quickening  us  to  ncwncfle  of 
life,  by  the  continued  infufion  of  holineflc,  and  renova- 
tion of  our  hearts  according  to  Gods  Image,  and  to  the 
enabling  us  to  walk  in  new  obedience  according  to  cove- 
nant. And  this'is  fignified  by  the  generall  tearffies  of  iijb- 
duing,  faving,  wafhing,  cleanfing,  and  purging  from 
fin  and  iniquity.  IVho  u  4  God  iikf  unto  tl^ee,  that 
pardontth  iniejuitie.andpaffeth  hy  the  trMnfgrejpon  of  the 
remnant  of  his  heritage  f  bee  reta'ineth  not  bis  anger  for 
ever,  hecaufehee  delighteth  in  mercy-  Hee  roill  turne  a- 
gaine,  he  will  have  compajjton  up^n  us  ;  he  rvill  fubdtte  our 
inicfutties,  and thoH  wilt  caft  all  their  fmnes  into  the  depths 
oft  be  Sea.  Hee  JhaU  fAve  his  people  from  their  finne  ; 
which  as  it  is  true  in  the  matter  of  our  Juftification  for 
the  forgivencfle  of  our  finne ;  fo  alfo  in  the  point  of  San- 
aification,  for  delivering  us  from  the  power  of  finne. 
And  fo  arc  the  like  generall  fpeechcs  to  be  underftood, 
that  Chrifi  is  the  Lambe  of  Go  /,  which  taketh  away  the  fins 
of  the  world '^  that  he  was  manifefled  to  take  away  our  ftnnes; 
that  the  bloudofChrifl  cleanjeth  us  from  a/i  finne  ;  that  he 
loved  us  and  wajhed  us  from  our  finnes  in  his  owne  bloud.  Apoc.i  j. 
And  this  \%  that,whichthe  Lord,  of  bis  free  mercy,  pro-  | 
mifed  to  cffecfl  for  his  Church  and  people,  ^yini  it  JhaR 
come  topafe,  that  he  that  is  left  in  Z  ion,  and  he  that  rcmai- 
neth  in  Ierufalem,(hall  be  called  holy,  even  every  one  that  is 
written  among  the  living  in  lerufalem.  When  the  Lordjhai 
have^ajhed  away  the  filth  of  the  daughters  ofZion,    and  . 


••w-j 


Matth.i.ai. 


lohn  1.  2p. 
I  Ioh.2.2. 
1  lohn  1.7. 


Efay43.f. 


238 


Adrift  Ian  h 
allowzX  to  be- 
leevethe(ep9 
mifef. 


I. 

E2ek.11. 19. 
Jer.ji.  5J.  & 
31.40. 


2. 


RcYel.21.l7, 

I0K.7.J7, 

Vcrfcjg. 

lohn  1.1$. 
Col.  I  19. 
Ephef.iaj. 
Col.j.iOjii- 
Col.2.io. 


X  Cor.  1.5a 


W^af  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  touching 

JhmU  have  purged  the  blond  ef  leruftilem  from  the  midft  ther- 
of,  hj  the  Spirit  of  Ittdgementy  and  by  the  Jpirit  of  bur. 
ning. 

Now  feeing  wc  have  fuchpromifcs  from  God,  it  fol- 
lowcth  nccfflTarily,  that  a  Chriftian  is  allowed  to  believe, 
tbat  God,of  his  free  grace  in  Chrirt,wiil  purge  him  froaj 
the  filthy  remainders  of  (in,  and  renew  him  more  and 
more  after  his  owne  Image,  in  righteoulnefle  a-.d  true 
4iolinefle. 

In  the  covenant  of  grace  which  God  made  with  hi* 
peoplCjhc  promifcth  to  take  away  thetr  hearts  offione.y  and 
to  give  them  hearts  offiejb;  topHt  his  law  in  their  inward 
parts,  and  wrire  it  in  their  hedrts  j  to  put  his  feare  in  their 
hearts, that  they  fhall  not  depart  from  him :  and  t^ogive  them 
a  new  he^t,  and  to  put  his  Spirit  within  them.  But  what 
God  promifeth,  faith  rcceiveth.  It  is  no  prefumption  but 
true  obedience  to  afliire  oar  felvcs  from  God,of- whatfoc- 
ver  he  hath  paft  his  promife,and  entred  into  bond  and  co- 
venant freely  to  give. 

The  burdened  are  invit.ed  to  come  unto  Chrift  foreafc, 
and  the  thirftie  for  rcfreiHing.  Is  any  man  dried,  withe- 
red, and  burnt  up  for  lackc  of  the  lap  and  snoiilure  of 
grace,  the  fountaine  is  fet  open  unto  him,  he  may  come 
and  drink  to  the  fatisfying  of  his  foule.  If  a»j  man  thirfty 
let  him  come  unto  me, and  drinki-  ^^^  ^^^f  be  lie  vet  h  on  me, 
as  the  Scripture  faith,  out  of  his  belly  fhall  jlow  rivers 
ef  living  rvater.  Chrift  is  the  f  ountaine  of  grace  and  the 
weil  of  life,  cverflowing  and  ever  full,  o£  whofefullneffe 
every  Believer  doth  receive  grace  for  qrace ;  xpho  filet b 
aHinall\  yvho  is  aU  in  all,  in  vphem^wee  are  compleate^ 
filled  with  all  heavenly  graces,  which  ferve  to  remove  e- 
vill,  or  fet  us  in  ftate  of  blefledneffe.  There  \^  no  grace 
but  from  Chrift  %  no  communion  with  Chrift,  but  by 
faith.  From  Chrift  we  receive  to  believe;  and  from  him 
believing,  we  daily  fucke  the  life  of  grace.  Chrift  is  made 
untomofGody  wifedome  and  SanSiification,  as  well  as 
Righteoufnejfe  and  Redempti$n :  and  as  it  is  our  di^ie  to 


1 


the  promt fes  of  SarfCfiJicati0ff,Scc. 


believe  in  Chrift  for  pardon  of  fin,  fo  to  embrace  him  by 
Aith  for  fanaification,  and  to  be  filled  with  his  gifts  of 

grace  in  our  raeafure.  ,   ^  j  r    l-  ^     u 

Chrift  by  his  blond  hath  purchafcd  tor  his  pcop.e  all 
fpiritnall  biddings  in  heavenly  things,  even  all  things  that 
pcrtainc  to  glory  in  the  world  to  come,  and  to  live  godly 
in  this  prcfent  world.  But  what  Chnfthaih  purchafcd, 
that  we  may  afiuredfy  believe  God  will  bcftow.Hc  will 
not  with-hold  any  thing,  that  he  hath  gratioufly  given  to 
our  Saviour  on  our  behalfe.  ..  -^  ^  ^,  -o  •  r 
We  are  taught  to  aske  of  God  in  Jefus  Chnft,  mcreafe 
and  fircneth  of  grace,  that  we  may  be  inablcd  to  walkc 
before  him  in  new  obedience.  fTe  ce^fcnot  tofrajforyou 
and t(>dffire,thatjee might  be  filled  mth  the  kjio^led^e  of 
hifivill  inallwifedomeAnd^iritHaUttnderfiAndtng:  That 
yeemiJhtrr4lke  worthy  of  the  Lord  unto  aU  pleafing,  ^ei*ig 
ituitfHU  in  every  ^ood  worke^^ndincreAftng  in  the  knowledge 
of  God.  And  t^e  very  god  of  peace  fan^ifie  yon  wholy. 
But  what  wefare  taught  and  commanded  tobegge  m 
prayer,  we  are  allowed  to  believe,  that  wee  fhall  obtame 

it  of  free  grace.  ^    ,  r  j   l- 

The  faithful!  have  relied  upon  God  for  grace  and  abi- 
Hty  to  walke  in  his  wayes,  and  to  finiil;i  tjie  work  where- 
unco  they  were  ordained.  Buta'l  the  faith{;ull,  as  faith- 
full,be  partners  in  the  fanie  promifes  and  priviledges,  and 
live  by  the  fame  faith. 

Wee  ai-e  commanded  to  cafi  ef  the  old  man,  whtchis 
corrupt,  with  the  affiSiiont  and  hfts,  and  to  put  on  the 
Nerv  wan,  which  after  God  U  created  in  nghteoufnejfe 
and  true  holinefe:  But  in  the  covenant  of  Grace,  Ood 
gi vcth  what  he  rcquiretb  i  Mans  duty  is  his  free  gift  of 

^"lu's  neceffary  a  Chriftian  (hould  believc,that  G(>d  will 
fanarifie  hi.  nature,and  inable  him  to  thofc  duties  of  holi- 
neffe  and  righteoufneffe  that  he  requires. 

For  Tuftification  and  Sandification  bee  individuall : 
whom  God  doth  acquit  from  the  guilt  of  fin,  and  ac 

cept 


2SP 


3- 

Apoc.i.f. 
Ephef.i.j. 
2  Pet.i  J. 


4. 

Col. 1.9, 10. 
iTlicf.f.zj. 


5- 

Phil  i.io, 
2  Tim, 4. 1  8. 
Phil.413. 


6. 

Ephcf.4. 21, 


It  is  ncce/ary 
to  believe  God] 
rvillfanWf.e 
OUT  natwe>anJ 
enable  to  holt- 
nefe, 
I. 


■r< 


240 


Rom. 8. 1, 
I  Cor.  I  3 


a. 


4. 


Whdt  it  is  to  live  bj  Fdth  touching 


- 


ccpt  as  righteous  unto  life  through  Jefus  Chrift,  them  he 
I  doth  fanftific  by  his  Spirit,  to  walkc  before  him  in  ne\^- 
I  nefleoflife.  Chrifthimfelfe  cannot  be  divided,  nor  the 
participation  of  his  benefits  :  If  by  communion  in  hit 
death,  wc  be  delivered  from  the  curfe  and  malediftion  of 
the  Law ;  by  the  power  of  his  Refurreiaion,  w  e  are  raf- 
fed up  to  live  unto  God. 

If  Chriftians  be  not  perfwaded  that  God  will  morti- 
fic  their  corrupt  afteftions,  and  build  them  forward  in 
holineffc,  they  fhall  very  much  ftagger,  coldly  fct  upon 
the  pra<n:iceof  Chriftianity,  be  ofFand  on,  unftayed,  often 
fainting  at  the  difficulty  of  the  worke,  difraayed  at  their 
manifold  Qips,  ftrong  corruptions,  and  little  prevailings 
againft  them. 

Our  ownc  flrcngth  is  too  weakc  for  the  worke  of  ho- 
linefle ;  as  to  defeat  the  policies  of  Sathan^to  rcprefle  and 
vanquiih  the  lufts  of  our  rebellious  hearts  &  alluremcHts 
of  the  world:  much  more  to  change  &  cleanfc  our  hearts, 
which  are  by  nature  and  cuftome  ia  fin  fo  deeply  polla- 
ted.  If  we  have  not  faith  to  believe  that  God  will  aide, 
aflifl:,  and  bleffc  us  in  our  endeavours,  yea,  and  doe  the 
whole  worke  for  us ;  what  courage  can  wc  have  to  goe 
about  it  >  What  fucceffe  are  wc  like  to  findc  in  it  ?  What 
{hamefuU  foyles  and  repulfes  {hall  wc  fuftaine  ? 

But  fetlcdneffe  in  this,  that  God  will  perfe^  his  work 
begun,  caufeth  men  to  j^oe  about  the  pradice  of  mortifi- 
cation with  muchreadii:cflc,chearefullnc{re,  edlc,  ftaycd- 
neflcjandhappiefpecd.  He  will  fight  manfully  againft 
his  lufts,  and  continue  in  the  combate  againft  them,  who 
is  aflurcd  of  viflory  h'om  God  in  the  end.  It  is  a  great 
heartning  to  refift  cvill,  or  to  doc  any  good  duty,  when 
we  believe  God  will  be  with  us,  in  the  one  and  in  th«  o- 
ther,  to  give  us  helpc  againft  our  enemies,  and  to  inable 
us  unto  the  work:  and  that  work  muft  needs  profper  that 
God  will  f orwaFd,and  fuccced  wcll,that  he  will  bring  to 
perfe<5lion. 

The  promifcs  of  God  concerning  fpiricuall  blcflings 

are 


the  from  fes  cf  Sm5iifcano»,^c. 


arcfo  linked  togethcr,that  whofocvcrbelicvcth  not  every 
one  aright,  he  cai  not  believe  any  one  Ikdfaftly  as  he 
oupht.  He  fnall  many  times  be  in  doubt  of  the  rcmifli  in 
ofnisfinnes,  and  in  feare  of  failing  away,  who  hath  not 
learned  to  reft  upon  God  for  the  grace  of  faiKfli/t- 
cation,  no  Icffe  then  for  the  pardon  of  his  offences  :  for 
the  certainty  of  both  thwfe  is  like,  if  it  be  well  con-» 
fidered, 

Tiiea<fts  of  Faith  concerning  tbefe  promifcs,  bethcfe 
and  fuch  hkc. 

Firft.  It  acquaints  a  man  with  his  emptineflc  of  grace, 
the  (Irengtb  of  his  inbred  corruptions,  how  dec  pc  they 
have  eaten,  how  fatl  they  ftickc,  how  unable  he  ii  to  cru- 
cific  his  inordinate  aff:d:i,>ns,  or  to  repaire  the  decayed 
Image  of  God  in  1  .im,  and  that  he  is  in  wof  ull  cafcjunlefle 
the  Lord  put  to  his  helping  hand.  Faith  in  this  ad  doth 
not  properly  workc  upon  the  promile,  but  prepares  the 
heart  thcrcunro.  And  1  n<  e  it  ib  a  worthy  Icflbn  :  for  thtf 
Icrious  thought  of  this  matter  is  exceeding  forcibl  to 
abafe  and  humble  him  in  his  owneeyes,  and  fo  wholy 
to  drive  him  out  ofhimfelfe.  For  he  perceiveth,  he  is  as 
ftrongly  bound  by  the  tyrannic  of  -n  to  perpetuall  fla- 
vcrie,  as  by  the  guilt  af  fin  to  the  danger  of  condemna- 
tion. CouH  he  get  pardon  for  finne,  what  would  this 
profit,  fo  long  as  he  lieth  ftiil  under  the  power  and  domi- 
nion of  fin,  from  which  he  hath  no  ability  to  deliver  his 
foule.  Ifa  man  labour  of fome  painefull,  loarhfome,incu- 
r^blc  difeafe,  though  in  many  thii^shebe  advanced,  this 
will  pull  downe  conceits  of  greatnefie  :  and  when  a 
Chriftian  comes  to  It  e,  how  many  dangerous,  noylome 
fpirituall  difeafcs  he  laboureth  under,  he  is  not  I  ghdy  af- 
feded  with  it  ;  no,  he  abhorreth  himlelfe,  and  cricth 
out,  O  miferahle  wretch  that  I  am,  vohofhall  deliver  mee 
from  this  bodj  ^fdcAth,  how  fliall  I  be  cured  of  thefe  ma- 
ladies. 

Hereby  alfohe  is  drawn  in  al  his  purpofes  &  refolut'ons 
to  denie  him{elfe,and  to  relie  upon  the  power  of  the  Lord , 

R  onely 


241 


The  afli  of  faith 
dhoutthfiemi- 

fes  offan^iffa 
tion. 


Rom.7.j4. 


^7- 


242 


Pfal.119.8. 


PUI.  1  I 


i'Sy 


Vcrfe  5  -J. 


Verfs  J 
PfaLi7 


J. 


Can.  5.^,7,8. 


what  it  is  to  lively  F/tith  tcttching 

whoonly  rcmaincs  vidorious.  He  purpofcth^but  through 

i  the  might  oF  God  :  which  caufcth  earncft  and  hearty 

'prayer,  to  be  ftrcngthened  unto,  and  eftablifticd  in  that 

i  which  is  good.    /  will  k^epe  thy  Hatfttes  :  O  forfake  me 

'  fjot  utterly.    I  havejlucks  f^^f<'  thy  Te fit  monies  :  O  Lordy 

put  tne  not  to  Jhame.    I  vdUI  rnnne  the  way  of  thy  CoM- 

Wiifidentents,    rvhen  thou  /Ijalt  enlarge  my  heart.    Teach 

\  me,  O  Lord,  the  way  of  thy  Jlatmes,  and  I  Jhall  keepe  it 

t*nto  the  end.    Give  mee  under  (landing  and  I  fhall  keepe 

thy  Law, yea,  I  will  ohjerve  it  with  my  whole  heart,  CMake 

me  togoe  in  the  path  ef  thy  Commandements,  for  therein 

doe  I  delight »    Incline  my  heart  to  thy  teJlimenieSj  and  not 

to  covet  oufne^e.    Hold  up  my  goings  in  thy  paths,  that  my 

footfieps  flip  not,  Purpofes  thus  grounded  bring  forth  holy 

performances.:  but  when  they  are  taken  up  without con- 

fideration  of  our  frailtie,  and  we  rclie  upon  Chrift  for 

^i^  grace  and  affiftance^  thev  quickly  vaniHi  and  conne  to 

nothing.   In  thetimcof  ficknefie,  danger,  difgrace,  we 

make  faire  promifes  to  amend  what  \s  araiffcjand  reforme 

things  out  of  order;  but  when  the  rod  is  removed,{Jhortly 

all  is  cleane  forgotten.  W  hat  may  be  the  reafon ?  We  ftand 

upon  our  owne  feet,  prefume  to  goe  alone,  of  our  felves, 

by  our  owne  ftrength,  and  then  no  marvell  if  wc  fall  and 

catch  many  a  knocke. 

Secondly,  It  fliewcs  where  the  ftrength  \%  to  be  had 

which  wc  want;  and  ftirres  up  to  a  confcionable,  diligent 

and  conftant  ufe  of  the  meancs  of  grace,  that  God  hath 

ordained  ;  but  lookes  up  to  him  for  a  blcfling,  and  reftcth 

not  m  the  meanes.  Faith  h  ever  hungry,  fenfible  of  want 

and  emptineffe,  and  therefore  attends  upon  the  Lord  in' 

the  ufe  of  all  fuch  mcane?,  whereby  he  is  pleafcd  to  con- 

veigh  Chrift  unto  us  for  our  fpirituall  filling.    The  labo- 

i  rious  Bee  is  early  abroad  to  gather,when  there  is  an  hony- 

j  faW  :  and  faith  is  early  awake  to  waitc  upon  the  Lord  m 

}  his  ordinances,  when  he  ftiowres  his  blcflings  upon  his 

[people.  But  it  knowethto  diftinguifh  betwixt  the  ordi- 

I  nances^  in  and  by  which  grace  is  obtained,  and  the  author' 

'  and 


thefromifes  ofSanctiJication,d)CC. 


and  Giver  oFit.  And  this  urgcch  the  Bcliever,earneftly  to 
beg  the  blefling  ok  God  upon  his  owne  ordinances,  with- 
out which  they  cannot  availc  us. 

Thirdly,  It  incitcth  to  an  huly  improvement  of  what 
graces  he  hath  received  already,  as  th«  ready  way  to  have 
them  increafcd,  God  beftovveth  his  gifts  of  grace  in  moft 
plentifuU  meafurCjUpon  them  that  are  moft  carefull  to  put 
them  f-orch  to  advantage.  To  him  that  hath,  that  isy  that 
ufeth  well  what  he  hath  received,  (hAllb:eglv(n,  andhee 
/hxllhave  in  abandanee,  Grace  is  given  freely,  not  defer- 
ved  by  workes :  but  by  the  appointmsrnt  of  God,  he  that 
would  incrcafc  therein ,  mn1  rcligioufly  imploy  what  he 
poflcfleth.  Men  incrcafe  their  (ubftance  by  labour  and 
paincs,  their  learning  by  diligence  :  and  he  that  bcft  im- 
proveth  graces  received,  (liall  moft  abound  therein. 

Fourthly,  It  fighteth  couragioufly  againft  (in,  and  crieth 
inftantly  to  the  Lord  f  jr  helpc.  Faith  will  not  yceld  to  cor- 
ruption,bcthe  combate  never  fo  bote  and  fierie,becaufe  it 
apprehends  vicflory  :  neither  will  it  give  the  Lord  reft, 
bccaufe  it  is  fenfible  of  want,  and  wcaric  of  fin.  Create 
in  mee  a  cleans  hearty  0  God,  andrenevf  4  right  Spirit  with- 
in me. 

Fiftly,  It  fubmitteth  willingly  to  what  courfc  the 
Lord  is  plcafed  to  take  for  the  cru.ifying  of  finne,  and 
healing  of  our  nature.  Lookc  as  the  patient  yceldcth 
himfclfe  unto  the  Phyfician  to  be  dieted,  purged,  orlan- 
ced,for  the  curing  of  his  maladies, and  recovery  of  health: 
fo  doth  the  foule  refigne  it  felfe  by  faith  into  the  hands  of 
God  the  fpirituall  Phyiician  of  the  foule,  who  onely  is  a- 
ble  to  heale  all di (cafes,  to  be  dieted,  purged, exercifed.  as 
feemeth  beft  unto  his  heavenly  wifdome,  onely  it  dcfires 
that  fpirituall  maladies  may  be  removed,  and  liealth  reco- 
vered. 

Sixtly,  Faith  is  the  band  or  (inew  whereby  we  arc  tied 
j  unto  Chrift  the  fountaine  of  grace,  and  the  pipe  whereby 
!  grace  is  conveyed  from  him  into  the  fou'c.  Lookc  what 
I  a  full  treafury  of  all  forts  of  graces  Chrift  hath  ftorcd  up 

R  2  in 


243 


?. 


Luke.  19, 16. 
Matth.i^.ii, 


4. 


pfal.ji.io. 


6. 


Awls. If  9. 


■'}■ 


244 


what  it  is  te  live  hj  Fmh  con  cermttg 


lohn.i.I^. 
]oh.i5.i,f,6. 


Pet. 1. 4. 


tn  V 
(fifefomepartt 

eular  vertue. 


in  hinijfaith  raw  eth  and  dcrivcrh  them  out  of  his  fulncffc 
to  .the  ulcofcacb  icvcrall  Cbriftian,  even  grace  far  gr^ce. 
It  ipctchcth  fap  from  tlic  r  .ot  Chrift,  which  mak  th  eve- 
ry tree  brin-^  i  jrth  truit  in  its  kind,  every  Chriftian  in  his 
owne  calling.  As  water  brought  by  pipes  from  the  foun- 
tai.  e  to  the  cocke,  doth  come  falter  or  flower,  as  the 
pipecbe  wi^et  or  narrower,  open  or  flopped  :  fo  grace 
d  jth  flow  ^rom  Cbrill  in^  o  our  hearts  ir.ore  or  IciTcjas  our 
faith  is  weaker  or  Wronger  in  degree  and  mealurc.  Faith 
opcnctb  (as  it  were)  the  paflagcs  of  grace,  that  it  may 
diliiii  more  pientifuilyuponus.  And  thus  by  fetching  fu- 
pcrMarurall  cfficacie  from  the  death  and  liteofChrift,  it 
changctii  the  bcart,creatcs  and  infufeth  new  principles  of 
adion,  bcgjtteth  a  plyable  wiilingneflc  unto  every  thing 
that  ib  good ,  and  convcigheth  both  will  and  ability  thcrc- 
U'ito:  as  the  medicine  curigthe  vitious  ftomacke,  and 
reftoring  it  to  health,  makes  it  long  f^r  wholfome  mcatc, 
as  b:  f ^'■e  for  coales  and  ffhes.    B>  the  precious  promifies 
whi^h  we  I  ave  from  God  (  when  they  are  ours  by  fait'r  ) 
we  arc  made  partakers  of  the  divine  nature,  or  the  graces 
1  oftheHolyGhoft. 
Th   true  can  rc\    The  prcpoRcrous  care  and  travell  of  many  wel-afFe(flcd, 
Tvhi  mea  hibeur]  is  to  be  pittisd,  who  ftudie  the  pracflifc  of  ibis  or  that 
ainetopra-'^  vcrtue,  neglediing  thiscardinalland  radicall  vertue  ;  as  if 
mC'i  ftiould  water  all  the  branches  of  a  Tree,  and  not  the 
root.    Faine  would  they  abound  and  fhiiein  patience, 
m'  ekneflcjzeale,  yer  eftablilh  and  root  not  themfelves  in 
faith,  that  fhould  maintaine  all  t'  e  reft.     Jf  water  come 
not  to  the  co;  ke,  we  ufc  to  open  or  amend  the  pipes  or 
leadcs  that  convi  igh  if  from  the  fpring  :  Chrift  is  the 
[  wel- fpring  of  grace  ;  if  we  would  have  our  wants  fup- 
1  plied,  we  muR  labour  ftedfaftly  to  believe.   All  defects  in 
\  fandificatioH  mull  admonifh  us  to  lookc  to  our  faith. 
I  Third  drives  men  to  tliefpringscf  water;  coldforceth 
I  them  to  ihc  fire  ;  weaknes  or  want  ofgracc  fhould  move 
I  us  to  come  unto  Chrift  by  a  lively  feith.     Oh,  every  one 
that  thirfieth  come  jfe  to  tbt  rvaters.    To  give  way  to 
] doubting 


SCiy.fj.i. 


t4- 


thefromfts  of  SM^ifieaiiony^c, 


24  J 


doubcitig  bccaafc  the  graces  oi  Gods  Spirit  be  wcake  and 
feeble  in  us,  is  as  it  a  aim  ihould  refuic  to  catc,  becaufe  he 
is  faint  for  wane  of  jGiL^cnance. 

.  Sc  v^nthd  yaTruc  feitb  iHrrecb  up  to  tbankfalncffe  for  the 
beginning  of  Salification.  Ithduk?  ^od  thr  0149b  lefus 
Chrifi  our  Lord.So  then  Tfith  the  mindi  Imj  felfejcrve  the 
Law  of  God.  The  lead  nrteailirc  oFfandi^ying  grace  is  in  it 
felfe  an  unlpcakeablc  bcncfir,  confidcring  the  poyfonof 
our  corrupt  nature;. and  alfo  a  pledge  of  ttiture  favours  to 
.be  received,  (ill  tj^eworkeiwc  perfeifled.  i-^iod. -in  great 
wifdoine  powreth  ihe  graces  of  his  Spirit  upon  as  by  d^- 
grees,and  doth  not  pertsdly  f  indlifie  us  at  once,  leaft  we 
f^uld  forget  What  great  things  he  doth  for  us  in  forgi- 
ving pi^i?  daily  rrefpaffcb,  and  ciring  th*  grievous  and 
fjoathfoipe UifcafcsoFour  polluted  fonk's :  -blit  the  begin- 
ning of  iaivflificaci  ?n  u  an  earneft  of  further  gr&cfe  to  bee 
vouchfafed,  till  the  worke  be  finillicd  to  the  praifc  of  his 
grace,  which  doth  appeare  the  more,  in  that  the  gifts  of 
grace  are  communicated  by  degrees. 

The  way  or  ineancs  wlicrcby  a  Chriftian  ma^  [^irre  up 
his  faith  to  believe  that  God  will  fan(flifie  him,  When  Iiee 
,  feethnothing but thraldome and  fin  prevailing,and  fecleth 
nothing  but  deadnefTc  of  hearr,is  this. 

Firft,  he  mail  bewailc  his  fpiriuallnakeln^ffe,  thral- 
dome and  valTalage  under  (inne ;  acknowledging  his  ina- 
bility to  free  and  deliver  himfeUe.   Into  what  mifery  and 
bondage  have  I  brought  my  fclfe.  Thou  Lord  ma^eft  me 
ho'y,purc,and  upright :  But  by  finne  I  f  ild  ny  fclfc-  unto 
the  Icrvice  of  finne,  from  which  to  this  day  I  cannot  'ijct 
deliverance:    Every  faculty  of  foule  is  dec  ply  infe<'led 
with  that  contagious  leprofic  ;  the  Mind  is  blindc  vainc, 
foolifh  ;  the  will  perverfe  and  rebellious :  all  the  aft.'sfti- 
ons  out  of  order  :  there  is  nothing  whole  or  found  with- 
,  in  rac.Nightandday  I  am  peftcred  with  finfull  m">tions. 
The  dcfiresofmy  linfuU  heart  bee  foftrong  and  prevai- 
ling, that  I  am  carried  head-long  to  that  which  is  evill 
The  body  is  wearie  afccr  labour,  and  re<^iircs  ted,  but 
,       R  3  fi ' 


7. 

Rom. 7. 2  J. 


I  Cor. i.f. 

I  Thcff.y.»4, 
Rom  1  i.zj 


The  meaner  ti 
fiirrcup  to  b<y 
lieve  that  God 
rxiill  andifie, 
n>hen  re  c  fee 
nothing  hut 
tbraUome. 
Z. 


^y 


14^ 


Rom  7.i4» 


Rom.7'^» 


what  it  is  to  liveb^  Faith  touching 


fin  is  ever  ftirring,  never  quiet,  no  not  when  occafions 
be  wanting.  And  that  it  might  appeare  out  of  meafurc 
finfiill,  it  takes  occafionby  the  commandcmenr,  itreii- 
ftetbthe  good  motions  of  the  Spirit,  it  difinablethto  eve- 
ry good  worke,  it  diffufeth  its  venome  into  every  adion, 
and  leadeth  captive  to  the  committing  of  finne  againft 
I  knowledge  and  confcience.  The  curfed  earth  is  not  fo  apt 
;  to  be  over-growne  with  weedes,  bryars,  thornes  and 
tthiftles.  as  the  foulc  with  lufts,    palTions,  diftempers, 
{  worldly  cares,  and  finfuU  dcHghts.    Thclawofthcflefli 
rcbelleth  againft  the  law  of  the  minde,  and  carrieth  with 
violence  to  the  workes  of  darkeneflc.  The  Gally-flaves 
condition  is  very  hard  and  miferable :  but  the  fpirituall 
bond-flaveisinfarreworfe  eftate.  No  drudgery  fobafc 
as  the  fervice  of  fin,  no  Tyrant  fo  cruell  as  fin,  which 
allowes  no  refpitc,  or  time  of  refrefhing.    O  miferable 
man  that  lAm,  who  fhall  deliver  me  jrom  this  dominion 
of  Jin,  thi4  bodie  of  death.    I  have  deeply  defiled  my 
felfe  by  tranfgreflion,  but  have  no  power  to  clenfc  my 
heart :  O  Lordj  I  have  defaced  thine  Image,  but  cannot 
repaire  it :   I  have  ycelded  the  powers  of  my  foulc  to  the 
obedience  of  fin,and  now  I  would  caft  off  that  fubjedion 
andbreakethofcfnare^,  lam  altogether  unfufficiem for 
it.  when  I  would  doe  well^  eviltis  prefent  rvithmee  :     but 
I  finde  no  meancs  to  pcrfcd  what  I  defire.  I  cannot  defirc 
good,  my  will  is  foin  bondage  :  I  amnotabletocrawlc 
about  the  doing  of  that  which  is  good,  fuch  is  my  fee- 
blenefle  ;  butlwantnoftrengthtothat  which  is  evill,  I 
am  apt  and  ready  to  goe  aftray.  I  am  invironed  and  befet 
with  fin  on  every  fide;  oh,  when  fhall  I  be  fet  at  liberty, 
that  I  might  doc  the  work  of  God,and  run  the  race  of  his 
Commandements, 

Secondly. He  muft  looke  to  the  grace,truth,and  power 

.ofGodjWhohathpnmiifedtofan^ifie  ;  to  the  fullnefle 

and  fufficiencie  chat  is  iu  Chrift,  the  fountaine  of  grace. 

He  who  hath  fpcken  this  to  me,Hold  me,  and  I  uill  fet 

|thee  free,  I  wjillcircumcifethyhearr,  wa£h  it,  purge  it, 

I  hcalc 


thefromifes  of  San6fificatioffy^c. 


healc  it  of  all  fickncffcs  and  infirmities :  he  that  hath  fpo- 
kcnitjis  God  Almighty,  who  givcth,  Being  toallvifiblc 
creatures, and  that  invifibic  world  ot  Spirits  :  who  calleth 
the  things  that  are  not,as  if  they  were  :  who  if  there  were 
no  print  of  thefe  thinc^s  in  mc,can  worke  ^nd  create  them 
glorioufly,as  atfirfthe  drew  this  excellent  frame  of  the 
world  out  of  that  confufed  lumpe,  or  MafTe  which  hee 
made  of  nothing.  And  as  he  is  great  in  powter,  fo  is  he 
rich  in  mercy,  aboundant  in  goodnefle  and  truth ;  as  ready 
and  faithfull  to  kecpc,  as  he  was  free  to  make  the  pro- 
mife.  His  grace  is  unfearchable,  his  Word  purer  then  fil- 
verfeven  times  refined.  In  uiy  fclfc  I  am  full  of  firine, 
barren  and  deftitute  of  grace  ;  but  C\\ri[\  is  an  over- 
flowing fountainc,who  hath  plentifully  filled  all  that  be- 
lieve. A'l  the  faithfull  have  dra  wne  of  his  fullncfle,  and 
yet  his  ftore  is  no  whit  diminidicd.  O  my  foule,trufl:  thou 
in  the  Lord, and  thou  {halt  be  purged  from  thy  filthinelTc, 
replenifhed  with  his  grace.  Loe,  he  calleth  the  thirftie, 
who  be  dcftituta  of  all  fap  and  fruit  of  gracc,to  come  unto 
him,  that  they  may  be  refreihed.  The  Saints,  who  have 
becnc  moftcnriched  with  variety  of  graces,  were  by  na- 
ture as  poore  and  deftitute  as  thou  art.  What  they  had, 
they  received  by  faith-.Believe  as  theydid,andrpced  with 
them.  Why  cricft  thou  out  dift  ruftfuUy  by  rcafon  of  thy 
barrcnnc{Te?Doth  the  ftrcamingfountainc  dcnie  water  to 
the  thirfty  traveller  ?  No  more  doth  Chrift  to  the  cmptie 
parched  loule,  that  comes  unto  him.  Thou  haft  no  grace 
of  thy  felfc  :  cleave  unto  him  and  thou  fhaltwant  none 
that  may  be  for  thy  good.He  fillcth  the  craipty,  and  fatisfi- 
cth  the  poore,  that  he  might  be  acknowledged  the  well- 
fpring  of  all  grace  and  goodnefle. 

Thirdly,He  muft  pray  inftantly  unto  the  Lord  for  fan- 
(Sifying  grace.  Faith  obtaineth,  as  a  poore  petitioner, 
what  the  Lord  prq^ifeth  in  fpeciall  favour:  nor  can  it  ba** 
lievc  longer,  then  it  pray eth  virtually  or  aftuall^,  O 
Lord,  thou  haft  promifed  to  powre  water  upo»  thethirfijj 
and  rivers  upotf. the  dry  ground:  I  pray  thcc,  wafh  mec 
I  R  4  throughly 


247 


3. 


Efay  44,i.&' 
Ioeli.i8. 


24B 


Zcch,i3.i. 


Wh/tt  It  is  to  live  bj  Tmh  concermng 


:riirciiQbly  from  myfilthineffe,  and  wattr  me  bountiful- 
'■■  J«  VMith  d.c  dew  of-  thy  grace,  which  may  eoolc  and  altay 
'  the  fcorcl  inp  hcarc  ot liune.  Thou  hafi  opened  a  fonntaine 
\  t9  th  hctffe  r/David,  andfo  the  inhabitants  of  Jerufalem 
\  for  fit*  and  for  uncle  Anttejfe  :  let  the  ftrcames  thereof  flow 
,  upon  my  dric  and  barren  foulc,  that  k  may  be  fruicfuH  in 
]  the  workcs  of  holinefle.  O  put  thy  good  Spirit  into  me, 
I  which  may  be  as  a  fountaine  of  living  waters  fpringing 
'  unto  ctcrnall  life. 

"Fourthly,  It  is  good  to  move  and  quicken  the  heart 
quietly  to  reft  in  the  promifc,and  rcj  n  cc  in  hope.  Waitc 
oil  the  Lord,  Omyfoule,  and  be  glad  in  him:  forhec 
harh  qi  ven  Chrift  to  be  thy  Sandification.  He  is  appoin- 
ted to  be  the  beginner  and  finifherof  thy  holinefle  :  and 
furely  he  v.  ill  not  leave  that  worke  imperfcd-,whcreunto 
he  is  ordained  of  the  father.  Were  the  progreffe  of  that 
building  committed  to  thy  care  and  ovcr-fighr,;  there 
might  be  caufeof  fcarc:but  fincc  it  is  laid  upon  him,thine 
onely  and  all-fufftcient  Redeemer^  there  is  no  place  for 
doubting.  Hold  himfaft,  and  thou  art  fafe.  Lord  in- 
creafc  my  faiih,and  kcepc  me  clofeutito  thee  in  believing 
for  evermore. 


-|( 


CHAP.  nil. 

anori  'jWh^Ui^toiwclfy  faith  cdticermngt^ 
-  •   >  v^frtm^xivfASi&U^i^fMfp^         .    :. 

S  if  it  were  a  light  thing,  that  God  fliould  forgive 

.all  our  finncs,  and  heale  our  infirmities,  he  hath  gi- 

Pfal.10  j.3,4.  ( V€n  promifcof  evctkfting  life  to  be  conferred  of  Hs  ri^h 

Ete'rnau'iife  U  gtftcc  Upon  thcTUt^flt  belicve  in  J^6ip Chrift.  Godfo  ht^d 

the  w,oridithat  ire^iivehii  tnlfhegbtten  S^»ythat  whofoevtr 

f^eHe^eth  ^  him,Jhould  not  -perijhy  hui^  ^ave  ever  lading  life; 

And  Gbrift  hath  purchafcd  life  cverlafting  no  kffc  for  us; 

■  i  then 


i 


Ipromijed 
I  lohn  g.if. 


ihefrcptifes  oferuerlajling  life. 


then  righteoufncffe  ;  By  the  bloudof  lefm  wc  may  be  bold 
to  enter  into  the  Holiefl^  by  the  new  And  living  rcAj  which  he 
hath  confccratedfor  uj, through  the  vat/e,  that  is  tefay^  Hi* 
pfh,  Tor  this  cauje  he  is  the  C^fediatour  of  the  New  7>- 
fiamenty  thathym^anesofdeAtU^forthe  redemption  of  the 
trA»fgreffionSy  that  were  under  the  frfl  Tefiament^  they 
which  are  ialied,  might  receive  the  promife  of  cternaU  in- 
heritance. And  therefore  as  he  is  faid  to  have  made  recon- 
ci/iAtion  for  ini<jfiityy  and  to  have  brought  in  everla- 
fiing  righteotifne^e :  foalfoto^^r/tf  aboltihfd  dea^h,and 
hroHght  life  and  immortality  to  U^ht.  And  he  makes  pro- 
mile  of  cverlafting  hfe  to  them  that  heare  and  obey  hii 
voice.  *  C^iyjheefe  hearc  my  voice,  and  I  kMorr  thew^and 
they  follow  me  ;  <iyfnd  [give  unto  them  eterna'l  Iff^ttnd  they 
JhaU  never  pert Jh.  ^  In  the  Gofpcll  wc  finde  cternall  lite 
promifed  upon  condition  of  faith  in  Chrift  ;  'Believe  on 
the  Lard  lejus  Chrtfy  and  thou  Jhalt  bee  fave.i  :  and  what 
God  promifeth  of  free  grace,  that  faith  doth  certainely 
receive. 

Life  is  promifed  upon  condition  of  Faith,and  by  faith 
wc  arc  quickened,  entitled  unto,  and  made  partakers  of 
life  cvcrlafting.  Hee  that  believcth  on  the  Sonne^hathever- 
ittfiing  liff  ;  He  thof  heareth  my  fVerd^  and believeth  on  him 
thatfent  me,  hath  overlaying  Ife,  andf^allnot  come  into 
j  con.-femnAtionybut  hath pajfed  from  death  to  life.    This  is  the 
j  reeordythat  (^od  hath  given  to  m  eternaU  life,  andthus  life 
\  is  in  hi^  Sonne,  Hce  that  hath  the  Sonne  hath  life ;  and  hee 
i  that  hath  n-at  tlMr  Son,hath  not  life.  If  once  wc  be  brought 
to  believe  in  Chrift,  life  etermllis  then  be^un  in  us.  This  , 
ts  life  eternally  to  know  (that  is,  with  the  knowledge  ofj 
ildth'Stheeto  be  theonely  true  God,  and  left**  (^hrijl  vchom  ' 
thoH  hafi  [ent.  For  C^njl  «  our  life^rrho  dire  Is  in  our  hearts  '■ 
.^/Aif^j.'  li^d therefore  wholoever  believe inbim,  have  j 
jjtfethrai^h  and  with  bim.   And  this,  life  is  not  anohcr,  i 
W  one  i«fpc-ftaf.ce  with  that  bleflld  and  glorious- cOatCj 
whicijthcSai^Jts enjoy  in  Heaven,  though  ciffercnt  iit 
i3cgi«Cv  Ag^iinc,  when  firft  wc  believe,^  then  wee  are  in- 
.,.. ;,      '  titulcd 

-T— li* . 


249 


Hcb.io.i9jXO. 
Hcb.p.if. 


I  Dan.9.Z4. 
i  T,m,i.io. 


ajoh.io  27, 

i«. 

^Mark  \6,\t 

Acls  l».5  I. 

Ioh.6.40.;& 

30.3  I. 


lohn  5,56. 

John  J. 24. 

I  Joh.5.11, 
12,13. 

John  17.3. 


Col.3.4. 
£plKC3.i7. 


f^ 


250 


1  Pet.  1.3  H- 


Tit.j.j. 


Rom. ^.10. 

Verfe  i/. 


lohn  1.12. 

1  loh.j.iji. 

Gal.;.  15.29. 
Gal.4.4,5. 


What  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  concerning 

ticulcd  to  life  everlafting,and  fohave  the  accompliflimcnt 
ot  glory  in  rcfpe(5t  of  right  and  proprictic.    BU^edbe  the 
GodAndTatherefour  Lordleftti  Chrifi,  which  according 
to  his  Abundant  mercy,  hath  begotten  m  againe  unto  4  live- 
ly hopCf  by  the  refurreEiion  of  lefus  from  the  dead.  To  an 
inheritance  incorruptible ,  and  undefiled,  and  that  fadeth 
notaroay.    That  being  juHified  by  his  grace,   vfce  Jhonld 
bee  made  heires  according  to  the  hope  of  eternall  life.  For 
if  when  we  were  enemies  ^  wee  were  reconciled  to  God,  by 
the  death  of  his  Sonne :    Vit4ch  more  heing  reconciled,  wee 
fhallbefavedbyhis  life.     They  which  receive  abundance 
of  grace,  and  of  the  gift  of  righteoufnejfe,  /hall  raigne  in 
life  by  one  lefm  Chrift.    To  an  earthly  inheritance  title 
foUoweth  upon  the  birth ;  to  the  fpirituall  upon  our 
Adoption.    But  when  we  believe  in  Chrift,  wc  arc  then 
made  the  Sonnes  of  God  by  Adoption,  yea,  fonncs  ac- 
cepted. To  as  many  as  received him^  to  them  gave  heepri- 
viledge  to  become  the  Sonnes  of  (Jod,  even  to  them  that 
believe  on  his  Name.    Behold,  what  manner  of  loi;e  the 
Father  hat-h  bfjlowed  upon  us,  that  wee  fhould  bee  called 
the  Sonnes  of  ^od.    'Beloved ^  now  are  wee  the  Sonnet  of 
I  God,  and  it  doth  not  yet  appeare,  what  wee  fhall  bee.     For 
ye  are  all  the  children  of  God  by  faith  in  Chrifl  lefm  ,<:^c, 
dAnd  if  yee  bee  Chrifls,    then  are  yee  Abrahams  feed, 
and heiret  according  to  the  promife.     TVhen  the  fullne^e  of 
time  was  come,     God  fent  forth   his   Sonne  made  of  a 
wormian,  made  under  the  Law,  to  redeeme  them  that  are 
under  the  Law,  that  we  might  receive  the  adoption  of  Sons, 
wherefore  thou  art  no  more  afervantjbut  afonne  ;  andif  a 
fonne,  then  an  heire  efGod  through  Chrifi.  For  as  many  as 
are  led  by  the  Spirit  of  God,  they  are  the   Sonnes  of  God. 
&c.   \Andif  children,  then  heires  ^  heires  of  God,  and  jojnt 
i  V  r               heires  with  Chrifi,  And  for  this  caufe  the  faithfiill  arc  cal- 
^Heb.rri-*.    ^^^  *  ^^^   Church  of  the  fir fl  begotten  whofe  names  are 
TherefoYe  »ce   "f^^^ten  in  Heaven.]<^ow  if  ctcrnaTllife  be  promifcd  in  thc 
mttfi  believe  it.  Gofpell,  pur  chafed  by  Chrift,and  in  right  and  title  belong 
unto  the  faithfull,  wc  may  conclude  it  is  our  part  and 
. _duty 


Vaife  7. 


Rom. 8. 14, 


thefromfes  ofcuerlafiing  life. 


251 


It  h  very  we* 
^ejfatj/  to  he 
lieve  it, 

I. 

Kcb.io.35,34 


H^b.ii.J 

10, 


duty  to  believe  in  God  through  Jcfus  [Chrift,  as  well  For 
the  obtaining  of  eternal!  life  to  be  given  of  grace,  as  the 
forgivencflc  of  our  fins. 

And  this  is  rcceflary,  that  wee  might  with  the  more 
quietnefTc  of  mindc  beare  the  afflidions  and  worldly  lof- 
fes,  the  troubles  and   perfecution,    which  befall  us  in 
this   world.     C^fi  not   Away   therefore  your  confidence, 
rvhich  hath  great  recompence   of  revrard  :   for  jee  have 
need  cf  patience t  that  after jee  have  done  thevcill  of  G^dy 
jee  might  receive  the  promife.   Abraham  is  commended 
in  Scripture,  that  he  left  his  friends,  his  native  Countrie, 
and  all  earthly  hopes  there,  which  were  not  fraall,  and 
came  to  dwell  in  aftrange  Land,  as  aPiigrime,  where 
he  fiiflFered  many  injuries,  and  was  exercifed  with  many 
troubles  of  fundric  kinds ;  all  which  hee  endured  with 
invincible  patience,  by  the  hope  and  dellrc  of  eternall 
Iife,and  that  heavenly  Countrie  whcrcunro  he  was  called. 
The  hope  of  heaven  is  the  firme  and  fure  anchor  of  the 
foulc,  to  fuQaine  and  ftablifh  it,  that  it  be  net  tofled 
upanddownc,  and  over-whelmed  with  reproaches  and 
indignities  offered,  with  the  worldly  lodes  and  mifcrics 
of  this  life. 

It  fcrves  alfoto  eftablilli  cur  hearts  againft  fundry 
worldly  cares  and  feares:  aflecflation  ofcanhly  grcatnefl'e 
and  carking  for  earthly  neceffaries.  For  why  Qiould  we 
admire  the  glory  of  this  life,  when  moft  excellent  glory, 
riches  and  happines  joyned  with  it,  is  prepared  and  given 
us  through  ftith  in  Chrift?  Why  (liquid  wee  doubt  of 
earthly  neceffaries,  when  God  hath  bequeathed  unto  us 
an  heavenly  kingdome.  Faith  in  Chrirt,  to  receive  an  in- 
corruptible crowne  of  glory;  will  moderate  defircs  of 
earthly  things,  that  we  flball  neither  admire,  nor  afpire 
after  great  things  below,  nor  bafcly  diftruft  the  Lord  for  I 

Jfupply  of  what  he  knowes  meete  and  convenient  for  u<^.  j 
f-e^ire  not  lift  Is  fiocke^for  it  is  your  Fathers  good  pleafnre  to  \  Luke  1132. 
give jcH  the  Kingdome,  •  I 

I     If  we  keepe  Heaven  in  our  eye,  and  looke  to  the  high  3. 

„___  price  I 


s9> 


He  b,  6. 19, 


2. 


252 


Wh/itit  is  to  live  by  Faithconammg 


1  Cor.9.25, 

Hcb.ii.j  J, 
Heb,i2.j,i. 


Tbc  aSff  of 
faith  comer- 
ning  thefefro- 
mifes. 
I. 

*  Ephcf.i.8. 


Afts  16  3  I. 

Rom. 5. 2. 
Kona.io.  JO* 


Roin,4.i<5. 


Rom.  10. 1 1. 


2. 


price  of  our  calling,  wcc  fhall  fight  coiiragioufly,  and 
mnnc  with  patience,  notwithiUrding  ah  oppoficion. 
What  caa  dauiic  him  ia  the  waics  of  godlincffe,  or  inakc 
hirnflacke  his  pace,  whoninnes  to  obtainc  nocacorrup- 
tiblc.bat  an  incor.^uptible  crovvne  ?  BjfAithfom^wtre 
tortitredy  not  accepttrt^  deliverance,  that  they  tnijht  *^- 
taine  a  better  refurreBion,  Let  ut  runne  withpatienee  unto 
the  TAce  th.1t  isfet  before  ns,Loekiv^  ftnto  lefus,  the  Amhor 
and  finifher  of  oHT  faith,  who  for  the  joy  (hat  was  Jh  before 
h'<my€nduredthe cro^'e^de^ijlng the  {harrte^  a*fdiifet dswne at 
the  rtght  hand  of  the  throne  of  God. 

The  a<as  of  faith  concerning  thefc  promifcs  bee 
thefc. 

Firft,  A5  an  humble  petitioner  icreceiveth  andlajrcth 
hold  upon  falvatio.)  it  fclfc  promifed,which  wccharc  of 
Gods  grace,  as  well  as  any  benefit  tending  thereunto.  As 
we  are  /u^^ified  by  faith,  fo  we  are  *  favedhj  faith ;  ii«t 
inrefpecflot  prcfentfalvation  or  redemption,  whereof 
here  we  afe  partakers,  but  in  rcfpeft  of  glorification  to 
com  *,in  due  time  to  be  revealed.  Believe  on  the  Lordlefus, 
and  thoti  (halt  beefaved.  By  faith  wee  have  accede  into  thii 
grace  fwherein  we  ^aiid,    and  rejoyce  in  the  hope  of  glory. 
When  the  Apoftle  faith,    With  the  heart  Man  believeth 
unto  righteoitfneffey  an  J  with  the  mouth  confejfton  is  made 
I  unto  falvation.Hcdoih  not  fo  diftinguifh  thefe  two,  as  if 
faith  were  the  caufe  of  righteoufnefle,confcflfion  of  falva- 
tion ;  or  as  if  faith  were  futiicient  to  rigbteoufnelTe,  but 
not  to  falvation  :  for  he  had  often  faid,  thatwearefaved 
by  faith, that  the  promifi  is  by  faith :   But  he  defcribes  the 
qualification  oFthat  faith  which  juftifyeth  and  faveth, 
namely, that  it  is  a  ftedfaft  affiance,  that  fiyeth  to  God  by 
hearty  fupplication,  and  brcaketh  forth  into  profefTion  of 
Gods  name ,    The  promife  is,  ivhofoever  fhall  call  upan  the 
name  of  the  Lord  fhall  befaved :  and  faith  herein,flyeth  to 
the  throne  of  grace  with  ardent  fupplications,  and  layetW 
hold  of  fslvation  promifsd  of  grace. 

Secondly,  laith  doth  not  begin  to  apprehend  life,  and 

then 


the  fremifes  oft^erUjiing  life. 


253 


t^ph  x.«.9,ic. 
Gil  3.18. 

t  Tim.  1,1 8. 
H-om  s  a  I, 


tijcn  leave  i  to  workes  that  wc  migbt  attainc  the  accom- 
pliftitr.cntby  t' cm,  but  it  doth  ever  reft  U|:onthcpro- 
miic,  untill  wc  come  to  enjoy  it.    Heaven  is  an  inheri- 
tance freely  vouch  fa  fed  to  the  adopted  fonncsol-GQdj 
whofc  intcreft  u  to  it  comincth  by  believing,  rot  by  v\  or- 
k{x]^,Thegift  cfgodisettrnaH  Hfe  threft^h  Itjiu  Chrjfi  §ttr 
Lord  :  and  if  it  be  a  gift  of  mccrc  favour,  it  cannot  be  of 
workes.     IfthcinheritdrtceheoftheLiVfly  ii  is  vn  m^re  of 
fromtje :  kt*t  God  ^ Ave  tt  to  Abrahun  hy  promife,    A«d 
iha't  which  God  will  do  sbou:  hischidren  irt  t!c<foy  of 
judgement,  is  called  mercy  -,  Ti^c  Lordjhew  mercy  tt  One- 
fiphorus  m  that  day.  The  immediate  caufc  of  life  is  Gods 
grace,  as  the  immediate  caufc  of  death  is  fin.    But  if  life  , 
be  of  grace,  it  is  by  faith.    *  Wcarc  kept  by  the  p9wer  gf  4  ,  pct,,  - 
Godthr'OHgh  faith  Unto  (atvAtioM,   So  tb^t  our  faith  never  j 
gives  over,  till  wc  come  to  be  a<5fually  poflcfTtd  of  th? 
imraortall  and  undeftled  inheritance,  rcitrved  for  us  in  \ 
Heaven. 

'  Tiiirdly,  By  faith  we  receive  the  promifi-d  Spirir,is  iloc 
earneft  of  our  inheritance,  untiil  the  rcden^pcion  of  the 
purchjfed  pcflelTion.    Beennleyc  are fonnts^Godhaikftftt 
forth  the  Spirit  ofhu  Son  into  your  hfArts^ryimr^AObA  Fa-  \  Ezek  jo  ig 
ther,  Tl->c  Holy  Ghoft  doth  firftinfuferhe  grace  of  faith  I  Gal.^.6. 
into  our  hearts,  whereby  we  believe  :  bur  believing,  and    K.om.8.i5. 
being  made  the  {bnnes  of  CT<5d,we  receive  tbcSpirit  more  i  .  : 
fliUy  and  manifeftly,  dwelling  in u^  to  iandification  ,  and  i 
afifurance  of  our  redemption.    By  the  benehtoftht  holy  j 
Ghoft  faith  fprmgeth  in  us,  by  which  faith  the  abundance 
of  thefelfc-fame  fpirit  isincreafcd;  and  {(^  dfapreater  j 
faith  is  flill  made  a  greater  incre>fe  of  the  Spirit.  Jnrohom  '  p  .  /- 
after  jee  believed^jet  wtre  fealed  with  the  Spirit  efp*0wife.  \  ^^[^j^ '  **  g^* 
He  that  helieveth,    out  of  his  heUy  fha//  flow  rivers  of  Ivinq^  j 
Tf^ater,  And  thefc  gifts  of  tlx  Spirit,  which  we  receive  by  1 
faith  from  Chrift  our  Head-arc  the  beginningsof  that  glo- 
rious life  wc  cxpcd  nd  looke  for  ;  one  in  fub(-lance,diffc- 
rent  in  degree*  :  and  according  to  the  meaiurc  of  grace 
received,  fo  is  the  life  of  glory  begun  in  us. 
"Fourthly, 


Gal 


J.H. 


254 


4. 
Mitch.5.zi. 


Roni.8.15. 
Gal.6.3. 


M-ittli.S.8. 
Heb.ri.i4- 


I  Tim.^,17, 
18, ij. 


lude  Vcrfe  20. 

XI. 

Jam,i.i».iy. 
Matth.2y.j4. 

3  J- 


Whdt  it  is  to  U^c  hj  Faith  concermn^ 

Fourthly,  Faith  in  the  promUes  of  cvcrUfting  life,  Ica- 
dcth  forward  in  the  pachcs  of  peace  and  righceoufneffe  : 
It  mortifycth  corruption,  ftudyeth  holinellc,  raifcth  the 
heart  to  things  above,  and  direi^eth  the  convcrfation 
according  to  the  pollicic  of  the  new  Urufdem,    Life 
cternall  is  not  given  for  workes,  but  it  is  the  good  plea- 
furcotGDd,  that  his  children  ftiould  be  holy  andexcr- 
cife  themiclves  in  all  good  workes.  Ifyef  through  the  Spi' 
rit  doe  mortifie  the  deeas  efthe  body,  jee  fJjAll  live.  Hee  th^t 
fowethto  thf  Spirit,  jh^llofthe  Spirit  reape  life  ever Ufiing* 
Blejfcd  are  the  pure  in  heart ,  for  they  fhxHfee  God,   Follow 
peace  vcilh  all  men,  andholinejfey  withoHt  which  nomdnjhall 
fee  the  Lord.     Charge  them  that  be  rich  in  this  world,  that 
they  be  not  hifh  minded^nor  trnfi  in  aneertaine  riches^  but  in 
the  living  God,  rvho  giveth  rtchly  alt  things  to  enjoy,  T'hat 
they  doe  goody  that  they  be  rich  in  good  worses , ready  to  difiri~ 
bnte,  Tvillinf  to  communicate  ;    Laying  Mp  in  (tore  for  them- 
(elves  a  good  foundation  againfi  the  time  to  come,  that  they 
mAy  lay  hold  oh  eternaH  life,    Butyee  beloved,  building  up 
your  felveSy  in  your  mojt  holy  faith,  praying  in  the  mly 
Ghof}-,  keepe  your  felves  in  the  love  of  God,  looking  for  the 
mereie  of  our  Lord  lefns  Chrift  unto  eternaH  life.    Come 
yee  ble(fed  of  my  Father,    inherit  the  kingdome  prepared 
for y  OH  from  the  foundation  of  the  rcorU.  For  I  was  hungred, 
and  fee  gave  me  meate,c^c,  Thefe  and  fuch  like  pafl'agcs  of 
Scripture  fhew^not  the  caufc  why,but  the  qualification  of 
the  perfons  unto  whom ;  not  how  it  is  defervcd^but  what 
doth  precede  the  beftowingoflife  cternall.    And  faith, 
that  looketh  for  that  bleffed  hope,  and  laycth  hold  upon 
the  promife  of  that  heavenly  and  incorruptible  inheri- 
tance, lifteth  up  the  heart  into  Heaven  ,  kindleth  love, 
inflameth  with  zealc,   encourageth  againft  difficultic*, 
and  inciteth  to  run  the  way  of  Gods  Commandenaent*. 
If  probable   hope  of  great  advantage  drawcs  on  the 
Merchant  to  undertake  a  long  and  tedious  voyage  by 
Sea,    notwithftanding  the-  many  cafualties  and  perils 
wherewith  it  is  befct  :  faith  in  the  afifured  promifes  of  i 

Godi 


thefromfes  of  €*verlafling  life 


\'  u 


255 


Phil.  5  20. 
Col.  1.3,4,5. 


Heb.ii,ij,i, 


God  concerning  falvation,  will  fctaman  forward  in  his 
Chriftian  journey,  hold  him  on  in  his  way  with  courage 
and  chcarcfulnefle ;  and  hearten  him  to  the  workesof 
godlincffe,  notwithftanding  the  temptations  of  Sathan,- 
the  allurements  of  the  world  ,    or  oppofitions  oF  the 
flcfhtothecontrarir.  Our converfation i6 i»  Heaven^from 
whence  alfo   vcee   looke  for  the  Saviour^    the  Lord  Teftu 
C^rifi,    Wee  give  thankes  to  (jody  and  Since  tree  hcArdcf 
yeur  faith  in  Cbrift  lefntt  and  of  the  love  which  jee  have  to 
aU  the  Saints  y  For  the  hope  vhich  ii  laid  up  for  you  in  Hea~ 
"ven.  By  faith  ^brahaniy  Ifaac,  and  lacoh^  confcffcd  that 
they  were  pilgrimes  and  ftrangers  on  the  earth,  and  ha- 
ving opportunity  would  nor  returne  into  their  own  conn-  i 
trcy,  bccaufc  they  dcfired  a  better  countrcy,  that  is,  an  J 
heavenly.  j 

Fiftly,  It  fecketh  to  get  our  title  confirmed  and  afTu- 
redto  thcconfciencc  by  evidence,  and  earnc(l:,or  pawne  ; 
it  cxercifcth  It  (d^c  upon  the  many  gratious  promifcs, 
whereby  God  doth  freely  pa fl'c  it  upon  us,  andearncftly  |  rfal.i  15,^,6 
beggctb  the  powerfull  efFe<5luall  inhabitation  of  the  Spi- 
rit to  ftampc  and  imprint  the  Image  of  Chrift  more  and 
more  upon  the  foulc ;  it  perufeth  its  evidence  againe  and 
againe,.  and  nouriftieth  the  raoti-ons,  ftirrcth  up  the 
graces  of  the  Spirit,  which  is  tbe  carncft  pennie  ard 
fcalcof  the  promifed  inheritance. If  Men  make  an  earthly 
purchafe,they  will  fpare  no  coft  or  labour  to  get  it  aflured, 
they  will  have  good  evidence,fine  and  recovericjand  take 
what  courfe  in  time  may  exempt  it  from  claime ;  and 
faith  receiving  the  promile  of  this  purchafcd  inheritance, 
will  not  reft  in  uncertainties  or  prefumptions,  but  doth 
travails  to  have  it  affuredly  parted  and  made  upon  the 
foulc. 

Sixtlvy  it  ftrivethto  enter  the  poffeflion  of  this  hea- 
venly kingdomc  bv  dcgrees.Mcn  that  purchafc  an  inheri- 
tance to  come  in  hereafter,  they  ^reghd  if  any  part  fall 
into  their  bands  for  the  prefent,  or  if  they  can  get  fomc 
j  by  parcels,  before  the  whole  be  pofl'efltd.    Fulnefle  of 
[^ glory 


6. 

rhil  3.10.12. 
«3. 


1-4- 


2^6 


7- 


Phil.i.?}. 


Cor.j.r, 


ijah  J.I. 


i  Veifc  z. 
Vcrfc  14. 


iV^df  it  isttiUve  by  Faith cojfcerffmj 


.glory  isr^icrs  cd  t  o  the  life  to  cbtnc  V  but  the  beginnhigt' 

►Q^'gljQr.yj-p^jacc  Qf<jQnlciencc,  joy  in  t^icholy  Ghoft,  and 

ii^iid:ifii;^tisni.  otthe5piric>  are  vouchjfo^-cd  here.  Grace  is; 

ihc  beginning  of  ^lo<-y,  ^iJicl  glory  tlic  perf'edlion  of  grace* 

According  to  the  nicar^rc  oK  grace  receivrd,  and  aswc 

grow  up  in  Sanifl:ification,fo  we  enter  upon  the  poflcffior* 

(;0f  olir  eternall  ipheritajce.'  A»-»4  trueUvely  faithdoth co-, 

[  vccg^^SiGa  more  aud  more,  and  draw  ui»to  it  fclFcfrom 

Chrift&fulti^ffc.   :  \  .    ■>      .  .         A    , 

Sevencliy,  It  tameflly  defires  and  longnh  after  the 
full  accomplifliinenc  oi  glory.  Our  [elves  atfo  tvhtch  have 
the  firfi  jfi'Htts  of  the  Sp'rity  even  rree  onr  f elves  groAne 
Vfithm  oHr  [elves,  vfiAiting  for  the  t^doptfottytovfiitythe 
redempjion  of  the  Bodfr,  .  I  defireto  drparty  and  to  'iie 
tvUh  Chriji,  which  is  farre  hettcr.  Salvation  is  the  end  of 
faith  J  Heaven  the  habitation  or  home  of  the  faithfull. 
For  inthU  we  qroane  eam.isfly,  dejirinif  to  bee  loathed  tipoM 
with  0Hr  houfe,  which  is  from  Heaven.  Naturail  bodics 
move  to  their  proper  place ;  all  living  things  covet  per- 
fe(*lionin  tbeir  ki  d  :  heaven  is  the  proper  place  and  con- 
dition of  the  faithfull,  li  e  everlafting  the  perfeftionof 
faith  :  therefore  if  faith  bee  lively,  it  longeth  after  the 
fruition  of  glory,  and  full  pofleffion  of  the  promifed  in- 
heritance. 

Eightly,  It  affireth  that  we  are  made  heires  of  evefi- 
lading  life,  to  which  God  of  his  grace  will  bring  us  in  bis 
time  appointed.  'Sehold  what  love  the  Father  hath 
heftowed  Hpin  w,  that  wee  Jhould  bee  caBed  the  fonnes  if 
God  ^e loved  now  are  wee  the/onresofGod,  audit  doth 
not  yet  appeare  what  wee  piali  bee :  fVee  kpow  that  wee  have 
paffeJfrom  death  unto  life,  becatife  wee  love  the  brethren. 
Neither  doth  the  manner  of  fpeaking  favour  of  ought 
but  certainty,  neither  cou'dit  agree  with  the  gravity  of 
the  Apoftic  to  fpeake  fo  indefinitely,  lo  indeterininarely 
of  that, ,  whereof  bee  had  no  certainc  ground,  no  firmc' 
refolution,  but  onely  forae  likely  guefle,  or  conj  ccfturalj 
hope.    And  grant  it  of  lohn,  and  the  Apoftles,  that  they 

knew 


the  fromijes  ofcverUfiing  life. 


knew  th^irowiic  Adoption;  and  wc  may  inferrc,  that 
this  knowledge  is  a  priviledgcofal  believers  in  their  mca- 
furc,  as  well  as  theirs.    For  tlie  faith  whereby  they  were 
aflured,wa3  ordinary  ;  the  grounds  ofaflurance  common 
to  them  with  all  true  be'.icvers  ;  the  benefit  it  fclf^  gcnc- 
rall,  not  in  any  fpeciall  manner  appropriated.  What  pro- 
mifcs  foever  concerning  life  and  happinefle  were  made  to 
the  Apoftles,  the  fame  are  made  to  all  believers,  and  con- 
firmed and  fcaled  unto  cbem  after  the  fame  manner.    For 
they  have  all  one  God,   one  Chrift,  one  Spirit,  they 
arc  under  one  Covenant ,  and  live  by  the  lame  faith. 
Tiic  Adoption  of  Believers  iscon(irmed  on  Gods  part  un. 
to  them  by  his  word,  Icalcs,  oath,  pi  dge  and  witnefle  of 
,his  Spirit  with  the  graces  thereof;  And  whit  God  fo 
fufficiently  confirmeth,  we  by  faith  may  receive  it  :  for 
faith  inableth  us  to  believe  what  God  revcaleth. 

Faith  givethaffurancc,  but  every  believer  '\^  not  afllired 
in  himfelfcjuor  \^  any  aflurancc  in  this  Ufe  fo  certaine,that 
it  {%  never  intermixed ,  nor  difturbcd  with  doubtings. 
There  \%  a  ftate  in  which  faith  ilieweth  it  felfe,  rather 
in  earneft  longings  and  pandngs  after  mercy ,  then  in 
ccrtainc  apprcheniion  of  it  :  there  is  a  ftate  of  infan- 
cic,  a  ftate  of  temptation  and  fpirituallconflid,  in  which 
the  foule  cannot  attaine  this  certaintic  and  aflurancc.  And 
even  m  the  grovvnc  and  conrirmed  ftate  the  believer 
mu!^  not  looke  to  walkc  on  fmoothly  without  any  rubs, 
or  to  enjoy  perfed:  aflurancc  without  doubtings  and 
aflaults.  The  aflurancc  of  this  believer  is  an  aflurancc  ai- 
ming and  ftriving  after  aflurancc;  an  aflfurance  wreftling 
and  combating  with  many  aflaults  •,  an  aflurancc  which 
labours  with  continuall  weakenefle,  and  lookes  not  to 
come  to  perfection  but  by  temptations.  But  of  this  be- 
fore. 

j  *  God  \\^.  great  mercy  doth  vouchfafe  to  his  Adopted 
ifonnes  many  excellent  royalties  in  this  life.  They  arc 
j  moft  precious  unto  him,  His  chief e  trfafure.  His  love  for 
i  drlightSi  His  pecttiiar  people,  the  lot  of  his  inberitMHce, 
1  S  His 


2J7 


4-    A 


iPct  r.i. 
I  Joh.i.i. 


Eplacf.4.4,y,5 


Pfal.  ?!.»». 

&  77-7- 

Pr3l.4i.j. 

&4J.5. 

*  Exod.iQ.f. 

PraI.ijT.4. 

Can  t.  7.6. 

Pfal.i6.y. 

Dcut.52.9. 

Pfal.8}.j. 


258 


what  it  is  to  li've^y  Faith  cencerning 


Mai.  3. 17. 
Zach.».8. 
Pfal.  108.6. 
&  137.2. 
C3nr.8.6. 

Joh  14.2^. 

lofll.I.J). 

&  III. J. 
Pra[.7  5.a?. 
rial.  27. 5. 
I  Sam. 1.9. 
Pfil.56.8. 
Matth.  10.30. 
Pral.58.9. 
Jer  3  1. 10. 
DcLit.53.19* 

1  Pet. 5. 10. 
Pliil,4.i9. 
Pfal. 16.2,6,7. 

&  7i,y. 

lQcl.3.16. 

2  Cor.1.3. 
Pfal.x5.t2. 
Hcb  13.21. 
ExO(l.i9.46. 
Pv.ev.21. 3. 
2Chron.i6.9 

Pfal.37.4 
&  145.19. 
Pfov.  10.24. 

Heb.1.14. 
pfal.34.7. 

iCoi-.3.2»,23 
Keb  1.7.8. 
I  Tini.4.2,3. 
Rom. 8. 17. 
Heb.1.2. 
Jer.46.x8. 
Efay.S4.8. 


\  His  chofen,  Kis  hidden  »nes^  Wisjervels,    He  that  tOUchcth 
;  them,  touchcth  the  apple  of  his  eye.    They  are  his  Belo- 
\  ved,  as  the  fignct  upon  his  right  hand.     He  dwelleth 
with  them,  he  foUoweth  them  whither  foever  they  got; 
he  ftands  at  their  right  hand,  and  holds  them  up  by  it. 
;  Hec  covers  them  under  his  pavillion,  he  kcepes  their 
\  feete,he  counts  their  wardrings,he  numbreth  their  haires, 
:  he  obferves  their  ilghes,  is  moved  with  compaflion  upon 
.  their  complaints,   he  is  the  (hield  of  their  heipe,  the 
fword  of  their  excellency,  and  the  God  of  all  grace,  who 
will  fiilfill  all  their  neccffities.    He  is  their  nope,  their 
helpe,  their  health,  their  rocke,  their  refuge,  the  Father 
of  mercies  and  God  of  all  confolation.    He  will  teach 
them  in  the  way  that  they  fhould  choofc,  and  make  them 
perfedl  in  »ood  workes :  He  will eftab'ifli  them  in  every 
gocd  word  and  worke,he  will  walk  with  them,his  eye  is 
ever  upon  them  forgOod,&he  will  give  them  iheir  hearts 
defire.    They  have  the  Angels  of  God  to  mmifterunto 
I  them  for  their  fafcguard  and  protedion;  they  have  domi- 
nion over  the  creatures  of  the  earth,  and  the  free  ufe  of 
them,  both  for  neceflity  and  delight.   This  is  a  true  fay- 
ing ;  The  charter  anciently  given  by  that  ^reat  Lordof 
all  at  our  firft  creation,  touching  the  ufe  of  his  creatures, 
was  forfaited  into  the  hands  of  the  Doner  by  Adams  fall. 
But  it  \%  reftorcd  and  renewed  by  Chrift  to  them  who  arc 
honoured  with  the  Adoption.   The  heires  of  heaven  arc 
the  right  inheritors  of  the  earth.    The  Sonnes  of  God  by 
'Adoption,are  Brethren  and  Coheires  with  Chrift,whom 
the  Father  hath  appointed  heireof  all  things :  and  hence 
arifeth  unto  them  the  holy  ufe  of  the  creatures,  and  miri- 
ftery  of  the  Angells.  Arc  chaftifements  needfullor  behove- 
full  for  them  ?  He  will  cerreB  them  in  meafure^  for  a  mo- 
ment,for  good^  to  take  away  finne  :  but  his  loving  kindnejfe 
he  will  net  take  from  them  .nor  fnffer  hufaithfulnejfe  tofarle. 
Heb.ij.io.il  Are  they  loaded  with  reproaches  for  righteoufheffe 
^"^jF^-^^T^'.;  '    jfake  ?   The  Spirit  cf  glory,   and  of  Qod  fhall  refi  upon 
PHUpffj^z  ^hem»    In  a  word  whatfoever  may  happen,  ^11  things 
I  Pet.4. 1 4.     I  ,  [IjtiU 


the  fromijes  dfcverlaflittg  life. 


fkxll  reorhe  togsth:rf0r  the  bi-jtunta  them. 

And  fscing  God  bath  prepared  and  promifcdiijth  wt- 
ccUcnf-'pnviici^gfes  untQ  hia  chUdrin  ip  this  life;  'licncc  it 
isy  that  Faith  rcltcthupon  his  grace  to  receive  tn^m-Hlm 
whatfocver  may  b  :  good  and  profitable  tx)r  them-  0  'how 
grcAt  U  the gaodneffe  ,   icvhich  thou  hajl  iaf(i ttfi  ferjt h^m  fh4t 
feare  thee  :  which  thon  ha-}  jvroH^ht  far.  thfm  thi*i  triijhin 
th^e,  before  the  fonnesof.mejt  ? .  7\hyifjhslf  :ki4''.ih^*mk'Al(}a 
fecret(fthy  preface  from  the  pfi^btf.m^J.  jhlH /^^)-k?fil^ 
them  fecretljia  MfAvilion,  from  thejlrife  9ftongiti.''Hoxp 
excellent  is  thy  Iffvit)^  kjjtdasffe,.  O  Lord  x' fherf^fare- the 
children  of  m^^n  put  th:ir  truH  under  the  (ftAd'iW  of  tkf 
wiri(rt,  '7'ljoujialt  hcAhuniintly  fx^vsfiTd'ivith  thef^neif^ \ 
■tfthj'houjt:  andthenfhAU  make  them  drirj.^  oftherivev' 
if  thy  plea^ttrei.    The  Ltri  U  my  ,fl)fAphenrd^  hfi^AlL  not 
W4nt-     Heefhftll  lea ie  h.-sfiick^  like  4  fhe(fphcard\:'  h^e /hall 
gather  the  lambes  with  his  arme^xndedryihcm  in  hi^  ^ofome^ 
andjhall geotly  lead  thefe  that  are  wltJ]you>i^,     W4iar<j»n 
.they  want,  who  have  God  to  be  their  Father,  tapnca'dde 
,forthem>  and  prored  them  ;  to  blcdc'theQi  md  d\\n*W 
with  them;   to  fuccour  them,  and  (upplythein  with  all 
needful!  bleflin^s  fpiritnall  and  bodily,  in  fictcft  fearon.; 
«  whofeeare  isopcnto  thrirdcfires,  >  whofecoinpadi- 
ons  exceed  the  tendernefle  of  a  mother  to  he?riucking 
babe:  ^  who  hath  chofen  then  to  be  his  ownc, proper 
good,  which  he  loveth,  and  keepech  in  ftore  for  himfclfe 
and  for  fpeciall  ufe.    Thou  liVael  art  myf<rvant^  Jacob 
tvhom  T  have  chofen^    the  feed  of  Abraham  my  frienl^ 
ThoH  vehom  I  have  taken  iromtheendtcftheeartht^  arti 
called   thee  from  the  chtefe  men  thereof    an^  ft^y.  ftnto 
thee ;  Thof*  art  my  fervant^  I  have  chofen  thee',  and  not 
cafl  thee  away.     Feare  thonnot,  for  I amvfttht^jee  :    bee 
not  dtfmayed.for  I  am  thy  God:  I  will  ft^rengthen  thee,  yea 
IwiUhelpethee,  yea,  I  will  uphold  thee  with  thi  figh\  hatid 
of  my  rtghteoufjefje,      }Vhen  th;  poore.  and  rteedii  fheJig, 
water  J  and  there  is  none,  and  their  toHgaefailethfffrthirft, 
I  the  Lord  will  heare  them  ,    /  the  Lord  of  Ifrael   will 

S  2  not 


-r    'V      1 


25P 


Ro!n.8.zS. 
Alfs  of  FAtth 
that  arifc  from 
tbcbriviledgei 
oj  ikegoJly. 

^. 

Vcrfc  JO. 


Vcife  f . 


..  V 


7>8,9-       ,. 
2Cor.6.i6. 

•  Pro.  10.14, 
^Ifa.49.1  J.16 

•  Deuti  j.2. 
Efiy,4i»8.j» 


Vtik'i9. 


Vcrfc  17. 


^■4-- 


Vcrfe  i«. 


;-i-  V^ 


Pfal.«7.7,8. 
Verfe  9. 


prai.iS.i.2. 


PCil.40.ll. 


V 


what  it  is  to  U  ve^y  Fdth  concerning 


Hof.4.20,lX, 
t2. 


i  not  for  Jake  thcnt.  I  wiU  of  en  rivtrs  in  fhe  high  flacety 
nnd  fbanutines  in  the  midji  of  the  valUjes  :  I  will  make 
the  wildemtje.Afaoie  of  vatery  and  the  dry  Undfprings 

■A:tfT»Mtr, 

'       Secondly,  It  petitionctb  inftantly  for  fuccour.   For  it 

:  j  fecih  in  God  whatfoevcr  it  nccdeth  ordcfirctb,  and  will 
never  ccafe  to  Iceke  relictc.  The  more  confident  it  is  to 
obtaine,  the  more  importunate  it  will  be  in  filing.  Oilc 
:'putto  the  fire  cauleth  the  fiamcto  afcend :  ^and  the  promi- 
fcsofhelpe  and  fuccour,  received  by  faith,  put  life  and 
vigour  intothe  petitions  of  faith.  Heare,  O  Lord^  nvhen 
I  cry  with  my  voice:  have  mercy  alfo  tifon  mee,  and  an^ 
fwere  mee.  Hide  not  thy  face  farre  from  mee,  put  not  thy 
■fervant  away  in  anger  :  thou  haB  beene  my  he/pe,  leave  me 
not,  neither  forfake  mee,  0  God  of  mj  fahation.  Vnt« 
thee  will  I  cry,  O  Lord,  myrocke^  he  net  [ilent  to  me ,  lefi 
ifthoH  be  [dent  to  me,  I  become  like  them  that  goe  downe 
into  the  pit.  He  are  the  voice  afmj  fuppUcations ,  when  I  cry 
■unto  thee :  when  I  lift  up  my  hands  towards  thy  holy  Oracle^ 
fVith'hold  not  thou  thy  tender  mercies  from  tm^  O  Lord ' 
let  thy  loving  kindnejfe,  and  thy  truth  ctntinuaUy  prefsrvt 
mee. 

Thirdly,  It  rcceiveth  earthly  bleffings  as  gifts  of  the 
covenant  and  part  of  hiscbildes  portion.  God  vouchfa- 
■feth  outward  things  to  wicked  men  of  common  bountic; 
but  to  his  children  the  blefltngs  of  this  life  be  tokens  of 
bis  love  and  fpeciall  good- will,  and  fo  received  and  em- 
braced by  faith.  For  lubftance  the  gift  \&  one,  both  to  the 
Juft  and  un/uft  :  but  in  refpeft  ot  the  caufe,  poffeffion 
and  vScy  there  is  great  difference  :  which  is  difcer- 
ned  by  faith,  though  it  cannot  be  feene  with  the  eye. 
I  will  even  betroth  thee  ptnto  me  infaithfalnefe,  and  thou 
/halt  know  the  Lord,  ^nd  it  fh^ll  come  to  pajfe  in  that 
day,  I wiHhf are,  faith  the  Lord,  Iwillheare  the  Heavens, 
Mnd'they  Jkall  heare  the  Earth,  and  the  Sarth  fhalkhedre 
fheCorne,  And  th  Wine,  andtheOUe,  and  they  fhall  heare 
Irzrcel. 

^^^^       Fourthly, 


the  promjgs  efcverlafii^g  life. 


Fourthly,  Faith  in  thcfe  and  the  forcfaid  promifcs  doth 
greatly  enlarge  the  ht  art  towards  God,  andftirrcthupto 
a  ferious  and  carncft  ftudie  of  holincflc.  Ifa  Chriftian  be 
much  in  the  meditation  of  Gods  lingular  goodncflc  to- 
wards him  every  manner  of  way,  above  all  that  he  could 
pofTibly  aske  or  thinke,  it  will  even  conftrainc  him  to 
yeeld  up  himfelfe  wholy  unto  God  in  all  manner  o(2,o6\y 
conversation.  Examine  me,  O  Lor'\y  and  prove  me '^  trie 
mjreines  And  my  heart :  Tor  thy  lovinsi  kjndnejfe  ia  before  \ 
mine  eyes :  and  I  have  walked  in  thy  truth. 

Fiftly,  It  doth  inwardly  quiet  and  cheere  the  heart  in  ! 
the  midlt  of  mairifold  outward  dircouragcments,  trou- 
bles and  perfccutions  m  the  world.  Hope  of  glory  '\n  due 
time  to  be  revealed,  and  of  contiuuall  lupply  of  allgood 
things  from  Ciod  in  the  mcanc  f  pace  to  bee  freely  given, 
willftablifli  theh"  art  with  Itrong  confolation,  and  caufc 
an  outward  profelTion  of  Joy,  to  the  glory  of  God,  the 
encouragement  of  other  faithfuU  people,  and  the  amaze- 
ment of  the  wicked.  This  is  to  be  fecne  in  the  lives  and 
deaths  of  Gods  fairhfuU  fervants,  whotooke  joyfully  the 
fpoihng  of  their  goods,  knowing  in  thcmlclves  that  they 
had  m  Heaven  a  better,  and  an  induring  ltib»lance ;  who 
for  this  hope,    endured  the  croffe  and  defpifed  Jbame^  as 
k  teftified  of  our  Saviour  himfelfe.     "By  faith,  Mofcs 
when  he  vfos  come  to  yeares,  refufed  to  bee  called  thefonne 
•f  Pharaohs  daughter ;  choojing  rather  to  fuffer  affii^iou 
with  the  people  of  God    then  to  enjoy  the  pleafures  offmne 
for  a  fea'on  :  Efieeming  the  reproch  of  Chrifl-  greater  ri- 
ches  then  the  treafures  ^/Egypt  :for  he  halrefpe^  unto  the 
recompence  of  resvard. By  faith  others  were  tortttred^notaccep. 
ti»ff  ieliverance,that  they  might  obtaie  a  better  refurre&ion. 
The  way  or  meanesto  ftirre  up  faith  in  thefe  promi- 
fcs,  is ; 

yirff,  to  humble  our  fclves  unfainedly  in  refpcft  of  our 
raiferjible  and  accurfed  eftate  by  finnc,  and  former  care- 
lefltncffc  to  feekc  mercy,  enter  poflcflion,  and  get  aflured 
evidence  of  that  cvcrlafting  inheritance.  Woe  is  mee,how 

S  3  am 


261 


rfni,2tf.2,j. 


Hcb.10.34, 


Htb.xa.j. 


2  6, 

Heb.ii.jf. 

The  meanes  to 
fiine  up  faith 
in  thejefromi^ 
fes. 

I. 


'I 


af 


352 


Hcb.r.if. 


What  it  Is  to  live  hj  fM  concsrning 

am  I  fallen  from  that  ftatc  of  blcffedncflc  wherein  I  was 
firft  creatcd.into  a  moft  mifcrablc  and  accurfed  condition? 
I  have  grievoudy  finnc J,  and  God  is  highly  provoked, 
the  fcntcncc  of  the  Law  is  already  gone  forth,  I  am  (hue 
up  under  wrath,  and  if  I  have  my  defert,  I  can  cxpsft 
nothing  but  the  terrible  execution  of  feareflill  vengeance 
denounced.  Mortalicie  as  a  wormc  corrupteth  my  body : 
ignorance  and  luft  tyrrannizc  in  my  foulczmy  condition  is 
cxpofcdto  a  thoufaiKl  vanities  and  wearifome  courfes  ; 
and  through  feare  of  death  the  uplliot  of  evils,  lam  fub- 
/c(ft  to  bondage  all  my  lifif.    In  my  firft  ellate  I  was  made 
far  above  all  vifible  Creatures,  and  by  free  bounty  lifted 
up  to  be  the  favourite  of  the  mo'l  High  G  3d :  but  by  wil- 
full  difobedicnce,  I  am  fallen  into  Gods  difplcafure,  and 
lie  prifoncr  under  the  revenging  j'ufticeofthelaw.  Nor 
is  my  wretched  condition  worfe  then  my  carelefncfl«  to 
be  delivered  from  it.   The  bruit  beads  take  it  as  a  grie- 
vous thing  to  be  cnfnared  and  taken :  but  I  have  deligh- 
ted in  bondage.and  counted  it  a  liberty  to  live  a  Have  to  Sa- 
than,  and  to  foUow  things  and  courfes  pleafing  corrupt 
nature.  Thou  Lord  of  thine  infinite  grace  haft  proclaimed 
liberty,  publiflied  peace,   and  made  offer  of  a  better 
ftatc  and  condition  in  Chrift,  then  what  I  formerly  loft  in 
Adam :  But  I  preferred  fpirituall  thraldome  to  liberty, 
death  to  life,  and  chofe  ra-her  to  follow  the  temptations 
ofSathan,  and  to  fulfill  the  luftsoftheflcQi,  then  to  come 
unto  Chrift  that  I  might  be  faved.     The  men  of  this 
world  are  wife  in  their  generation,  to  accept  of  earthly 
commodities  when  they  be  offered,  and  not  to  put  by  the 
opportunity  :  but  when  the  Lord  hath  made  promife.  of 
cverlafting  life,  if  I  would  renounce  the  plcafures  of  fin, 
•  and  forcgoc  the  vanities  of  this  world,  I  have  followed " 
( vanity  and  ncglcfted  mercy,  I  have  defpifed  the  great  fal- 
i  vation,  and  walked  in  the  paths  of  death  and  condcmna- 
j  tion.    O  Lord,  it  is  thine  owne  worke  of  grace  in  me, 
I  that  ever  I  did  bethinke  my  felfe  of  the  danger  of  my 
icourfc,  andrcpcnttolay  hold  upon  the  promifes  of  life. 
'  Nor 


the  promjes  ofcuerlafting  life. 


Nor  hathmyfloth  and  negligence  to  fcekccvidcjicc^  get 
afTurance,  and  enter  pofleflion  of  that  glorious  inheri- 
tance, by  growing  up  in  peace,  joysholincffc  and  fantftifi- 
cation,  becne  lefle  odious,  then  former  carclefneflc.  Since 
I  have  becne  enlightncd,   and  tafted  of  the  heavenly 
gift,  I  have  fleightcd  the  promifcs  of  mercy,  which 
fliould  have  becne  my  continuall  meditation ;  1  have  ncg- 
le(5lcd  to  get  and  kecpc  the  holy  Spirit,hoIy  in  it  felfc^ma- 
king  them  holy  in  whom  as  temples  it  dwellcth,  the  fcale 
and  earncft  of  the  promifcd  inheritance.    Ah,  what  a 
dwarfe  am  I  in  holineflc  and  fandification  ?  for  thefe  ma- 
ny ycarcs  how  little  have  I  gained  >  My  fpirituall  fight  h 
exceeding  di mmc,  my  paffions  boiftcrous,  my  heart  un- 
quiet, my  thoughts  evill,  my  nature  corrupt.    I  am  dull 
to  good,  apt  to  fin,  feeble  and  of  no  power  to  withftand 
temptations,  fliaken  with  many  feares  touching  my  fal- 
vation,  foone  unfctlcd  and  removed  from  ftedfaftncflc  by 
any  contrary  oppofition,  fartheft  to  fceke  for  evidence 
and  adurancc  when  I  ftand  in  greatefl:  need.    All  this  is 
come  upon  me  through  mine  ownc  foolifhnefle  :  bccaufc 
I  have  not  acquainted  my   fclfc  with  the  promifcs  of 
grace,  nourifhcd  the  motions  of  the  Spirit,  carefully  im- 
proved the  gifts  received,  endeavoured  after  per fcAion, 
and  laboured  to  be  fcaled  more  and  more  with  the  pro- 
mifcd Spirit.  What  might  I  have  growen  unto  in  Chrift, 
if  I  had  inftantly  dcfired  the  Spirit  of  Grace  of  him  who 
givcth  it,  heeded  the  infpirations  and  fuggcftions  of  it, 
and  by  all  confcionablc  meanes  fought  increafc  of  grace, 
and  aflurance  of  falvation  ?  Long  ere  now  I  might  have 
attained  fulneflc  of  fpirituall  wifdomc  and  underftan- 
ding,  flrcngth  of  faith,powcr  of  grace,(weet  communion 
and  fcllowfhip  with  God,liberty  and  freedomcto  walke 
with  God,  comfortable  poffeffion  in  part,  and  good  af- 
furance  of  cternall  life  in  due  time  to  be  accompli flicd  : 
whereas  by  reafon  of  floth  and  negligence  the  powers  of 
grace  arc  fo  eafceblcd,  that  I  can  fcarcc  breathe,  figh, 
crawlc  in  the  way  to  Heaven,  my  heart  is  defolate,  I  am  a 

S  4  ftran- 


255 


T  - 


^-f  •  ^ 


2^4 


Ecclef4.^, 


3. 


what  it  is  to  livebj  F/uth  ancerning 


ftranger  tothe  comforts  ot  godlineife,  terrified  with  the 
I  remembrance  of  death,  ready  to  faint  at  the  apprehenfion 
of  trouble  and  danger,  and  coiKinually  difqaietcd  with 
feares  and  doubts  touching  miaeowue  Talvarion,  if  the 
I  world  with  the  things  thereof  have  not  ca;}  mt  into  the 
(leepeof  fccurity  forafeafon.  The  flothfiill  manisjuflly 
condemned,  who  had  rather  ftarve  in  Summer  for  lackc 
of  bread,  then  plough  in  winter  becau.e  o'^the  cold  :  Wc 
cenfure  him  that  had  rather  goe  lame  and  crooked  as  long 
as  he  liveth,  then  be  at  a  little  paine  to  move  an  aking 
joynt.  He  is  worthily  accounted  improvident,  who  neg- 
led:ing  to  gather  in  his  writings,  or  fue  out  fine  and  reco- 
vcrie,  will  hazard  theloffe  of  his  owne  inheritance.  My 
folly  hath  exceeded  herein,  who  to  live  in  peace  and  quiet 
withfinne,  have  impoverillied  my  foule,  impaired  my 
ftocke  of  grace,  wounded  my  confcience,  deprived  my 
felfe  of  many  rich  priviledges  of  grace;  which  I  might 
have  cn/oyc  J,  weakened  my  title  to  mine  everlafting  in- 
heritance, and  beene  contented  to  crcepe  feebly  towards 
the  heavenly  Canaan  ;  thinking  it  better  to  keepe  where 
I  was  with  quiet,  then  to  make  my  condition,  by  ftill 
dealing  with  my  felfc  too  too  reftlcfle.  The  (luggards 
fliamcTeffe  excufc  hath  fearfully  bewitched  me;  Better 
Pi  an  handfnU  wtth  eafey  then  both  hands  full  with  traveH,  and 
vexation  of  f pint.  The  more  excellent  the  inheritance  I 
hope  for  is,  the  more  deteftablcis  myfluggifhnefleand 
folly,  that  I  have  not  earneftly  fought  to  make  it  fjre  unto 
my  felfe,  and  cntred  poflvffion  thereof  fo  farre  as  in  this 
life  is  given  of  grace.  ..  :  .  .  , 
,  Secondly,  W  e  mud  inpitc  and  flirrc  up  our  fel  ves  to  r.c-» 
ccivcthc  promifes  of  cverlafliing  life,  by  confideration  of 
the  free  and  rich  grace  of  God,  his  truth  and  faithfulneflc; 
thefufficiencie  ofChrifts  meritsjand  greatneffe,  excellent 
cie,  and  worth  of  the  benefit  promifed.  Awake,  my 
foule,  why  flcepeft  thou;  arifc,  and  lay!hold 'Upon the 
proipifcs  of  life,  which  God  of  his  great  mercy  in  Jefus 
Chrift  doth  offer  unto  thee  in  the  GofpcU,  be  not  di{- 
...- _.^  niaycd 


thepomifes  ofe*verUJlw^life, 


maycd  by  rcafon  of  thine  unworthinc{Ic,for  the  promife  h 
of  grace,  freely  offered,  and  freely  given  to  them  that  be 
moft  unworthy-  in  th  ir  o  wnc  eyes.   Thou  art  unworthy 
of  theleaft  crumme  of  mercy,  but  ot  his  rich  mercy  God 
hath  maJe  promiie  of  higheft  advancement  unto  thee,  i^ 
thou  wilt  embrace  it.    InviiL  bt  a.  father  unto  yott,  arnijce 
jhull  bee  my  fonnes  and  daughters^  faith  the  Lord  Almhhty, 
He  that  overcommethfliaU  inherit  aU  things,  cy^ndl  vtillbe 
his  god^  and  hee  jhaU  be  my  fonne,     ^yind  itpjall  be  in  the 
place  whert  it  KVOi  [aid  unto  them,  jee  are  not  my  peopify 
that  there  they  JhaU  be  called  the  children  tfthe  living  God, 
Life  eternall  is  given  of  grace,  not  fold  for  workes;recei- 
ycd  by  faith,  not  purchafed  by  defert  :    and  the  more 
WortMefle  diou  art  in  thy  owne  lowly  conceit,  the  more 
/hall  the  grace  of  God  be  magnified  in  thine  exaltation. 
Chrifthath  purchaled  righteoufnefle  and  everlafting  life  ; 
believe  in  him,  and  live  for  ever.    The  Sonne  of  God  de- 
bafed  himfelfe  to  become  the  Sonae  of  Man,  and  to  be 
made  under  the  LaiVy  that  hee  might  redeeme  m  that  rvere 
under  the  Law^   that  ivee  might  receive  the  adoption  6f 
fons.  Oh  the  bcuntifulncfle  and  love  of  God  to  man,  by  fo 
great  a  price  to  purchafe  fo  high  a  dignity,  that  we  iliould 
be  called  the  Sonnes  of  God,  and  be  partakers  with 
Chrift  of  all  his  glory  in  his  Fathers  kingdome.     O  rny 
foulcjwhy  art  thou  (od\sM  and fluggiili  ?  Wherefore doeft 
thou  not  put  forth  thy  felfc  to  embrace  and  receive  fuch 
an  ineftimable  benefit.    If  the  worth  of  things  may  bee 
meafured  by  their  price,  well  then  may  the  Sonfliip  of 
true  Believers  be  valued  at  the  highefl  rate.  Who  can  fnf- 
ficicntly  admire  the  dignity  of  this  eftate  (to  be  the  Sonne 
of  God  )  which  could  not  be  procured  fave  onely  by  this 
infinite  price,  the  making  of  him  become  nothing,  by 
whom  God  in  the  beginning  made  every  thing  ?  It  is  c- 
fleemed  a  matter  of  great  honour  to  be  the  fervant  of  this 
Pripcc  in  fame  fpcciall  place  of  eminencic  in  the  Com- 
mon-wealth :  How  doe  men  feeke  and  (uc  for  fuch  Of- 
fices ?  how  do  they  rejoycc  when  their  defircs  arc  accom- 

P^i- 


255 


■i 


iCor.5,18. 
Apoc.ji.7. 

Rom. 9,26, 


Gal  4  4, J. 
Phil.i.7,8. 

Tit3.4. 


266 


what  it  is  to  live  bj  Faith  concerning 


pliibcd  ?  But  there  is  no  comparifon  betwixt  thefervant 
of  a  Prince,  and  the  Sonne  of  God ;  the  favour  of  a 
Prince,  and  the  Fathcr'y  love  of  God  ;  the  dignity  of  the 
Court,  and  the  Joyes  of  Heaven ;  a  temporall  ofhcf ,  and 
an  cternall  inheritance.  It  is  better  and  more  bonOurablc 
to  be  the  fervanr  of  God,  then  the  Commander  of  men ; 
to  be  an  hcirc  apparent  to  Heaven,  then  the  poffefTor  of 
the  whole  World.  There  is  a  great  opinion,  and  not  with- 
out juft  caufe,  of  the  eftate  ©rour  firft  Parents,  aAd/im 
and  Sve,  whilft  they  were  in  Paradife,  before  their  fall. 
But  their  eftate,  notwitbftanding  all  their  priviledges,  or- 
naments, and  favours,  exceeded  not  the  condition  of  fcr- 
vants.  Had  they  continued  in  obedience  to  their  Creator, 
they  (liould  have  beenc  exempted  from  all  mifery,  and 
confirmed  in  perfc(5!:  bleffedncffe :  But  they  could  never 
have  attained  this  dignity.    To  be  made  the  Sonnes  oF 
God  by  Adoption,  of  meerc,  rich,  and  undcfcrved  love  in 
Chrift.    And  i^  it  not  an  admirable  prerogative,  to  be 
brought  by  Chrift  into  a  more  excellent  ftate,  then  that 
which  Adam  in  his  innocency  and  glory  had  juft  caufe  to 
wonder  at.   As  the  gratioufneffc  of  him  who  preferreth, 
and  exccUencic  of  that  ftate,  whercunto  the  Believer  is 
I  exalted,  doc  commend  this ;  fo  alfo  doth  the  low  de- 
gree from  which  we  arc  raifed.  Of  thcfervants  offinne, 
to  be  made  the  Sonnes  of  God ;  of  the  vafl'als  of  Sathan,to 
be  taken  to  raignc  with  Chrift  in  glory  fer  evermore ;  of 
children  of  wrath,  dead  in  trefpaflcs,  to  be  begotten  a- 
gaine  to  the  hope  of  an  inheritance,  immortall,  undcfiled, 
that  fadctb  not;  what  anunfpeakablc  favour  is  this  ?  O 
my  (bule  arifc,  ftirre  up  thy  felfc  ftedfaftly  to  receive  the 
promifcof  life,  and  hold  it  faft  :  for  Gods  pro mifes  arc 
ccrtaine,  never  lefle,  but  rather  more  in  accomplifliment 
then  in  tender.  Enter  pofleflion,  and  get  the  inheritance 
fealed  unto  thee.  Would  not  a  poorc  Beggar,  if  he  {hould 
nndcrftand  of  fomc  great  and  goodly  inheritance  bequca- 
tfced  unto  him  in  a  farrc  countrcy,  much  rcjoycc  there- 
in, long  to  go  fccitj  and  take  poffcflion  of  it.    In  matters 

of 


thefrcmifes  ofeverlajlinglife. 


of  weight  men  love  great  carncft  and  good  afliirancc :  for 
great  advantage  they  will  endure  any  paines,  hazard  ma- 
ny  difficultics.Did  men  know  the  worth  and  glory  of  the 
kmgdome  of  Heaven,  freely  offered,  and  that  without  all 
expiration  of  time,  to  be  poflcded  here  in  part  of  them 
that  will  receive  ir,  uilly  hereafter,  when  their  daies  on 
earth  be  determi  led  •  w  uld  they  not  fceke  \i  with  all 
earncftncfle,  enquire  after  good  evidence,  get  found  af- 
(urjnc*,  and  labour  the  pofleflion  of  it  more  and  more  ? 
Men  feeke  earthly  things,  and  often  miffe  ok  their  defires: 
but  the  promifc  of  Heaven  is  fure  and  ftcdfad,  and  he 
thatrefteth  upon  the  Lord  fhallnotbe  confoundcj.    E- 
verlalUng  life  is  freely  rffcrc J,  but  men  arc  not  left  at  li- 
berty whether  they  will  receive  and  feeke  ity  or  no,    Hee 
that  (tetieveth  on  the  Sonne^  h^th  everUJling  life  :   and  hee 
that  betleveth  not   the  Sonne,  Jhall  not  fee  life,    but  the 
rvrath  of  God  abide th  on  him.   Do  not  they  pcriQi  wor- 
thily, whopreferre  the  pleafures  of  Hnne,  and  honours  of 
this  tranfitory  life,  before  life  everlafting,  promifed  of 
grace,  purchafcd  by  Chrift,  full  laden  with  all  fruits  of 
true  life,  ;oy,  peace,  and  all  choiccft  pleafures,  beyond 
comparifon,excecding  whatfoever  can  be  enjoyed  in  this 
world  both  in  worth  and  cndleffe  fetlcdneflc  ?  The  labour 
to  make  Heaven  fure,  which  is  full  of  pleafure  and  de- 
light, doth  cafcthe  heart  of  many  burdcnfome,diftrading, 
and  cutting  cares.  For  if  thou  be  the  childe  of  God,  thou 
haft  liberty  to  come  into  his  prefence,  and  to  make  thy 
requefts  knowne  unto  him  with  thankcfgiving ;  Nothing 
that  is  truly  evill  fhall  betide  thee.    The  plague  ftiall  not 
come  nigh  thy  Tabernacle  :  Theu  fhalt  tvalke  upon  the 
Lion  and  <t/4^e^  and  tread  them  under  feet  :  God  will 
provide  all  things  necefTary  for  foule  and  body,  and  fee 
that  no  good  thing  be  wantmg  unto  thee.    Seek£  fir/i'  the 
ktngdome  of  G^dt  and  hu  righteoufnefle,  and  all  thefe 
things  fbaH  be  added  unto  jtu.    What  then  fhould  with- 
draw or  hold  me  backe  from  believing  the  promifc .  and 
fceking  the  poffcflion  of  that  inheritance.  It  is  God  who 

hath 


2^7 


—   -r 


lohn.j.jtf. 


Ephcf.i.iS. 
&  3.11. 


Pral.jl.io,!:; 


P^aI.|4.jo. 
Ma:th.6  j  j. 


26S 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Fatth  concerning 


hath  freely  promifcd  ir,   who  can  and  will  pcrformc 
whatfoevcr  he  hath  fpoken ;  it  is  Chrift  who  hath  pur- 
chafed  it  by  thci  facrifice.  of  hioifclfJ.*  once  for  all,  why 
then  iliould  I  doubt  ?f  I  am  cdmmafided  toi)elicvcj  and 
believing  the  pofkflion  of  life  is  given  in  part,  which 
may  be  increafcd  by  a  daily  addition  to  the  graces  and 
comforts  of  the  Adopted  ;  why  fhould  I  be  negligent  to 
fecke  it  confirmed  and  fcaled  ?  Everlafting  life  is  the  only 
true  life,  full  of  joy,  peace  and  con.entation ;  a  durable 
treafure  which  can  never  fade,  a  crownc  that  never  wi- 
thereth  :  and  (hall  bafc  things  take  up  the  heart,  when 
God  calicthto  fcekcamofl:  gl.riousand  everlafting  in- 
heritance? Oh,  the  incRiniable  love  and  favour  of  God, 
who  makes  offer  of  an  Adoption  and  immortall  Inheri- 
tance to  the  moft  contemptible  wretches,  tbac  live  upon 
the  faceof  tbe  earth?  The  mm  that  toiles  hard  all  day 
long  for  a  fmall  piece  ot  filver,  or  lies  at  the  rich  mans 
gate  waiting  for  an  Almes,  the  icraps  that  come  trom  his 
Table  :   he  is  invited  to  come  unto  Ghriftv  that  he  might 
obtaine  a  kingdome,  an  eternali  kingdomt  that:  hath  none 
end,  an  inheritance  abundantly  gloaous,  furpafling  the 
glory  and  worth  of  all  earthly  trcafures  and  inheritances  I 
laid  together,  much  more  then  all  tarthly  trcafures  do  ex- 
ceed the  worth  of  one  pin.What  anheart-brcake  is  it  to  a  i 
man,  when  he  finds  that  by  fome  default  he  hath  forfeited 
fome  earthly  matters,  which  he  might  have  held,  had  he  ; 
bin  warie  ?  but  what  griefe  and  confufion  will  this  caufe, 
when  he  fhall  fee  that  through  folly,  floth,  carcleflenefle, 
matchlJTe  cruelty,  and  unthankfulnefle,  he  hath  loft  an 
everlafting  inheritance  of  glory ,  which  he  might  have  ob- 
tained ?  Mecre  poflibility  of  compaffing  fonric  great  and 
extraordinary  g  ,od  is  of  more  vvaigbt  in  fwayiigmens 
adions  and  inciting  endevours,  then  certainty  ofaccom- 
pliifhing  pettie  '.'elires.  But  certainty  and  commodity  do 
here  concurrc  in  one  ;  There  is  no  goo'^  to  the  pofTeffion 
of  eternali  life;  no  fuco  fle  certaine  but  this,  that  he  who 
unfaincdly  belicveth  in  Chrift,  lliall  inherit  the  crowne  of 


thefremifes  $fe*verlafiing  life 


glory.  It  is  good  for  mc  to  draw  nigh  unto  Ged,  and  pnt 
my  truft  in  his  mercy  j  to  lay  faft  hold  upon  the  promifcs 
of  life  and  protcftion,to  get  the  fpirit  of  Adoption  where- 
by wc  cry  Abba  Father,  and  fly  unto  his  grace  in  Chrift 
to  get  my  title  made  fure  and  ftrcngthencd  unto  my  con- 
fcicncc,  and  while  time  fcrvctb,  earned ly  to  fcekc  the 
kingdomiofGod. 

Thirdly,  Wee  rouft  pray  carneRly  that  God  would 
incrcafc  our  faith,  feale  us  by  his  Spirit,  lead  us  in  the 
way  of  peace,  caufc  us  to  grow  up  in  hohnefle  j  make  us 
wife  to  prize  and  value,  to  taft  and  relifh  the  joyes  of 
Heaven ;  and  aflurc  our  confcienccs  of  right  and  title 
to  thatcverlafting  inheritance.  For  it  is  God  that  fealcth 
as,  and  makes  us  to  rcade  the  feah'ng  ;  that  promifcth 
Heaven,  and  afFe<5kth  the  heart  with  thcgoodncflcand 
Worth  of  the  thing  promifcd  ;  that  by  the  pledges  of  his 
favour  and  the  carncfl:  of  his  Spirit  doth  fufticiently  tefti- 
iSe  our  Adoption,  and  caufc  us  certainely  to  apprehend 
what  be  doth  tcftific  and  aflure.    As  the  beginning,  fo 
the  progrcflc,  comfort  a-nd  afllirance  of  hfe  is  from  him, 
and  inftantly  is  to  be  begged  of  him.    Faith  rcceiveth  the 
promife  of  life,  and  giues  aflurance  of  what  is  received, 
as  k  prayeth.  Who  am  I  O  Lord,  tbat  thou  fhouldcft 
make  fuch  ample  and  free  promifes  unto  thy  poorc  fer- 
vant  concerning  his  evcrlafting  happineffe  ?  Of  thy  free 
mercy,   and  according  to  thine  ownc  heart,   haft  thou 
fpoken  all  thefc  great  things,  to  make  thy  fervant  know 
j  them.  And  now,  O  Lord  God,  cftablifli  I  befecchthec 
I  the  word  that  thou  haft  fpoken  concerning  thy  fervant; 
'  gratioufly  accept  me  for  thy  childe ;  by  the  carncft  of 
thy  Spirit  and  pledges  of  thy  favour  fcale  unto  me  the 
promifed  inheritance,  and  make  me  affurcdly  to  know 
what  great  things  thou  haft  done,  and  what  thofe  hopes 
be  which  are  referved  for  me  in  Heaven.    My  fight  is 
dimme,  not  proportioned  and  fitted  to  fo  high  an  objc(*t, 
my  affetflions  carnall  that  I  cannot  fct  my  felfeto  purpofc 
about  this  contemplation,  the  Dcvill  labours  nothing 

more 


76^ 


4- 


i-jo 


iThciT 
Col  1.5. 


1.14 


Wfut  it  is  to  livs  bj  Faith  concerning 


pral.16.5,6 


^ 


more  then  to  kecpc  mz  hood- winked  this  way.  O  Lord, 
Ibcfecdi  thee  iiiable  m-  to  know  this  good  and  bleffcd  i 
hjpc,  the  mitcer  of  mine  inheritance  abundantly  glo-  j 
rioas,  that  my  heart  may  beftill  in  Heaven  ;  and  by  thy 
Spirit  Uadme  into  ail  trudi  and  holiiefl'e,   that  in  due  : 
time  I  ^may  pofieffc  the  Kingdome  of  glory  whereunto  I 
am  called.  OF  thy  free  grace  thou  ha[l  called  mc  by  the 
I  Gorpell  to  this  -blcfled  hope,['  which  is  laid  up  for  mc 
i  {\\  Heaven  .:  therefore  is  thy  fcrvant  bold  to  inrreatc  : 
I  the  fence  oi  thy  love,   the  knowledge  of  this  Hope,  j 
the  increafe  of  grace,  and  afllirancc  oi  thy  mercy  for  ' 
evermore.  j 
Fourthly,  We  mufl  quicken  our  fclvcs  to  rc/oycc'in  ■ 
God,  vvaicc  patiently,  andwalke  chcarfuily  before  hinj^  ! 
Ohj  the  incomprehenfible  love  and  favour  of  the  Lord. 
Was  it  ever  fouid  that  any  man  of  rankcor  place  did 
adopt  the  blindc,   lame,  deafc,   dumbe,    orotfeerwifc 
deformed,  to  be  heire,  to  fucceedehim  in  his  inheritance? 
Myfoule,  rcjoyce  thou  in  the  Lord,  and  bleflc  his  holy 
Name,  for  he  hjith  lookedupon  mybafceftate,  andvi- 
I  fited  me  with  mercy  from  orj  high :  of  a  ftranger  and 
forrainer,  I  am  made  a  frcedenifon  of  the  new  lerufalcM*^ 
of  the  bondflave  of  Sathan,  the  friend  of  Chrift ;  of  the 
childe  of  wrath  and  damnation,  the  fonnc  of  God  and 
heire  of  falvation.   My  Name  is  rcgiftred  in  Heaven,  an 
cternall  waight  of  glory  is  refcrvcd ,  which  the  mod 
righteous  God  hath  promifcd,  and  in  fitteft  feafon  will 
give  unto  mc.    Why  (hould  I  doate  on  earthly  braveries, 
who  have  an  cternall  life  that  hath  moft  excellent  glory, 
honour,  riches  an  i  happineffe,  above  all  the  heart  can 
comprehcndjjoyned  with  it,  prepared  and  given  through 
faith  in  Chrift.    It  were  notable  bafencflc,  ifan  heire  of 
fumptuous  and  ftately  pallaces  fliould  covet  the  poore 
cottages  of  beggars  that  ftand  by  the  high  way  fide.    The 
Lordis  the  portion  of  mine  inheritance  y  and  of  my  cup :  thou 
maintainefl  my  lot.   The  lines  are  fallen  unto  me  in  pleafant 
places  y  yea  I h^ve' a goedlj  heritage.    My  ftudic  and  carc, 
fliouldj 


thefremifes  offtrfcvcrAnctj^c. 


271 


ftiould  be  to  know  my  heavenly  hopes  better  and  more 
fully , that  1  might  weane  my  fclf  the  more  willingly  from 
all  earthly  vanities.  Heaven  is  my  home,  my  hope,  mine 
inheritance  :  and  where  fliould  my  heart  be,  but  where 
my  treafure  is ;  where  my  thoughts,  but  where  my  hope 
is  ?  In  this  life  I  receive  onely  the  firft  fruits  of  the  Spirit, 
the  carneft  of  the  inheritance  :  but  I  will  waite  patiently 
for  the  full  poflefTion  thereof,  andwalke  chearefullyin 
the  way  that  leadeth  thereunto.  In  earthly  things  men  are 
contented  to  waite  for  a  good  leafc  in  rcverfion,  and  to 
lay  out  their  money  for  that  which  fhall  not  come  to  their 
hands  till  fomc  lives  be  expired  :  and  fhould  not  I  waite 
for  the  accomplifhinent  of  glory,  there  being  but  one  life 
betwixt  it  and  me.  and  that  is  mine  owne  ? 


C  HAP.  V. 

VphAt  it  is  to  live  by  faith  touching  the  frcmifes 
cfferfeverance,  and  how  tojiirre 
up  ourfelves  there- 
unto, 

God  of  his  infinite  mercy  hath  made  further  promifes, 
(the  neccflityiofhis  fervants  fo  requiring,)  that  his 
■  mercy  ihall  never  depart  from  them  jthat  he  will  confir  me 
&  ftrcngthcn  them  to  the  end,  notwithftanding  their  own 
Wf  akneflc.and  the  mslicc  of  their  fpirituall  enemies,  and 
that  nothing  {hall  feperate  them  from  the  love  of  God 
which  is  in  Chrift  Jefus.  This  is  implied  in  the  firft  pro- 
mifc  which  God  viXSidcJt  fhak htiife  thy  head ^  thou floalt 
bruife  his  heele :  where  Sathan  is  ftinted  to  the  hccle  of  the 
trueChriftian  feed,  In  many  paffages  of  Scripture  the 
fame  is  moft  clearely  and  manifcftly  cxpreffed.  He  /ba/I 
bee  like  M  tree  planted  by  the  rivers  cfrvater,  that  bringcth 
forth  his  fruit  in  hisfeajon^  hia  ieafe  alfojhall  not  jvither,  and 

what' 


G«d  hath  made 
many  fremijCs 
tfferfevcrance. 


Gcn.5.if. 


272 


Pfa.48.i4. 
Plal.7j  14., 
Vcrfe  i<s. 

Pfal.105.17. 
PfaLii*.?.^. 

Pfil.uj.1.2. 

Efay.4»,j, 
Efay.4^,4. 
Efay.$4.io. 


Efay.j9.ii. 

Rom,9.*. 
Gal  4.18. 


ler.jx.j. 


Efay.  54.8.5 


IVhaf  it  is  t9  live  by  Fdth  tonchmg 

whutfoever  f^ee  doth  fh/tti  prajper,    The/tepf  of  ai^todmMn 
Are  ordered  by  the  Ltrd ^   ani  hee  dcU^bteth  in  )j<s  waj. 
Though  hse  fa^l  hte  fhi'l  n^t  hee  mterly  ca/^  dmvne  :   for 
the  L^rd  uphoUeth  him  foith  hU  h^ni.    For  thu  Gofdis  our 
God  for  ever  Ani  ever,  bee  wiU  be  oitr  gniie  even  unto  death. 
Thou  Jh/ilt  gfilde  m?  with  thy  couttfeUy  and  afterward  receive 
m:  to  glory.    LMy  fls(h  and  heart  fatleth  :  bm  God  is  the 
^rength  of  my  heart  :a»d  my  portion  for  ever.   The  mfrcie  of 
the  Lord  is  from  everUfting  toeverUfiing  upon  thentthat 
feare  him.  A  good  man  P)?ws(h  favour  andlenieth  :  hee  wiH 
guide  bii  affaires  with  diferetion  :    Surely  hee  (hall  not  dee 
moved  for  ever :  the  righteous  PjaH  be  in  everUfting  remem- 
brance. They  that  trufi  in  the  Lord^JhaU  be  as  mourtt  Zi  jn, 
which  cannot  bee  removed^  but  abiciethfor  ever,    A  bruifed 
reedefjaB.  he  not  breaks ^  andthefmoakingflaxejTjallhe  n$t 
quench.  tAnd  even  to  your  old  age  lam  hee,  and  even  to  the 
hoare  h aires  will  I  carrie  you  ;  I  have  made,  and  I  wi^ 
beare^even  I  wiU  carrie  ^ani  will  deliver  you.  For  themoun- 
tainesfhall  depart,  and  the  hils  bee  removed,  but  my  kind^ 
neffe  (hall  not  depart  from  thee,  neither  fhall  the  covenant 
*/  ^J  P'^^^  bee  removed,  faith  the  Lord  that  hath  m^rcy 
on  thee*    ^sfor  m'-e^  this  is  my  covenant  with  them^  faith 
the  Lord.   CMy  Spirit  that  is  upon  thee,    and  my  words 
which  I  have  put  in  thy  mouthy  fhall  not  depart  out  of  thy 
mouthy  nor  out  of  the  mmth  of  thy  feede  ;    that  is,  fuch 
as  bee  effectually  called  according  to  the  purpofe  of 
God. 

Hereunto'  may  be  ailded  thofe  paflagcs  which  tcftifie, 
that  the  love  which  God  bcareth  to  his  people  is  an  cver- 
laftinglovc,  and  the  covenant,  which  he  hath  made  with 
them  effcdlually,  and  fhall  be  kept  aflurcdly,  is  an  ever- 
lafting  covenant.  The  Lord  hath  appeared  of  old  unto  mee^ 
fayingyyeaylhave  loved  thee  with  aneverlafiing  love:  there- 
fore with  loving  kjndneffe  have  Idrarvne  thee.  In  a  little 
wrath  I  hid  my  face  from  thee  for  a  moment :  but  withe- 
verlafling  kindneffe  will  J  have  mercy  on  thee,  faith  the 
Lord  thy  Redeemer.    For  this  is  as  the  waters  ^^fNoah  un» 

to 


thefrmfifis  ofprfovermtt^^z. 


273 


Icr.51. 31,32, 

Hcb.8.8,9.& 
1 0.1 6. 1  7, 


4^ 


Hcb.ij.ao' 


Hcb.8.to. 


tn  mtifor  M  IhAvefivorHe^ihat  the  vcaters  ef^^oahficu/dffo 
7H6reg<bt  fiz^r  the  tMrth  f  f&'bd^i  JfworTfi^  t^ut  Ite>4tiMn6i 
ie  ■^rtt^'^ithfthivyvtf^eifkkf  thei.  'Bahttld.'^he  ^es4me\ 

hcufe  ef  Ifrad  andyvith  the  houfe  ofJn6^t--J^*t/iC'Cdt(^iM£ 
t^rhe' Covenant  thmt  ImAde  )vith  their  Fktbers  in  the  day 
thAf  tfiiki  thefh  ^y  the  handy  'tnhrin^  fhim  eUt  efthe  tand 
if  JEgy'ptf  "^hich  my  'eotvett/mf  they  brakf^  HhhtUgh  Irpos 
2W  hmband  unto  therh.    But  thiiffHU  bee  the  covcn^ht  tff^^ 
I  will  m*ke  with  the  ko»fe  o/lfracl ;  Jiftef  thoje  dayes^faifh 
the  Lordy   I  wifl  flit  mj/  /atp  in  their  tnyvMrd  parts,  atid\ 
Sfrite  it  m  their  hearts,    k/€nd  they  fljdU  hee  my  pedflie  |  Jc-Ji.jS.jp, 
atfdiy^ill  bee  their  ^od,"   t^nd  IrciU give  them  ene  heart ^ 
I  and  one  way  J   that  they  MAy  ft  are  mee  fffr  evifr,  for  the 
good  ef  them,   and  of  their  childHn  after  them,    ^isd  I 
yvillmakt  an  everUfimgcivenant  vriththem,  that  I  jpiU 
not  turne  away  from  them  to  do  theih  good :  bt*t  Infill pnt 
thy  feare- in  their  heart ty  that   they  fhaH  ^tfot  4e fart' from 
mee,  '■  '  . 

In  which  covenant  or  Tcftanicnt  Gocf  fi'e?!)^  proniiTeth 
to  give  what  he  rcquircth  of  his  people,  and  to  cffcft  in 
them  what  he  calleth  for  at  their  hands.  If  the  benefits  gi- 
ven be  compared  amongfl:  themfclves,  orit  is^  it  were  a 
condition  to  another  :  bat  they  be  all  eftefl'^  ih  rel])eft  of 
the  grace  and  free  favour  otGod,"  ccrraihd5^coriftbrring 
them  upon  whom  he  will.    Righteoafiitffl"c  and  life  arc 
promiled  upon  condition  of  faith  :  but  the  condition  of 
the  covenant  is  promifcd  in  the  covenant  it  felfe.   A  new 
heart  alfo  mUlgi'vejoHyaniaMexoffirUyHllIftlt'^ithin 
\)9ff,  andlvciH  tal^'a^a)  the  ftonie  heart  eat  effoMr  fiefh, 
And  I  will  put  my  Spirit  within  yeH,andcattfey(^u  to  walke  in 
myflnttttes   an^ 'yeeJhaHkeepe  my  judgement  s,  atiddoihem, 
And  I  vein  betroth  thee  unto  mee  for  ever,  yea  I  wiU  betroth 
thee  umo  mee  in  rightioufnep,  dnd  injud^httietit)  'a^dik  h- 
'^hg  ^ndftefe.  dnd ifi Mercies.  IreiU't-Oenhrifo'ihtMyn'n^ 
f*We  infakbfHlnele,0nd thoUfhA/t  fyby^iBuLoied-ThttX' 
ternall  betrothing  by  outward  covdnintj;  fo  as  6od  bc- 
••*  T  trothcs 


•>.• : 


-Qt.ii.enc 


»7-  -  . 


HofiXtip^so. 


Rom.9  i4,^T. 
I  Pct.».8,9,io 


Mxt.7,i^,tf. 


Match.  1^.18. 


lohn,  10.17, 
Eic.34.iy,i<>. 


Rom.8.jf,57. 


Rom.x1.t9. 


a  74,     !  what  it  is  to  live  hj  Fmh  torching 

trothes  himfclPe  to  all  profclliig  the  true  faith,  may  be 
br.okea,f(>rthoughOod  oiFit  thco^  mercy  if  they  will  be- 
lieve, .  vet  hc'.givos  Jiot  faith  to  thsoi ;  but  ttie  internaU  by 
cffiftuall  difpofrion,  of  which  the  Prophet  (psakcth  in 
,  this  place,  is  indiffo  ublc. 

j       IVhoCoever  heareth  thefe  fiyingi  ofrn'tte^  4nd  httf  them 

I  retU  lirk^en  him  uiffi  a  wife  mtn^  Pfhlck  hailt  his  htufe  mp»H 

4  roTke  :  «>/«,^  the  ralne  defeettde  ^,  ^nAihe  jieuds  came t  And 

j  the  vvittds  blew,  and  hat  ffpo>t  that  houfe,  avdlcfe/I  tt»t^f«r 

I  it  wot  foHttded  upon  4  rockf.   But  all  the  faichfull  are  built 

upon  the  rocke ;  not  upon  the  rocke  now,  and  anon  upon 

the  fatidj  but  once  built  upon  the  rocke,  they  remainc 

uiimoveable.  Then  art  Perer,  and  Hpon  this  rocksIyviH 

bmld  my  Church,  and  the  gates  of  HeU  Jhall  not  prevaile 

againflit :  aflailc  it  they  may,  prevaile  againft  it  they  fhall 

not. 

U'^y  Jfteepe  heare  my  veice,  and  Il^ytow  them t  and  they 
follow  mst  And  I  give  unto  them  eternall  ///<r,  and  they  JhaH 
never  perifl)^  neither  Jh  Ml  any  man  plucke  them  «ut  of  my 
handTrO^y  Father  which  ^ave  them  me,  ^  greater  then 
aS :  and  no  man  is  able  to  plucky  them  out  of  my  Fathers 
hand,     Vpho  JhaU  federate  tis  from  the  love  of  Chrift  f 
Shall  trihtdAtion,  ordijirejfe,  or perfecutioHi  er famine ,  or 
nakedneffey  erperiH,  off  word  .f-  Nay,i»a^thefe  things  wee 
arcmpre  then^ con(juero«rs  throngh  him  that  loved t^^    Tht 
gifts  and  sailing  of  God  are  -withont  repentance^  'Ble^esL  bee 
the  God  and  Father  of  our  Lord  Jeftts  Qhri^  who  accor- 
ding  to  his  abundant  mercy ,  hath  begotten  tu  againe  unto 
a  lively  nope,  by  the-  refurreElion^  ifJefw  Phrift  jronx  thf 
iVct.t.^)\if.   flf^^^    j-jj  ^ft  inheritance  incorruptible,  and unde fled,  and 
that  fadeth  not  awaj^  referved  in  Heaven  for  you,  who 
are  kept  by  the  power  of  God  through  faith  unto  fahation, 
I  Ichn-^.x.     (  ready  to  be  revealed  in  the  lafi  time.    Beloved,  now  wee  are 
the  fonn:s  of  Goi^  and  i^  doth  f{H  yet  appeare  what  -wee 
&allke'  ''  but  wee;-kn9w^  that  when  heefbaU  Appeare,  wee 
[uic  v.14,1  y.  fia/l  i,er  like  him^  :for  wee  fhall  fee  him  as  be  is,  2^w  unto 
him  that' is  able  to  k*epe  you  fomfal/im^j^  and  to  pre- 


theffotnifcs  itfferfrbefJii^^. 


fentjotffAuhle^e  he  fort  the  frtfcttce  cf  hi^  glcrie  with  ex* 
€eedingjoy  :  To  the  melj  vctje  God  cur  SAxithr^  heeglorie 
-Md  m»]efty^^ ^fmittinn  'md'iftttii^  n§v>  \  sind  tvtty  ^iuen. 
;Dotb  God  1n  tbcfe  places  pniteaiftr to  pmtfiStm  againft 
forraiile  enemies,  not  agaihftdoiiicftid<c:  pcrfidiouim  fie  ? 
The  texts  cjoc  rcfpcd:  no  condition,  as  the  caiif  c  of  fulfil- 
ling tbcfe  promifes,  but  plainly  5 ftirmc,  that  God  him- 
iclfedoth  promifc  and  will  give  the  condition  whJch  he  j 
require*.  For  to  what  end  doth  be  write  the  Lawin  th^  I 
heart,  uphold  with  his  hand,  and  give  a^ good ilffuc  to  the 
temptation;  but  that  the  will,  prone  towickedncflc, 
(bould  not  jrccld,  and  altogether  ftartbachc  fiDm  grace 

(received?-  v"     :-'  v.v,_  :  •':(„  ..  ,  ;- 

Lc  fVhvfaevtr U boritc^fi^Qi, diah sftf fontvnr^xna ?f*r hU 
feedrtmfl.heth  in  htm, and  he  cannot  JinneJ>ecanfs.he  is  ^?^«^ 
.of  God.   And  if  the  feed  abide  in  the  faithfull  as  an  indele- 
ble  charader  and  pledge  of  their  inheritance,  that  they 
cannot  finnc  in  the  Apoftles  fence,  then  are  they  fenced 
againft  the  trtfachcry  of  their 'bwnc  hearts  remiining  in 
xhzm.Pf'hafoever  drinketh  oftki  water  that  I. /ha/I give  him, 
fhall  never  thirit :  httt  the  veater  that  I  give  himj^allhee  in 
him  A  voell  of  water  fpringing  up  into  everUfling  life  where 
thirft  is  oppofed  to  a  totaU  want  of  grace,   rot  to  the 
■^amcl^  ^fire  of  Jncrcafc  in  grace.    The  thirft  of  totaU 
indigencie  is  taken  away  by  the  participation  of  grace- 
the  thirft  of  complacencie,  or  more  ample  fruition  of 
grace,  is  incrcafcd. 

The  Holy  Spirit,  who  is  fent  into  the  hearts  ofthe 
Sonnes  of  God,  is  not  there  as  a  gneft  to  tarrie  for  a 
night  or  two ;  but  as  an  inhabitant  to  dwell  and  remaine 
for  ever  :  yea,  as  an  earncft  o\  their  inheritance,  untill  the 
redemption  ofthe  purchafed  po{reflion./M'»7//>r47  the  Ta- 
thery  andheejhallgiveyou  another  Comforter,  that  he  may 
Abide  with  you  for  ever,  7{jw  hee  which  Jhablijheth  us 
with  you  in  Chrifi,  and  hath  annointedta^  is  God,  who 
hath  aljofeaiedtts,  and  given  the  earnefh  ofthe  Spirit  in  our 
hearts:  which  is  the  earnejt  ef  our  inheritance,  nntillthe 

T  2  redemvtion 


2.75 


r^(>2 


I  John. J. 9, 
I  lohn.f.iS. 


I  Pet.  X,  2, J. 


Rom.  8, 1 1. 

I  Pct.4.14. 
I  Iolin.2.17. 

lolin.  14.15, 

Epbcf.i.i^. 
&4-30. 


WkA  ^pfMif^iff,fdfph*tmcSf»^ 


I  Pet. I. » J.; 


John  f. 14. 
Jjhn.i7.j. 
Ioiin6,47. 


Luk.tz.jt. 
Ioh.i7.1y. 


VerTe  io. 


,  ;'.l^£3«de  Wfacwof  die^ifftftril  arcbogotfcn  isiocofc- 
I  rlipciblc,  the  life,;  whalfe  they  live  by  faichf  ia  Chrift,  U  an 
Cv;rlafting  liFc.    VerHy,  verily  I  fay  M»t9  you,.  Hfe  thMt 
bf^reth  mytvord^  artd  iilieveth  an  him  th^t  fent  mte,  hath  I 
everlaflin^life,  A^AfhaU  not  €ome  into  condemnati»n^  bnt  ia  ^ 
\  pit^!djir»ntite4fk  u»t»life.<  Andthisisthe  recordythat  God. 
'  h<ith  guoeh  t«  uieUm4tl  liff^  and  this  iifg.is  in  hii  Son^, 
iloh.j.Haii';  ^ee  that  h/Uht^e  S9nne  hath Ufe,  mdhee  thai  hath  not  t^ 
^enne  bath  not  Ufr-.'^ov/  the  Scrip-^urcs  faying, He  that  be- 
licveth  hath  cvcrlafting  life,  and  (hall  not  come  into  con- 
demnation, doth  import  that  faith  and  the  fruits  thrrcof 
be  (uch  from-which  the  godly  through  the  power  of  God 
never  fall.  \         .  ^^ 

And  for  further  confirmation,  the  Scripture  teftifieth, 
that  Chritt  hath  prayed  for  his  people  that  their  faith 
ffiould  not  faile,  that  they  fkould  bee  kept  from  the  . 
evill.    This  caitnot  be  reftraincdto  the  Apoftles,  bntit 
is  the  comnaori  priviledge  ofalirfie  fakhfall ;  2i(jitker\ 
fray  I  for  thfff  alone  ybtu  for  all  them  alfo  yfhichjhaB  belitve 
0H  mee  through  thetrword.  And  the  interceffion  of  Chrift  ; 
even  for  this  particular  bleifing  of  the  not  failing  of' 
faith,  never  ccaLfetth^  ii.evfC:c0cditfi»U,;andip.e£ddi]iij^*' 

And  that  nothing  might  be  wanting  to  full  confola- 
tion  in  this  point,  we  are  allured  from  God,  that  he  will 
pcrfcdl  the  workc  of  grace  which  be  hath  began,  who 
JhaU  alfo  confirme you  unto  the  end,  thaty^e  mi$j  bee  blames 
lefe  in  the  day  of  the  Lordlefm  Chrift.  "Being  confidtnt  of 
tbii  very  things  that  bee  which  hath  begHn  a  good  W/orke  in 
jfoUf  wittperforme  it  untill  the  day  oflefus  Chrift.  FaithfftX 
'  is  bee  that  calleth  you,  who  alfo  wik  doe  tty  that  »,  (  as  j 
I  Theffi  5.»4.   gocth  immediately  before  )  preferve your  yvboiefptrit^  and^ 
Jfohle  and  body  b/ameie(p  unto  the  comming  ofsur  Lordleftu  1 
Chrift,    The  Lord  is  faithfully  who  jiaUefablifh  yo»,  audi 
keepeyou  from  tviU,  I 

Now! 


I  Cor.  1.8. 

Phil.  1.5. 


i^Kcff 


I'l^ 


thefr$mfes  of-perfeverAnce,Bcc, 


Now  feeing  God  hath  bin  plcafcd,  by  fo  many  promi- 
(cs  to  aflurc  the  faithfull  of  their  furc  and  ftedfaft  cftatc,  it 
is  neccffary  fcrioufly  to  learnc  and  thinkc  upon  them,  that 
tbey  might  be  fetled  in  believing  their  perfeveraiice.  Had 
it  not  becne  a  point  of  great  weight  and  nccclTitie,  we 
cannot  thinkc  the  Lord  would  have  mentioned  it  fo  of- 
ten, and  confirmed  it  fo  many  waies :  which  will  foone 
appearc  to  any  man  that  ftiall  confider  his  owne  frailrie, 
ind  the  ftrength  and  malice  of  his  fpirituall  enemies;how 
potent  and  vigilant  they  be  to  aflaile,  how  weake  and 
feeble  he  is  to  withlhnd  and  make  refiftance.    Nor  h  our 
weakncffc  greater  then  our  back  wardnefle  to  believe  the 
promifcs  of  perfevsfance,  when  we  ftand  in  moft  need  of 
them.  When  corruptions  lHrre,and  tentations  be  hot  and 
ficrie,  and  we  finde  our  felves  ready  to  faint,  then  are  we 
tofecke  of  a  promilc  that  might  uphold  againfl:  the  fcare 
offallingaway  ;  or  ifthepromifebeat  hand,  wecannot 
lay  hold  upon  it,  fomemift  or  other  comes  betweeneit 
andthe  eyeof  ourunderftanding.  Many  good  Chriftians 
are  kept  under  with  this  temptation,  They  are  afraid  they 
/hall  never  hold  out,  if  perfecution  fhould  come,  they 
ftand  '\r\  doubt  left  they  ftiould  fall  away  as  many  have 
done,who  made  greater  ftiewes,  and  fecmed  to  have  gone 
further  then  ever  they  did.   And  whileft  they  diftruftfully 
qucftion  their  perfeverance,all  prefent  favours  fecme  leflc 
then  otherwife  they  would,iill  other  promifcs  be  held  the 
more  weakly ,and  Satan  takes  advantage  to  fill  their  hearts 
with  manifold  difcomforts.  God  (I  denienot)  doth  order 
thefc  temptations  to  the  beft,  and  will  doe  bis  children 
good  by  them  :  for  hereby  they  are  driven  to  diftruft 
themfclves  and  run  unto  God,  and  relic  upon  him  in  all 
their  nece(Tities :  neverthelefte  the  many  perplexities, 
whf  rein  they  arc  entangled  for  want  of  faith  in  the  pro- 
mifcs of  perfcvcrance,  doth  fuftici^ntly. convince,  how 
neceflaryit  is  we  ftiould  labour  to  have  our  hearts  efta- 
blilbed  in  this  confidence,  that  the  Lord  will  never  leave 
us  nor  forfakc  us. 

T  5  Confi- 


^77 

Byferiom  medi" 
tat  ion  on  thefe 
promijes  tve 
rt'Uft  fett'c  our 
felves  in  bclie- 
vini,r»hich  is 
veiy  necejiary. 


-r 


278 


Prevention  of 
ai  objection. 


*pfal.i30,4. 


1  Gor.9.z7. 

2  Tim. 4.7, ?• 


ilohn.4.19. 


I  what  it  is  to  live  l?^  Faith  tot^chin^ 

Confid  ;nce  in  the  promifes  of  psrfevcrance  doth  encou- 
rage and  quicken  in  a  Chriftian  courfe,ftabli{h  in  wcl  do- 
ing, and  hearten  againft  the  greateft  difficulties.   Of  old  it 
bach  bcene  objeded  againltthc  doflrine  of  afliiranceof 
not  falling  away,  that  it  doth  fct  open  a  doore  to  all  licen- 
tioufnefle :  for  if  men  cannot  fall  from  their  (late  of  hap- 
pinerte,  why  fliou'd  they  feare  to  commit  all  kind  of  wic- 
kednefle.  But  he  that  hath  faith  in  dee -^,  will  not,  nay,  he 
I  cannot  take  courage  to  goe  on  in  fin,  upon  thi^  pretence, 
I  that fai'h  once hadcannot  utterly  be  loll.    The  i^eliever 
knowes  himfelfe  bound  to  the  obedience  of  the  Gofpell, 
though  he  be  freed  from  the  damnation  of  the  law  :  an  j 
certaine  it  is,  that  faith  which  knits  to  Chrift,  doth  leade 
us  forth  in  all  holineflc.    *  Mercy  covering  finnc  doth  be- 
get reverence  :  the  more  affufance  of  falvation  in  a  mans 
foule,  the  more  feare  and  trembling  in  a  mans  courfe.  He 
who  is  beft  affured  hath  moft  power  of  Gods  Spirit,  and 
theftronger  the  Spirit  ofGodis  wi  hin,  the  moreholi- 
nefl'e,  and  fruits  of  grace  without.  Tmul  was  afTiired  that 
nothing  fliould  feperate  him  from  the  love  of  God  in 
Chrift  :  Peter  was  affured,  that  his  faith  iliould  not  failc  ;' 
did  this  make  them  the  more  careleffe  ?  Nay,  rather  the 
more  carefull  to  runne  their  race  -,  the  more  couragious  to 
fight  out  their  comba^e.   The  load-ftone  of  love  is  love  : 
Love  in  the  fuperiour  doth  draw  love  from  the  inferiour: 
and  is  it  then  pofTible  for  us  to  apprehend  fuch  nnfpeakable 
love  of  God  in  choofing  us  to  fuch  an  excellent,  happy, 
unchangeable  condition,  and  not  be  affed:ed  to  love  the 
Lord  agaiiie  ?  Of  neceflity  the  faith  which  continueth 
muft  be  lively,  nor  can  it  imbraccthc  promifes  of  perfe- 
;  ycrance  but  whilft  it  is  lively.   The  more  opcrjtive  faith 
is,  the  greater  our  aflurance  of  future  (landing  ;  if  faith 
be  dormant  or  ianguifh  for  a  time,   for  that  time  we  arc 
to  feeke  of  this  comfort ;  nor  can  it  be  recovered.till  faith 
I  recover,  and  pu:  forth  it  felfe  valiantly  in  combating  a- 
gainil  Saihan,  fubduing  corruption,  and  working  righ- 
jtcouinsfle. 
'  Looke 


tbefremifes  offer  fever ancty^c. 


Looke  how  much  wc  come  fliort  in  believing  the  faiih- 
full  promifes  of  God  concerning  our  future  protcdion 
from  all  hurtfuU  evil^,  (the  grcateft  whereof  is  falling 
away  )  fo  much  are  we  lacking  to  found  peace  and  ftablc 
tranquillitie  of  Minde  and  Confcience.l  he  better  we  have 
learned  to  live  by  faith  in  Chrift,  as  the  Author  and  ^va- 
fhcr  of  our  faith,  and  raifer  of  us  up  at  thelaftday,  the 
greater  and   more  (led  fart  is   our  comfort.    The  men 
of  this  world  be  net  fatisfied  with  the  pofleflion  of  their 
purchafed  inheritance,  but  they  fecke  toftrengthen  and 
aflure  their  title  againft  future  claimcs,  before  they  can 
_  be  quiet.    \Vh:n  a  Chriflian  is  acquainted  with  the  pro- 
miles  of  pardon  and  forgivencflc,  bclicveth  in  Chrift  for 
falvation,  and  is  reconciled  unto  God  ;  When  his  con* 
fcience  is  purged,  that  there  remaineth  no  more  t.  rrible 
remembrance  of  fiiines  paft  j  his  lufts  fubdu;;d  and  van- 
quifhed ;  his  h:art  quieted  from  all  perturbations ;  and  all 
ij)ward  difturbance,  which  was  in  man  againft  hjnifelfc, 
done  away ;  and  when  thefe  things  arc  knownc-utjto  the 
Confcicnce  :  yet  one  thing  is  wanting  to  found  and  full 
peace ;  that  is,  holy  fecurity  for  time  t  j  come  againft  all 
enemies  both  inward  and  outward,  that  they  ftiall  not 
hurt  us  naich  lefte  prevailc  againft  us, For  if  what  wc  pof- 
fcfte  may  utterly  be  loft,  or  what  wc  hope  and  expedt  be 
mccrely  unccrtaine  and  con /edurall,  built  upon  the  good 
ufe  of  our  free-will,  and  not  upon  the  free  and  unchange- 
able grace  of  God,  what  reft  or  quiet  in  refpedof  his 
future  cftatecan  any  man  findc  inhimfelfe?  but  let  the 
heart  be  eftabliOied  in  this,  that  God  will  carrie  him  for- 
ward from  grace  to  grace  till  he  have  brought  him  to  his  i 
everlafting  Kingdome  j  that  his  faith  fliall  never  faile,  the 
gracesof  the  Spirit  fhall  never  wither  and  decay  ;  Sathan 
with  all  his  malice,  the  world  with  the  manifold  allure- 
ments thereof  fliall  never  pre vaile againft  him;thisfreeth 
from  much  heart-griefe,  perplcxirie,  diftruftfull  forrow, 
and  unprofitable  trouble,when  he  feeles  his  ou  nc  weak- 
-j  ncftTe,  thinkcs  of  Sathan  and  the  worlds  power,  hearcs  of 
t  T  4  the 


2  7P 


Xf' 


1 


tTim.i.ii. 


ThegdiHy  arc 
aUowed  to  be- 
lieve their  per- 
feverance. 


280       I  IVhat  it  is  to  live  hj  Fnith  touching 

^  the  falls  of  fome  who  have  gone  farrc  in  the  profcfllon  of 

godlincfle,andca(>s  with  himfclfe  what  perfccutions  may 

be  raifed  againft  him  for  the  truth  and  Gofpell.   This  alfo 

:  refrellieth  the  heart  with  fwcet  and  heavenly  comfort,  m 

i  the  midft  of  thofe  many  trials  &  incumbrances,which  wc 

j  do  and  muft  make  account  to  meet  withall  :  and  this  our 

j  heavenly  Father  knew  to  be  no  more  then  necefiary  tor 

I  our  chearfuU  walking  before  him.    For  the  which  caufe  I 

\  alfofuffer  thefe  thinfSynever.thele([e^  Tarn  not  AJhamed :  for 

I  krtovp  whom  I  have  helievedj  ani  lam  perfwaded  that  he  is 

able  to  keepe  that  which  I  have  committed  unto  him  againH 

that  day> 

And  feeing  God  hath  promifed  to  perfe<5l  the  worke  of 
grace  begun,and  bound  himfelfc  by  covenant  to  confirme, 
ftrengthen,  and  ftablifli  his  children  unto  the  end,  and  in 
the  end  to  give  them  cternall  life^fuch  as  find  any  true  and 
lively  works  of  grace  wrought  in  them,are  allowed  from 
God  to  believe,  that  they  fhall  never  perifh,  nor  quite  be 
broken  off  from  Chrirt,  nor  thofe  living  waters  cleanc  be 
dried  up,  but  not withftanding  their  ownc  infirmities,  and 
the  fore  temptations  wherewith  they  are  opprcflcd,  they 
{hall  be  preferved, upheld,  and  kept  unto  falvation.  For 
what  God  hath  confirmed  by  promife  and  covenant  unto 
his  children,undcrtaken  to  cffccft  by  his  Almighty  power, 
and  ratified  by  earnefl:  and  pawne,that  th:y  are  allowed  to 
believe  and  expeft  from  him  of  his  unchangeable  grace 
and  love.  This  is  the  golden  and  indiflbluble  chaine  which 
R.om,8.3o.  the  Apoftlc  fpeakes  of,  PVhom  he  did  predefiinate^  them 
alfo  bee  called :  and  whom  he  caHed,  them  hee  alfo  jujlified : 
and  whom  hejttfiifled,  them  he  alfo  glorified  s  fo  that  effcdlu- 
all  vocation  is  a  pledge  and  token- of  glorification  to  cn- 
fue. 

a LuV.it. jt.  (  Chrid: »  hath  prayed  for  his  people,  that  their  faith 
b  Mat.6. 1  J.  might  not  faile  :  ^  the  faithfull  pray  inftantly,  Lead  tu  not 
c  lohn  16.13.  ffito  temptation:2inA  ^  that  no  man  might  wavcr,a  promife 
is^nncxcd^ff^hatfoever ye  Jhall  a^k^the  Father  in  my  Name^ 
he  will  give  it  yon.  But  without  queftion,  they  have  allow- 
ance 


thefr&Twfes  ofperfevera^tcej^c. 


2S1 


—  J    C- 


ancc  to  believe  the  obtaining  of  that  which  Chrift  hath 
prayed  for,  and  the  faithful!  aske  of  God  m  the  Name  of 
Chrift  according  to  hi-  will  The  fervants  of  Chrift  who  li- 
ved by  the  like  prctious  faith  with  us,  grounded  upon  the 
faincpromifesj&lubjedtothcfamcteraptationsjbclievcd 
their  perfeverance.  I  am  ^erfwaded,  that  neither  death^  nor 
life^nor  /in^t /s, nor  principa/itie J ^Mor  powers ^nor  things  pre~ 
fent,  nor  things  to  comfy  nor  height  nor  depth ^  nor  any  other 
creature ^jhall  be  able  tofepfrate  from  the  Love  ofGod^rehich 
ii  in  Chrifl  him  our  Lord,  ^ccor^inq^  to  mine  earnefl  ex- 
pe^lationycindmy  hope  that  in  nothing  ipjallbe  afljamed:  but 
that  Tvith  a/lboIIr.ejfe,at  alwayes  fonow  alfo  ChriU JhaU  bee 
magnified  in  my  body^  rvhether  it  bee  by  life  or  by  death, 
9y€nd  the  Lord  fh all  deliver  mee  -from  every  evill  rvorke 
and  will  preferve  me  unto  his  heavenly  kingdomey  to  whom 
bee  glory  for  ever  and  ever,  <iAmen,  But  what  one  belie- 
ved upon  common  and  ordinary  grounds,  that  '^  the  pri- 
viledge  of  all  believers  whicn  they  arc  allowed  to  re- 
ceive. 

It  is  a  great  glory  to  God,  that  we  live  by  faich  on  him 

concerning  our  future  eftatc,  and  rclie  upon  his  gracc,that 

in  all  encounters  we  fhall  be  more  then  Contjueroursy 

through  him  that  loved  us.    For  this  is  to  take  God  to  be 

I  our  God,  not  onely  to  put  our  confidence  in  him  in  pro- 

jfpcrityand  advcriity,  when  we  have  meanes,  ormeanes 

be  wanting,  for  our  foulcs  and  bodies  :  but  alfo  to  relie 

j  upon  him,  that  he  will  make  us  walkc  in  his  Commande- 

I  mcnts,  and  put  his  feare  in  our  hearts,  that  we  (hdl  not 

depart  from  him;  that  he  will perfedl his  worke begun 

in  us,  finifh  our  faith,  and  preferve  us  unto  his  everlafting 

kingdomc.   This  faith  doth  give  unto  God  the  praife  of 

all  grace  which  he  is  pleaftd  to  beftow,and  of  a'l  workes 

of  grace  which  he  effedeth  by  us.   He  that  relicth  upon 

the  s;ood  ufe  of  his  free-will,  muft  neceflarily  afcribe  the 

fraifeof  his  perfeverance  in  part,  if  uot  principally,  unto 
imfclfe  :  but  he  that  reQeth  upon  the  Lord  for  cftablifti- 
ment  againft  all  fpirituall  enemies,  and  ability  unto  cvc- 

Ty 


» iohn.5.14. 


Rom.8.j8,39 


Fhil.1.20. 


aTim.j.iS. 


-r 


282 


what  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  touching 


TheaSfsoJaitb 
concerning  per- 
feverance. 
I. 


t  C01-.3.5. 


ry  good  workc,  he  muft  ncccifarily  afcribc  the  whole 
praifc  unto  the  glory  oi  Gods  grace,  upon  which  he  do.h 
depend.  " 

The  a<5ls  of  faith  concerning  pcrfeverance  be  thefe  and  ' 
fuch  hke.  | 

Firft,  Itmakesaman  fcnfibleofhisownefrailcie,  and 
infirmity  5how  weake  and  feeble  he  is,  apt  not  only  to  fall,  ' 
but  even  to  fall  away,if  he  were  not  upholden  by  the  grace  I 
andpowcvo^God,Netthatwe  are  [efficient  ofourfelves  to  1 
thinke^ny  thing  as  ofourjehesihttt  oarfajjiciencie  is  efGod,  \ 
Naturally  wetruft  m  our  lelves,  and  arc  prefumptuons  of  \ 
our  flrength  :  but  when  by  faith  we  goc  forth  of  our  j 
fclves  unto  God  for  helpc,  we  can  fee  nothing  in  our  . 
felves  but  weakncfle  and  frailtie,\ -.';-,  V-..5\  v.:  ;  ?j 

Secondly,  It  ftirres  up  holy  jcaloufie  and  fufpition,  left . 
we  (hould  coole,  decay,  ftart  afide,  or  fall  backc.  faith  is  [ 
bold  and  timerous,  confident  and  fufpitious :  confident  in 
God ,   fufpitious  of  our   fclves.     /  was  Afraid  ( faich  ; 
^Gi'tlCs'pirim-  ^^^^  ^^  '^'^  ""-^  v^orkest,  k»9wi»gy  that  if  I  dii  wickedly, 
all  fVatcb  pa2.\  *^^  vfo^tdjl:  not  acquit  mf.   And  this  fufpition  doth  beget 
8^.        '      1  care  to  fhunne  occafions  of  finne,  and  watchfulncfTe  to  ; 
I  prevent  fpirituall  diftcmpers»  A  nnan  jealous  of  his  health 
is  warie  in  his  diet :  and  hs  that  hath  his  foule  in  fufpi-  ^ 
tion  will  ever  be  queftioning  withit,and  watching  over  it , 
leafthcOiouldoiFcnd.  Tnis  jealouric  is  ever  waking,  apt  j 
to  cad  the  word  that  may  fall  out,  but  to  counfell  the  beft, 
that  is,  tokecpefarre  from  the  occafions  offin,  abftaine 
from  all  appearance  of  evitl,and  take  hecde  of  the  fnare  in  j 
lawfullbufincfles.  of  this  life.  And  furely,  in  this  kinde, ' 
confidering  our  great  frailty,  it  is  more  behoovefullfor  a 
man  to  be  fome  what  too  heedieandcautelous,  then  to  be 
a  little  too  fecure  and  felfe  confident :  to  be  fufpitious  of , 
his  weakneffe  that  he.inay  be  enabled  by  God  and  become  j 
f.rong  in  him,  then  while  he  is  foole-hardic  and  ftrong  in  1 
his  owne  conceit.,  to  run  into  danger,and  prove  weake  in  1 
triall._    .  lo^L-io.I  Ji'  • 

Thirdly,  Taith  inflantly  crieth  unto  the  Lord  for  helpc,  I 

and: 


thefroTftifes  of pr fever  dncCj  Sec. 


1     283 


and  ftrcngtb,  and  continuall  Cupply  of  grace.  Hs/dup  my 
gshgs  in  thjpAtlos,that  my  footjteps flip  ttot.  I mU  k^epc  thy 
fiatntcs :  O  forfake  fne  net  utterly.  Lookf  thou  upon'me,  ahd 
ke  msrcifuU  unto  mec\is  thou  ufefl  to  dee  unto  thofe  that  love 
thy  Name.Qrder  mjjieps  in  thy  tPord^And  let  not  any  inicjtii- 
ty  hAve  dominion  over  me.  UrAw  me,  rvee  will  ruftne  after 
thee.  Shew  me  thy  rvaief,  O  Lord-^  teach  me  thy  paths.  Lead 
mf  in  thy  truth,ayid teach  me:forthou  art  the  Godofmyfal- 
vation^  on  thee  doe  I  veaite  all  the  day  long.  When  men  be 
conlcious  to  themfclves  of  their  own  wants,  they  are 
wont  to  rcfort  unto  others  by  whom  their  wants  may  be 
fupplied  :  The  Believer  is  emptie  in  himfelfc,  and  fenfiblc 
of  his  ownc  weakneflTcjdefirous  of  riipply,and  confident  of 
help  in  God,who  alone  is  able  to  conftrmeand  (Irengthen 
him,  yea  fo  to  inable  him  notwithftanding  his  infirmity, 
that  his  power  and  might  fliall  appcare  in  him  amidft 
bis  fcebleneflc,  and  his  very  infirmity  fliall  make  much 
for  his  glory  :  and  therefore  he  will  notceafeday  after 
day  to  rcpairc  unto  him  for  continuall  fupply  and  ftrcngtb 
ofgrace.  '  ^  •  '>    ■  -'  "    '• 

Fourthly,  Faith  defireth;  digefteth,  and  fcc^lcth  upon 
the  whollbme  food  of  life,  ^s  new  home  habes  defire 
the  jincere  m'dkf  of  the  Word,  that yee  may  ^row  thereby. 
If  the  body  be  healthfull,  and  in  cafe  to  grow  in  ftrcngtb, 
there  will  be  an  appetite  to  wholclome  foodjand  good  di- 
gcftion  by  the  ftomacke ;  every  living  thing  hath  a  facul- 
tie  to  draw  nourilliment  unto  it  fclfe-.and  the  faith  which 
never  faileth  doth  not  onely  covet,  but  kindly  digeft  the 
Word  of  life,  and  fiickc  nouriflimcnt  from  it,  where- 
by it  is  made  able  and  ftrong  to  every  good  word  and 
workc.  If  the  ftomacke^ecay,  or  the  appetite  be  inor- 
dinate after  things  hurtful!  and  unwholfome  food,  or  the 
digeftion  ill,  that  mcatc  taken  in  pafleth  away  not  altc- 
re  J  by  the  ftomacke,  the  naturall  life  is  in  danger ;  {o  the 
life  of  grace  languiftieth,  when  onr  appetite  to  the  word 
decay eth,  we  aft':(ft  cartlily  things  immoderately,  delight 
in  a  frothy,  windic,  vaine  found  of  words,  which  plcafcrh 

the 


ifal.17.5. 

Pfal.iis.8. 


Cant  1.4. 
inil.lj.4,J. 


X  Tim  4.17. 
iCcr.  11.9,10 
%  Cor.4.7, 


4^ 

2  Pct.a.s. 


284 


JVffat  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  touching 


the  care,  but  edificch  not  the  confcicncc,  or  it  wc  hcarc 
fleigbtlf  ,wc  take  not  paincs  to  teed  fubftancially  upon  the 
Word.Idenienot,but  a  lively  never-fading  faith  is  fiib/ca: 
to  thefe  and  more  grievous  diftcmpers  for  a  time,  but  in 
this  languifliing  fit,  though  it  be  not  unto  death ;  untill  it 
recover,  it  is  unable  to  embrace  the  promifes  of  perfevc- 
rance:  and  the  more  lively  it  is  to  receive  thofe  promifes, 
the  more  earncftly  doth  it  defire  and  fweetly  feed  upon 
the  Word  of  grace. 

Fiftly,  It  putteth  forth  it  fclfe,  to  pcrforme  all  duties 
of  holinefic  and  love,  with  life  and  fervour  :  It  laboureth 
and  taketh  paincs  in  wel-doii  g.    For  IdlencfTe  corrupts 
naturall  ftrcngth ;  ufe  and  exercife  confirmes  it.  Dull  and 
fluggifli  adlions  argue  feeblenes  of  the  faculty,  and  tend 
unto  decay ;  as  if  we  doe  not  things  with  that  vigour  we 
have  done,  it  is  a  fignc  of  infirmity,  and  of  a  faculty  in- 
wardly or  outwardly  hindered  ^nd  if  wc  reft  in  fuch  a  per- 
fumflory  courfe  and  challenge  not  our  felves  for  it,  we  are 
in  danger  to  grow  worfc  and  worfe.  But  livelinefle  and 
contention  in  doing  is  both  an  argument  of  good  difpofi- 
tion,  and  a  meanes  of  incrcafe.   The  more  lively  faith  is, 
the  better  it  worketh :  and  the  more  it  worketh,  the 
fafter  it  growetb.   Life  is  the  daily  and  continuaU  vigour 
of  a  living  fubftance  :  and  every  thing,  as  it  is  moft  lively 
and  likely  to  continue,  the  more  it  do:h  {how  forth  it 
ftrcngth  in  working.    For  a  time  faith  may  fall  aflecpe, 
and  the  anions  of  faith  be  heanlefic,  dull,  and  perfur.dio- 
rie :  but  faith  now  afleepc  will  awake  anone,  fliake  up  it 
fclfe,  ftirre  up  afFedions,  rtfiftfloth,  blow  up  devotion, 
and  reftlefl'cly  afpire  after  heavenly  things.  And  like  as  it 
is  with  them,  whofe  going  backc  helpeth  them  to  take 
their  rife  and  fetch  their  kape  more  corrmodioufly,  or 
whofe  lingring  fof  a  fcaf  )n  makes  them  o  ply  their  bufi- 
ncfTe  the  clofer  afterward  I  So  here,  faith  (through  him 
that  is  the  Author  and  finifhcr  of  it)after  fuch  rcraiileneflc 
doth  renue  its  indeavours,3nd  with  more  vigour  and  holy 
contention  fet  upon  the  workcs  of  piety  and  godlinefle, 

ftirre 


tkpramfes  ofperfevef^/ince^Scc, 


285 


'<  -s^ 


ftirrcuP  thcgrai:e?of  t^JC  Spirit,  tic  up  the  thoughts ro 
'heavjsMy'tbrn2».l  hour  againft.wmck  and  tide,  and  walke 
hifoic  God  in  all  wcl-  plcafuig,  though  not  without  great 

Sixtlv;  It  covcteth  c--  creafc  of  grace  and  fanaification; 
H.afe  mee,  O  Lord,  and  J (hali  h,  hr^/ed:  f^vi  me,  and! 
Jhall  bef^ved:  for  thou  art  my  praife.  Lord  be  mcrofua 
Mnt0  f»ee,  he^lf  my  foule,  for  I hAVC  finned  ag^tnH  thee. 
How  are  men  sff^Aed  in  recovering  bodily  health  lamc- 
what  better  will  not  content  or  fatisfie  >  W  hen  they  can 
fit  up,  but  notable  to  walke  up  and  downe  the  cham- 
ber, oh  that  .hey  had  a  little  ftrength  to  ftirre  :  when 
they  dare  walke  within  doorcs,  oh  that  they  cculd  ftirrc 
abroad,  then  that  their  ftomackcs  were  returned,  and 
they  co'uld  walke  in  their  accuftomed  ftrength.  Every 
livina  thing,  the  more  it  doth  live,  the  niore  it  coveteth 
perfeaion  oHifc  initkinde.  And  fo  ,s  faith  aftcded  in 
receiving  fpiriciiall  ftrength  froin  the  fickneHc  ot  fin, 
till  it  feele  it  felfe  enlarged  to  walke  conftantly  and  chear- 
fully  before  theXord,  yea,  till  it  be  pcrfedly  recovered, 

which  cannot  be  fo  long  as  we  ^^"/^^^^"^'i^'^^^.^^X 

of  death.  By  reafon  man  excelleth  the  be.fts,by  h«linefle 

hcexcellethhimfclfe,  inferiour  onlv  to  the  Angels  in  de- 

grec,  and  made  like  untothe  Lord,  as  f.r  re  as«creamrc 

may  be  to  his  Crcatour.     Sin  is  the  fickneiTc  of  the  foulc, 

fo  much  morelothfome  and  dangerous  then  diftempers  of 

the  body,  as  the  foule  is  more  excellent  then  the  bcxly : 

Holineffc  is  the  health,  ocnamcnt,  andexceUenoy  otthe 

foule,  as  farrefurpaffing  it  in  werth,  as  nma  dotb  the  b^ 

,  ieft  creature  in  dignity  and  honour.   There  is  no  trouble, 

fliame,  and  forrow  to  fin  :  there  is  no  honour  and  com- 

Iforttoholinefle  and  fanaification.    A"^^^!"S^!l,^X^^^ 

iture  of  holincfie,  fo  is  the  fruit ;  tkemcrchand^fe  there^ 

Ufi,  better  then  the' merch^ndife  af  fdver,  and  the ga.ne 

\thcre.fthen  fine  gold ^,    It  ts  nu>re^  fretu,^  'hen  r^es^ 

UndJhatfoever  cL  bee  defred  r^ithount,  t     rJ/.Z'^ 

fared  uL  it.  The  natuvall  man  iKglefteth  to  feeke  after 


6. 

Icr.17.14. 

rfal  41.4. 


'j.bju; 


.C>..'i.l3'[ 


Pfov.3.14.15 


H 


i85 


,    7. 


•»  Ephef.4.7. 
John.6.j5,j7 


8. 

E2ck.36.27. 
Icr.3t.40. 

Iohn.6.54. 


what  it  u;  to  live  hy  Fmth  touching  \ 

holinejrc  or  take  paincs  to  get  it,  bccaufe  he  fccles  not  the 
licknc  fie  of  his  foulc,  nor  undcrftands  the  worthand  fruit' 
.  of  grace  :  But  the  trnc  Believer,  u^o  is  grieved  with  his ' 
inhrmities,  and  knowes  the  excellcncic  and  comfort  of* 
ipintUiU  health,  cannot  but  dcfire  and  covet  grace 
more  and  more,  that  in  due  time  he  might  be  perfcAIy 

Seventhly,  Ttrcceivetbncw  fuppVofgracecontinu- 
ally  from  Jelus  Chrift  the  fountainc  of  grace.  Ofhi^fu/ 
nejfe  hAve  wee  all  received,  artel  grace  for  arace  :    Chrift 
IS  an  cver-flowing  fountaineof  grace,  ofwiiofe  plenty  all  ! 
believers  are  abundantly  partakcrs,and  that  from  one  de- 
grcc  ot  grace  to  another,  though  not.ali  in  the  fame  mea   ' 
lur^  and  degree.   Water  in  a  ditch,  which  hath  f>oiivin>  ■ 
ipringtofccdit,  isfoonedriedup:  but  the  pond,  which 
IS  nouriftied  continually  with  frcdi  fprings,  doth  not 
feare  the  drought  of  Summer,  or  fcorching  hcaf  of  the 
.Sunne.Jhe  Temporaric,who  was  never  knit  unto  Chrift 
asahvingnatarall  and  proper  member,  may  fall  away 
from  that  which  he  fecmed  to  have  •  But  the  true  Belie- 
^«J'  1"  *  whom  Chrift,  the  fountainc  of  life,  dwdleth 
who  daily  receives  grace  from  him  according  b  to  the  r^ea^ 
fure  of  the  gift  cfchrifi,  he  fhall  never  Utterly  be  deftitute. 
Hee  that  cAteth  wyfiejh,  anddrinkethvty  hlond,  dmlleth  in 
meeandjinMm,    Asthc HvingFathirhathfentme,  andl 
Uve  by  the.Fathfr  :fo  hcethAt  eateth me,  even  hecMUlive 

Eightly,  It  affurethofpcrfeveranccthronghfuch  pro- 
mifesasthefc;  Imll  makeym^o'i^alke.inmyCommanL 
dements ;  /jp,//  put  my  feare  In  y^Hr  heart,  that  joHlhali 
not  depart  who  fo  eattth  my  flefi^,  and  driiketh  my 
hloHd  hath  eternall  life,  and  I  will  raife  hhn  np  at  the 

fu^l  ?"^f^^^h  §^^eth  afruranceofperfeveranceas.it 
<iothot  the  pardon  and  forgivenefTe  of  fins  •  and  wliat  is 

Now  if  a  Chriftian  would  ftirrc  up  his  faith  to  believe 
the! 


thefromfes  offerf&verance,^c. 

the  promifcs  of  pcrfcvcrancc,  when  he  fceles  his  ownc 
weakncffc,  and  confidcreth  thc'ftrengih  and  malice  of  his 
Adverfaries. 

Firft,  Let  him  heartily  bewailc  his  pronencflc  to  fitanc, 
aptncflc  to  decline,  inability  to  withftand  any  one  temp- 
tation, or  fet  one  ftep  forward  in  the  way  to  Heaven. 
Woe  is  mc,  poorc  wretched,  blinde,lamc,  crooked,fickc, 
impotent,  unQablc  as  the  running  water  :  How  was  I 
bewitched  with  lelfc-confidcncc  and  conceit  of  fpirituall 
fulncflc  ?  Ihaveprclnmcduponmy  wifdoiViC,  asfuffici- 
ent  tcxlire(5l  my  wayes  ;  and  Icincdupon  my  ftrength,  as 
able  to  make  refinance  againft  temptations,  ftand  upon 
mine  owne  bottomc,  and  go  through  ftitch  with  my  re- 
folutions :  But  nowlfindc  my  wifdomc  is  ignorancf, 
vanity,  and  folly,  my  ftrength  weaknefle :  I  am  unable  to 
tbinkeonc  good  thought,  fet  one  flep  forward  towards 
Heaven,  keepe  my  (landing,  or  withftand  the  leaft  aflaulr. 
In  painci  am  pettifli,  under  crofics  faint,  heartlefle,  dif- 
contenr,  ready  to  flie  at  the  found  of  perfecution,fecurc  in 
profpcrity,  puffed  up  with  comforts,  apt  to  be  Led  away 
with  worldly  allurements.    My  fpirttuall  tafte  is  diftcm- 
peredwith  carna  11  vanities,  which  rclirbfweeterto  mc 
then  the  mercies  of  God  in  Chrift ;  mine  appetite  to  the 
Word  and  food  of  life  n  abated,  my  zcale  decayed,  mine 
affcftions  dull  to  good,  my  devotion  cooled,  myconfci- 
cnce  bcnummcd.  I  hcare,  but  feed  not  upon  the  Word  -, 
my  Prayers  arccoldjheartle{rc,roving ;  in  earthly  imploy- 
mcnts  I  kecpeno  moderation  daily  weaknefles  and  leflcr 
finncs  goe  downc  without  reludation  :  the  motions  of 
the  Spirit  quickly  die,  the  motions  of  the  fiefli  live  and 
get  ftrength,  admonition  is  fruitles,  reproofe  unwelcome. 
In  my  courfe  I  am  ready  to  ftumble  at  every  rub,linger  af- 
ter every  baitc  laid  by  Sathan  or  the  world  to  catch  mc, 
and  totter  upon  the  fmallcft  tcntation.   Every  day  I  haivc 
greater  experience  of  my  weakencfie  then  other,  foonc 
diftempcrcd  and  put  out  of  frame,;  i^by  any  meanes  fox 
a-littlc  time  my  heart  be  brought  into.fome,bctter  order,I 

am 


287 


vpourfelveno 
ielU'he  thc/e 

pr«mi/es  0  per 

jevcrsKce. 
I. 


yi,'^ 


^t 


3. 


WhAt  it  is  to  live  b'j  Faith  tmthiff^ 


am  forgcttull  of  my  purpofesjncgligcnt  of  the  opportuni- 
ties to  get  good,  diftradledwith  lawful!,  bufincfle,  and 
wearie  of  the  workcs  of  my  call  ing,pcr  picxcdar  the  trofis. 
blcs  I  met  te  with,  giving  way  "to.  fro  wftKfinHfel  noclbo-  ! 
king  up  to  God :  unthankful!  for  mercies,  trifling  out  the  ' 
time  in  foolifli  furmifes,  vainc  ploddings,  and  unpro- 
fitable fpeeches.  The  poore,  leanc,  thinno  fpuiiis  of 
grace,  which  through  the  mercy  of  God  now.  and  dien  j 
Icfpiein  my  fclfc,  thefe .-proclaiQie  rhy  (icke  and  feeble 
ftate :  my  thoughts  and  meditations  of  good  arc  poore  ' 
and  few  ;  drivings  agaifift  fin  wcake,  appetite  to- the 
wholfome  food  oflife  fmall,  digcflrion  flow,  obedience 
marvellous  defective  and  in  a  manner  livelcfTc.  IJive  un- 
der the  powerfiill  meanes  of  grace,  cn/oy  many  hdp's  in 
private,  am  free  from  many  great  tcntations,  whcrewiffi 
others  are  exercifed  inrefpefl  of  their  outward  condition, 
blcffed  with  the  fociety  of  them  that  fearc  God,  pruned 
and  drefled  by  my  heavenly  Father,  and  yet  I  reclc,  wa- 
ver, am  tofled  to  and 'fro,  and^ready  to  fall  upon  every 
occafidn.  Ah,  wretched  man  that  I  am,  how  fhall' 
I  be  able  to  ftand, '  i^ the  mcanes-ftioul \  faile,  perfe- 
cutions  be  railed,  or  the  powers  officii  let  loofc  upon 
me. 

Secondly,  He  mufl:  ftirre  up  birafclfe toreft  upon  God 
through  Jefus  Chrift,  for  eftabliflimcftt  and  confirnr>ati- 
on.  Why  (houldlfearebyreafonofmin^if^firmities,  or 
the  maliceof  my  fpirituall  enemies  >  I  am  ficke,  but  Cod 
is  my  phyfitian  ;  weake,  but  God  is  my  focke,  my 
ftrength,  my  high  tower  •  I  like  a  l6ft  fheepe  am  feady 
to  goe  aftray,  but  the  Lord  is  my  Shepheard,  and  will 
not  fuffer  mee  to  perifb.  Chrifts  intercelTion  is  ever 
cffe(5luall  :  but  he  hath  prayed  that  my  faith  ftiould  not 
faile,  and  promifed  that  the  gates  of  hell  (hall  not  prc- 
vaile.  The  fons  of  e-^«^-^w,  mortall  by  birth,  dan  never 
grow  beyond  the  ftate  of  mortality :  'the  children  of  God 
borne  of  immortall  feed  can  never  fall  from  the  ffatfe 
of  immortality.  True  faitk  isa  never  fading  faith,  the  life 

of 


the^fomifa  offerfeveranct,^c. 


of  grace  an  cvcrlafting  life,  the  water  of  lifeja  well  fprhr 
gingunto  eternal!  life.    Chn'ft  once  died  forfinre,  never 
to  dxz  any  more  :  and  he  that  h'veth  in  Chrift  fliall  live  for 
ever.  Indeed  if  faith  u  ere  the  worke  of  free  will,  or  had 
dependance  upon  if,  it  migl  t  wellperiili,  butbcirgthe 
intire  gift  of  God  according  to  his  purpofc  of  grace,  it 
muft  needs  partake  of  tlic  unchangablc  love  of  Gocf^ 
which  is  the  fountaine  whence  it  fpringeth.  I  will  walke 
jealous  of  my  felfe,  becaufe  feeble  and  apt  to  offend  ;  but 
confident  in  Gods  mercy  and  grace,becaufe  he  is  faithful!, 
who  fhall  confirme  me  unto  the  end,    and  perfcd  his 
worke  he  hath  begun,    ^!y  care  fliall  be  to  '(zt^  up- 
on the  word  of  life,  to  fliunnc  Hn  and  the  occafions  lea- 
ding thereunto,  to  cry  for  aid  and  ftrength ;  and  when  I 
ht\Q  my  felfe  ready  to  (inke,  I  will  hang  upon  the  Lord; 
for  his  power  (hall  fuftainemf,  his  right  hand  fhall  up- 
hold me,  and  by  his  might  1  fliaU  be  kept  through  faith 
unto  falvation.    <tA brni[ed  reede  fhAll  hee  nothreakf,  And 
fmoahjng  flaxe  fhall  hce  r;ot  cjuench,   till   hee  fend  forth 
y^dgement  into  vi^orj :  "'his  povVcr  fliall  be  magnified  in 
my  weakneflc. 

Thirdly,  He  muft  pray  inftantly,  that  God  would  up- 
hold him,  and  mnkc  him  to  fee  that  he  will  eflablifh  him 
unto  the  end.    Our  ftrength  is  of  Gocf,  and  it  is  of  him 
that  we  know  or  be  aflured,  that  through  the  power  of 
his  grace  we  (liall  (land  firms  and  unmoveablc.    The 
flate  of  a  Believer  is  fure,  and  itisimpolTibletheele^ 
fliould  be  deceived :  but  as  they  (land  by  the  grace  of 
God,  fo  it  is  of  God  that  they  know  their  (landing.  O 
Lord  God  of  heaven,  the  great  and  terrible  God,  that 
kcepeth  covenant  and  mercy  for  them  that  rcfl  upon  thy 
gratious  promifc  and  defirc  to  yeeld  up  themfelves  in' 
obedience  to  thy  Commandcments,    looke  mercifully 
upon  me,  thy  Weake  unworthy  fervant  :    healc  mine 
infirmities,  for  they  are  many,  and  (lablifh  mc  by  thy 
free  Spirit,  for  I  am  brought  very  low.    Remember,  I 
bcfecch  thee,  the  word  of  thy  covenant,  faying,  Irvill 

V  i^f'^'f 


289 


Mr.ttlMa.io. 
I C  or.  1 2  9. 


i- 


290 


Icr.j»39340' 


j         U$iv  to  live  by  Faith  in  time  ofTem^tation^ 

give  thtm  one  heart  And  one  way  that  they  may  fe  are  me  for 
.every  for  the^oodofthem^  and  of  their  children  after  them, 
{ ^And  [  win  make  4-/t  everUft-in^  covenant  with  thsm^  that  I 
1  yvid  not  tame  away  from  them  to  doe  them  good, bnt  IwiUpttt 
\  myfeare  in  their  hearts,  that  they  jhall  not  depart  from  mee. 
j  Now  I  am  thy  poore  creature,  the  worke  of  thine  hands 
whom  thou  haft  made ;  thy  poore  fervanc  with  whom 
thou  haft  ftricken  covenant  unto  whom  thou  haft  ftiewed 
this  mercy,  thatldefirc  tofcarcthyName  :  OLord,  I 
belecch  thee,  teach  mc  thy  way,  make  mc  to  walke  in  thy 
truth,  unite  my  heart  to  thy  feare,  confirmc,  ftrengthen, 
ftabhfh  mcunto  the  end,  and  make  me  to  know  that  by 
thy  power  I  fnall  be  inabled  to  ftand  faft,  and  vanquifti 
the  enemies  of  my  falvation,  that  I  may  fight  manfully, 
obey  cheerfully,  perfift  undaunted,  and  re/oyce  in  thy  (ai- 
vation  all  the  dayes  of-  my  life. 


CHAP.  VI. 

How  to  live  by  faith  in  time  of  Temptation,  when 

SAthan  encounters  and  feekes  to  winnow 

the  poore  fervants  of 

C^rifi, 


H 


O  fooner  doth  a  Chriftian  fet  himfelfc  unfaincdly  to 

fee ke  the  Lord,  but  Sathan  with  all  his  malice,  fub- 

I  Pet.  J.3.        tiltic,  might,  and  furicdoth  make  out  after  him,  aflaying 

by  inward  fuggeftions  and  outward  tcntations  agame  and 

j  againe  reiterated  to  difcourage,  turne  backCj  and  utterly 

overthrow  him.   The  fervants  of  Chrift  are  all  fouldiers, 

and  have  continuali  warre  not  with  fiefh  and b Ion i^^ut  with 

P  •  •»  J  -•   principalities  and  powers,  and  (piritHallwichedne^es,    This 

Encouraze-    \  ^^'^^  "^"^  ^xpcd,  they  have  f  worne  it,and  arc  called  unto 

mtniitoTefifi    it  of  the  Lord  J  who  for  their  incouragement  doth  not 

"icith-in .         ,  only  acquaint  them  w  ith  the  ncccflity  of  the  fight,the  juft- 

'  1  neffc 


w  hen  SAthan  encounters  thefervmts  ofChnft, 


ncffe  of  tfecir  caufe,thc  weight  of  the  bufincfTe^thc  honour 
of  the  combat,  the  reward  ofvi(flory  ihhc)  overcome, 
that  he  himfclfc  doth  behold  and  approve  the  valiant ;  but 
alio  by  hisfaithfull  promifedoth  afurethcmcf  ftrength 
and  vidory.  This  is  fignified  in  the  firft  promiTe.  It  fhaU 
bruife  thy  heucf,  and  then  pi  alt  bruife  his  heek  :  which 
properly  being  underftood  of  Chrift,  by  communication 
of  grace  doth  belong  to  all  the  faithfuU.    Simon^  Simon, 
behold  Sathan   hath  dejired  to  have  joh,    that  hee  might 
Jift  you  at  voheate  :  But  I  have  prayed  fer  thee,  that  thy 
faith  faile  not.    wherefore  ta^  unto  you  the  rchole  armour 
of  God,    that  yce   may  bee  able  to  nithfland  in  the  evill  j 
diy,  a»d  having  do7ie  all  tojlar.d.    Refifl  the  Divell,  and 
hee  will  flee'fi'om  jotf.    Hee  that  is  begsttctt  of  Godkeepeth 
himfelfej  and  that  wicked  one  t»kcheth  him  KOt,    The  gates 
of  hfll  p.-all  not  prevaile  again jl  it.    For  I  am perfivaded, 
that  neither  death,  nor  life,  nor  Angels,  nor  principalities, 
nor  poTvers,  nor  things  prefent^  nor  thi;igs  to  come.     2^r 
height,  nor  depth,  nor  any  other  creature,  JJjall  bee  able  to 
feperate  us  from  the  love  of  (^od,  which  is  in  Chrift  lefus 
our  Lord.    Sathan  was  the  (Irong  man  armed,  who  pof- 
feflcdall  in  peace  :  but  our  Saviour  hath  overcome  him, 
taken  from  him  all  his  armour,  and  divided  his  fpoi  cs- 
Having  fpoiled principalities  and  powers^  hee  made  afhew  of 
them  openly,   triumphing  over  them  upon  the(^rojfe ;  and 
fo  through  death  hath  dcHroyed  him  that  had  the  power  of  \ 
death,  that  isy  the  T>ivetly  that  hee  might  deliver  all  them  \ 
which  for fe  are  of  death  were  all  their  lifefubje^  to  bondage.  \ 
ivhtrefore  he  faith,  when  he  afcended  up  on  high, be  ledcapti- 
vitie  captive » 

In  this  ftate  of  temptation  the  fcrvants  of  God  arc  al- 
lowed to  live  by  faith.  For  the  God  of  peace  hatli  pro- 
mifedto  tread  Sathan  un^'er  our  feet  Jhortlj,  opportunely. 
When  Sathan  may  feeme  to  prevaile  and  getthc  vidorie, 
God  will  fpcedily  bruife  and  crufli  him  under  the  feet  of 
the  faith  full,  leart  heQiould  hurt  or  ovfrthrow  their  fal- 
vation.   The  craft  of  Sathan  is  threat  to  deceive,  but  God 

y\  will 


25»I 


Apoc.j.zi. 
Promt fes  of 
Gen.  J,  I  5. 


Luk.2] 


ii>32 


Ephef  6.15. 

Iim.4.7. 

I  Iohn.y.18, 


Rom.8.j8,j9 


I-u!f.II.2I, 


Col.i.i  J-, 


Hcb.i.i4,iy. 

Epher.4.8. 

Thegg.Uy  are 
al/otvcd  to  bc' 
lieve  tie  promt' 
fes  of  vi{fo)y. 
Rcna. 16.20, 


■^ 


292 


Ji^rnf  to  live  bj  Faith  in  timeofTem^tation:^ 


zCor.i2.7,8,j 
Roin.6, 14. 


Ffal.6o,iX. 


I  loh.^.zj. 


Jam.!.?. 
Efay.30.  If 

I  rct.f  9. 


will  teach  wifdomc  and  providence  to  difccrnc  and  difap- 
poiiit  his  ftratagsras.  The  power  of  Sathan  is  greatto 
moieft,  buc  if  we  fight  manfiilly  againft  him,  not  tru- 
fting  in  our  owne  ftreni^th,  bat  in  the  living  Lordj  we 
fliall  obtaine  a  joyfiill  vi(floric.  Wc  muft  not  be flothfuU 
nor  felfc-confidenr,  but  valiant  in  the  Lord,  andthefuc- 
ceffe  is  ccrtaine  through  his  blefled  aide.  Through  Goi  vte 
fl/xll  viae  Vitliantlj  :  for  he  it  is  that  fhnli  tread  dc-wne  our  ene^ 
mies, 

This  14  the  commAndement  of  God j  that  we  believe  in  the 
name  of  his  Sonne  leftu  Chrift.    Nothing  is  fa  glorious  to 
God :  nothing  fo  profitable  to  us .    It  doth  give  God,  is 
it  were,  a  tcftimoniall  of  his  truth,  power,  mercy  and 
goodnelTc.  And  for  our  felvcs,  it  is  our  trcafure,  ftrcwgth 
and  vidlory.  God  hath  chofen  thepoore  of  this  world.rich  in 
faith.    In  ejnietnejfe,  and  in  confidence  fhaU  beyourftrength. 
We  have  a  charge  to  reffi:  the  Divell  flrong  in  the  faith. 
The  more  fiercely  we  be  afl'ailed,  the  more  confidently 
fhould  wc  betake  our  {elves  unto  the  Lord  tor  helpe,who 
is  our  ftrong  caftlcand  rocke  of  defence.  In  peace  if  men 
let  their  armour  hang  by  and  ruft  •,  yet  it  \s  time  to  buckle 
it  about  them,  when  the  enemy  is  at  the  gates,  and  begin- 
nethto  batter  the  walls.The  Lord  permits  Sathan  to  buffet 
us,  that  we  might  be  moved  to  feekeand  take  unto  us 
the  armour  ofa  Chriftian,  more  efpecial'y  to  put  on  the 
fliicld  of  faith.  To  doubt  and  feare  becaufe  we  are  exerci- 
fed  in  fpirituall  combats,  is  as  if  a  fouldier  flbould  lay  afidc 
his  harneflTe,  becaufe  he  is  calhed  forth  to  battell  with 
his  enemies.    The  Apoftle  fpeflking  of  pur  fpirituall  con- 
flidl  with  the  malicious  enemies  ofourfoules,  chargcth 
!  us  not  onely  to  believe,  but  above  all  things  to  labour  af- 
Ephef.^.i^.     ,  f  gr  faith,    i»Above  ,all  things  tahing  the  fhieU  of  faith  : 
(which  manner  of  exhorting  doth  Hie  w  us,  both  what 
care  we  mufl;  haveofit,  and  what  approbation  we  have 
from  God  to  believe.  For  if  we  bid  a  fervaot  buy  many 
things,  but  above  all  fiich  a  thing,  by  his  charge  he  might 
eafily  gather  what  he  flaould  be  carefull  in,  and  what  al- 
lowance 


when  Sathm  (nceHrdcrs  the  fer  v  ants  ojCkrifl, 


lowancc  he  bad  tO'dbjit.Su  wbcp- we  are  coitnfeUcd  above 
all  tilings  t»  get  faithjit  iHjr orll^rd  ^QHptl<rftan^i  that  wc 
mu/i  be  cfa'ctrly  carefivl-  abdlit  i^,  and  that  Grid  {^  wcIJ 
pieafed  we  fhould  io  be. 

Faith  is  one  of  the  firft  things  that  is  formed  in  a  Chri- 
ftian,  and  wherewith  God  ftircifhcth  him,  when  he  pre- 
pareth  and  calleth  him  forth  to  the  encounter  ••  fothat  to 
qucftion  whether  we  flionld  believe,  h  to  queftion  whe- 
ther we  lliould  dedicate  our  felves  to  the  fcrvice  of  God, 
denie  our  iuft.sor  figh^  againft  the  Divcll.  That  which  is 
fabuloufly  fpoken  of  the  Giants  is  trucly  fpoken  of  as;  wc 
I  are  no  fooncr  borne,  then  wchavc  our  fwords  girded  to  I 
[us, ourfhicldsonbiirarmes.  ;r  .  ;. 

The  Lord  Hands  betwixt  bis  children  and  all  dangers 
that  are  intended  aganift  them  by  their  malitious  enemies. 
He  '\^  ever  at  their  right  hand  to  five  their  fodes  from 
death.  And  if  God  ftand  forth  for  their  hclpc,  they  cannot 
better  provide  for  their  ownj  eafc^nd  iai^cty,then  if  they 
confidently  hope  in  the  Lord,and  rcpofe  their  foules  upon 
hismight. 

It  is  ncceftary  that  a  Chriftian  flioiild  live  by  faith  in 
that  condition*  For  all  fpirituall  fouldiers  muft  put  on 
courage,  arid  refolution,  not  to  fearc  the  affaiilts  of  mighty 
enemies,  nor  be  difmaycd  at  any  diiiicultics.  Let  nstjour 
hearts  feare^  tremble  not  hecAufe  of  jour  enemies ;  amtyottr 
felves  like  mett^  hefirong.  But  true  valour  cannot  be  bad 
without  faith  in  Chrift.  St^nAfaft  in  the  faith  y  befirtng. 
The  Diveli  is  like  a  ferpentine  Crocodile,whofe  property 
is,  if  one  follow,  itfliethaway;  if  one  flic,  it  purfuerh 
him.  Riffl  Sathdn.andhe  -m/lflie ;  be  afraid,  and  he  will 
follow.  Cowardifcdoth  encourage  the  advetfary, courage 
daunts  him^  But  courage  i0ijeth  from  found  confidence  m 
the  Lord,  who  is  the  rocke  and  lliield  of  them  that  flic 
unto  him.  rvaite  o»  the  Jlord,be  efgacdcoftrA^e,  andhe/hall 
ftrengthenthy  hedyt,  "Be  firong  and  of  a  good  courage,  fenre 
not,  nerbe  afraid  of  them  :  for  the  Lcrdthy  God  he  it  is  that 
doth  go  wuh  thee,  be  viS  net  failethee,  norferfakf  thee, 

Vj  Of 


25)5 


it  Uttecejarya 
CbnftianJ})uuld 
live  by  faith  in 
thii  ctnditien, 

I  Coi,  16,13. 


lam, 4. 7. 


Pf.ji.i.&7i, 

Pfal.27.14. 
&JI.X4. 

Deut  3i.^,7,t 


-^ 


2P4 


H9tv  to  live  bj  Faith  iniimidfTem^tmor}^ 


I  Pet.  I.J. 
Gen  J,  If. 

Rom.  1 6,  to. 


Rom.  J.  5. 
I  Cor. J.?. 
Aa.5.16. 

Ephef.  6,  10. 


Exofll.14.  13. 


PfaLxoS.  1 1, 


I  Joh.  J.4. 
Match.  x6. 18, 

Ephcr.6.i6. 


A  Tim. 


47. 


Of  our  fclvcs  we  have  no  ftrcngth  to  prcvailc  agaxnfl: 
the  ftrong  one  in  the  world  :  all  our  vidorics  mud  corac 
of  God,  his  power  doth  all  our  workes  for  us.   ff^ee  are 
k^pt  bj  the  power  ofGaduntofaCvation,  he  bruifeth  the  Ser- 
pents hcadjhc  diffolveth  the  workes  of  the  Divell,he  trea- 
deth  Sathan  under  feet.   The  chiefeft  ftrength  of  fouldi- 
crs  lyeth  in  their  Captainc,  who  yet  muft  fight  for  cheoi- 
I  fclves  and  him,  by  their  ownc  power  and  skill :  but  all 
our  ftrength  lyeth  in  Chrift,  the  Captaine  that  leadeth  us 
to  falvation/rom  whom  we  receive  all  power  and  ability 
to  doe  what  is  good,who{e  Almighty  power  fubdueth  all 
things  for  u'?.    We  our  felves  before  our  converfion  arc 
of  no  ftrcngth,  after  alfo  of  no  ftrcngth,  not  fugicient  ta. 
thittke  4geodthoHght :  all  our  fMJficiency  is  of  God,    But  WC 
cannot  be  ftrong  in  the  Lord,  and  \\\  the  power  of  his 
might,  unleffe  we  believe  and  leane  upon  it.    Gods 
ftrcngth  is  the  matter  apprebcnded,faiththe  hand  where- 
by we  apprehend  it.  This  is  our  ftrcngth,  fiandfiili,  f^are' 
tiot^behold  the  falvAti«n  fifthe  Lord,  If  we  had  the  ftrcngth 
of  our  firft  parents,   and  were  left  to  our  felves,  we 
fhould  come  Chort  of  happincfle  :  this  is  all  our  f  e curity, 
that  it  is  Gods  ftrcngth,  being  trufted  unto  by  faith,  that 
muft  heipe  us  to  falvation  i  Through  God  wee  Jhall  doe  va- 
liantly :  he  is  our  {hicld,  tower,  rocke,  ftrcngth,  and 
glory. 

Faith  is  of  force  tokeepe  us  againftaU  affautsofthe 
Divdl  :  This  is  our  vi(5lory  which  overcommeth  the 
world  :  this  is  fo  mighty,  that  the  powers  of  Hell  e  annot 
prcvailc  againft  it.  Faith  doth  latch  the  fiery  darts  of  the 
Divell,  that  they  fall  off  without  piercing  us :  or  if 
they  enter,  it  doth  quench  and  allay  their  burning  heate, 
that  they  (hall  not  kill  us.  Teter  had  the  dart  ftucke 
in  him  a  while  :  but  faith  did  renew  repentance  ;  and 
healed  him,  making  the  poy Ion  of  fianc  a  Treacle, 
/'^/y^  was  buffeted  with  inward  inggcftions,  and  had 
troubles  as^'  thickc  as  haile-ftoncs  following  him ;  yet  all 
thefc prevailed  not  againft  him,becaufe  he  kept  the  faith. 

The 


yvhen  SAihdri  criccnntns  thefer'vatitsojCkrifi. 


The  DivcU  will  renew  bis  affaultsagainftu*,  and  we 
muft  renew  our  courage  and  ftrergth  agair.ft  him ;  which 
cannot  be  done,  unlefle  we  live  by  faith.  He  that  hath  no 
truft  in  him/clfe,  butlearcth  on  the  power  of  God,  wiil^ 
though  he  fall  often,  ftill  have  hope,  and  be  couragicus  to 
fetupon  his  enemies  withfrcfhaHkilts  after  forae  foylc 
received.  For  he  that  knov  es  he  hath  no  ftrength,  can- 
not wonder,  ifwhenGodlcavethhimhcdofall  :andh: 
that  makcth  Gods  ftrength  his  flay,  though  he  be  never 
fo  farrc  from  a  thing,  yet  will  net  caft  away  hope  in  time 
toobtainc.       ■ 

The  a(3:s  of  faith  in  refpcLl:  of  temptation  be  thefc  or 
fuchlike. 

'  Firf^j  Faith  makes' fcnfiblc,  that  we  cannot  refift  of  our 
icl^s.  By  Sachans  force  the  mighty  Cedars  have  bcenc 
•6vcrthrowne,'  and  wih  more  cafe  we  might  be  overtur- 
ned :  Biit  yet  when  he  rageth  with  greateft  fury,  it  afTu- 
reththac  he  is  chained  up  by  the  power  of  the  Almighty 
God,  and  can  go  no  further,  then  he  will  give  him  leave. 
Weil  may  the  Divell  barke  and  roarc,  like  a  band-dogge 
dv  Lion  fafcly  chained  or  fhut  up,  but  he  cannot  ftirrc 
fiirtherthen  God  is  pleafedto  lethimlofe.  He  cannot 
tempt  whom  he' will,  nor  when  he  will,  nor  how  he 
would,  nor  by  what  meancs,  nor  in  what  meafure  he 
would,  nor  with  whattemptations,nor  for  what  continu- 
ance :  in  all  thefc  he  is  confined  by  the  providence  of  God, 
who  hath  promifed,  that  he  will  not  fufi^cr  us  to  be  temp- 
ted above  that  we  are  able,  but  will  with  the  tcmptarion 
alfo  make  a  way  to  efcapc,  that  we  may  be  able  to  bearc 
it.  A  legion  of  Divels  could  not  enter  into  a  g^ciareue 
Hogge,  till  Chrift  had  given  them  leave.  Sathan  cannot 
touch  one  Bleate  pertaining  to /o^,  till  he  have  obtained 
libcrtic :  nor  then  lay  a  finger  upon  his  body,  till  his  li- 
berty be  renewed.  The  Divell  is  the  (infull  Author  of 
Tcmptations,w hereby  he  feckes  to  moleO:  and  overthrow 
the  Saints:  but  God  in  his  infinite  wifdomcand  mercic 
doth  limit  them,  bothinrefpeft  of  time,  place,  perfon, 

V4  and 


25>5 


Tie  afft  of 
Jailb  in  refpelf 
ofthefetemfta- 
tionf. 


t    -A 


I. 


Matth.4.1,2, 


I  Cor.  I  O.I  5J 


Markc.^.i2. 

Job.i.i2.&  2, 
6. 


f. 


2ptf 


2, 

£  Cor.  Z.I  I. 


Efay.j^.il. 


Matth,4.io. 


Mswt^Uveh.j  F^'th  ijtumifffTem^Wm^  , 


and  temptation  it  fclFc,  and  direcl  them  to  fuch  an  end  as 
Satban  never  intended.  Faith  fpeaketh  on  this  wilCjSathan 
defires  to  ftft  mcas  wheatc,  but  it  is  t-ic  Lord  who  hath 
made  <hoite  of  this  tpniptation,  wh^ewith  lamexerci- 
f^d,  rather  thai  another;,  and  hath  fet  bounds  to  the  fpiri- 
tuallencmiesof  my  foulc,  what  time  they  fiiall  continue 
to  aifailchow  farre  they  {hall  proceed  and  nofurthcr,and 
will  dircifl  the  temptation  to  a  good  end,  above  all  Jean 
conceive  t  tfeercfare  I  will  not  feare  tiie  enerny  but  wai^c 
upon  the  Lord.      :::         •       '   '   -  ^  .     ..  '    . 

Secondly,  It  difcovereth  the  Methods  of  Sathan^and  hi^ 
Ends.in  tempting.  The  Divcls  aimes  arcjiotever  on^  and 
the  fame.  Alwayes  he  labours  the  deftrucftion  of  tha 
Saints  j ;  hue  his  wayes,  whereby  he  ©ndeyours  to  eff?^  \t, 
arc  contraric.  Sornetimcshepurpokth to  cnti^or  unt^/ift 
by  he  allurements ;  fomctimes  to  Viexe3froublc,ar}4iiriye 
into  dcfpairc ;  at  leal  1  to  make  the  life  of  a  Cbriftian  un- 
comfortable with  his  manifold  and  hellifli  aflaults.  This  i& 
wifely  difcerned  by  faith.,  whereby  the  ftfatageras  of  our 
Advcrfiry  are  morq  eafily  diiappointed.For  as  an  enemy/ 
whointcnds  by jpoiicie  to  get  cheyic^pry,  ismorethen 
halfc  overcome  when  bis  plot  is  diiclofed  ;  fo  it  h  here, 
Sathan  is  foonc  difcofnfited,when  his  intents  and  projects 
arc  manifcftcd  and  made  known^.      . 

;:  Thirdly,  Ic  iifteth-up  thc-bcart  to  crie  and  complaine 
uhto  God  of  the  cruelty  and  malice  of  that  Spirituall  Ad- 
verfary  :  but  fuffirs  it  not  to  mufc  upon  his  blafphemous 
temptations  or  tb  conferre  with  them.  If  Rah.^Akeh  re- 
vile the  living  God,  the  people  o^Iudah  will  hold  their 
peace,  and  notanCwcr  biin  a  word,  leaft  being  inraged  he 
fliould  blafplieiTic  the  more.'  Direct: oppofj' ion  in  fuch 
caiesi  fUrrcth  'up  the.  outrao^ious  blafpbemcr  to  grow 
more  furious.  When  the  Div  U  requires  ofour  Saviour 
to  fill  downe  and  wbr{hip  him,  he  reafbns  not  the  cafe, 
butrcpcUcth  hioi  widideteflaHon,  li^foif^  Sathan.  Gi- 
ving us  to  uj^der'/tanid,  that  the  bUfphemo^s  may  not  be 
reafbned  with;  i£!tihcy  fbould,  it  Would  make  them:  but 

'     ■  burft 


when  Saihan  ejumntir^thefirv/mts  (^f.Cky'ffl.       I     ipy 


burft  forth  into  greater  outrage  againft  the  pccrckffc  vvif- 
domc  of  God.  Wherefore  it  Sathan  bufftt  us  with  fug- 
geftions  of  this  nature,  it  is  our  wifdo me  to  turn efr(  in 
him,  and  to  make  our  complaint  unto  tVc  Lord.  So  F  - 
^tkidhi^xezdi  the  blafphemous  Iciici  oi  Senracheril;  be 
fore  the  Lord  :  An^  when  the  enemies  of  D^i'riiinfultcd 
over  him,  as  though  there  had  beene  no  hclpe  for  him  in 
his  God,  he  cricth,  LoyJy  how  Are  mine  enemies  incren- 
M 

Fourthly,  By  faith  the  poore  foule,  eying  the  promife, 
betakes  it  lelfe  unto  the  Lord  for  fuccour  promifed,  to  be 
defended  againfi  the  malice  of  rhar  r marine;  Lion.  It  k  the 
promife  of  our  Saviour,  that  Hell  gate^  fliall  not  prevailc 
againd  his  faithfuil  people  :  they  (hall  fight  againll  them, 
but  not  prevaile.  When  the  fpirit  of  man  begins  to  faint, 
faith  bids  hiui  be  of  good  courage,  for  there  is  helpeiii 
Heaven.  The  Divell  may  thruft  fore  at  thee,  but  fhall  not 
get  the  vi(5l:ory,  for  God  is  with  thee.  If  the  Lord  plunge 
thee  into  the  Sea,  he  will  goc  downe  with  thee  thither  to 
k(Cpc  thee,  that  thou  fiialt  not  be  drowned  ;  although 
Hell  gates  had  (liut  her  mouth  againft  thee,  yei  ther?  hi« 
Almighty  hand  will  be  with  thee,  and  from  thence 
his  arme  will  deliver  thee.  Feare  nor,  for  the  Lord 
will  be  thy  defence,  and  the  ihadow  of  his  wings  thy  ^ 
cover,   :/    .  I  ,\'")X!{f      I 

Fiitly,  It  ftirreth  up  courage  and  rcfolutioh  to  fet  upOfi ' 
the  pradife  of  godlinefle,  and  the  duties  of  our  particular 
calling  with  diiligence  and  cheerefnlneffe,  as  the  meanes 
fan(5lified  of  God  to  procure  freedome.  For  defpaire, 
duripiOinffle,  foregoing  the  meanes  of  grace,  and  neg- 
lect of  our  calling,  thcfc  are  the  things  which  Satban  la- 
bours to  drive  us  mito ;  we  doe  him  tlie  grcateft  plcafurc 
that  may  be,  when  we  yeeld  unto  hitn  therein.  Exceflive 
feare  brings  that  upon  us,  for  whch  elpecially  we  de- 
fire  to  be  freed,  and  ties  up  the  powers  of  the  foule,  that 
it  can  make  norefiftance.  Cowardiie  and  fainting  forroW 
put  courage  ioto  our  Adverfaty  :  valour,.  rcfalution,-^nd 

confi- 


Efay.37.14. 


rfal  J.I. 

4. 


Mat.itf.i8. 


Pfal.51  8,3. 


Era.  50.7,8,9. 


.■^. 


2  5>  8  How  t0  li'vc  bj  F  aith  in  time  of  Temf  tation, 


4. 


Confidence  forceth  him  to  give  backe,  When  we  give 
place  to  doubting,  dejcaednefTe,  inordinate  t)  rannicall 
fcarcs,  we  put  our  fclvcs  into  the  hands  of  our  Enemie : 
but  the  viftory  is  ourr,  when  by  faith  in  the  power  and 
mercy  oFthe  Lord,  we  raife  up  our  hearts  in  courage,  and 
buckle  cur  fclves  to  the  duties  that  lie  before  us,  accor- 
ding to  abilitie  granted  of  God.  When  we  are  idle  and 
folitary,  Sathan  hath  moft  advantage  to  moleft  and  dif- 
quiet,  as  the  thiefe  hath  to  fteale,  when  the  doore  ftands 
wide  open  :  but  confcionable  imploymcnt  fhutteth  the 
doore  againft  him,  and  takes  away  opportunity.  This  is 
the  voice  of  faith,  though  Sathan  furioufly  aflaile  thee,  be 
Motdifmaycd;  when  his  temptations  be  moft  fierce,  be 
thou  moft  diligent  in  the  meanes  of  grace,  the  pradife  of 
holincfTe,  the  labours  of  an  honeft  calling  j  pray  earneft- 
Iy,call  to  remembrance  the  promifes  of  grace.exercifc  thy 
felfc  in  workes  of  Mercy  .Make  this  ufc  of  all  his  malitious 
aflaults,  that  thou  be  quickened  to  ftickc  faftcr  unto  the 
word  of  promife,  lift  up  thy  heart  to  crave  his  aide  with 
confidence,  and  take  courage  to  labour  more  carneftly  in 
the  paths  of  righteoufncffe.  For  Sathan  will  then  ceaie  to 
vexe  with  bis  temptations,  when  that  which  he  puts  as  a 
flumbling  blocke,  wc  makeafpurre  and  incitement  to 
more  diligence  in  wel-doing. 

Sixtly,  It  fortifieth  the  foule  againft  allinvafions :  For 
tfe<^  pcrfwafions  of  faith  are  moft  forcible,  the  ftrength  of 
faith  invincible.Satan  indeavours  by  horribIe,and  fearefull 
injedions  to  drive  the  poore  foule  to  defpaire  :  Faith  ' 
heartneth  him  the  more  to  believe*  and  keepc  clofe  under 
the  fhadow  of  the  Lords  wings.  For  the  Divell  is  let 
loofe,  tochafcusneererhim,  that  we  might ftickefaftcr 
unto  the  Lord,  as  the  child  affrighted  will  cling  unto  the 
mother.  Satan  defires  by  carnall  allurements  and  outward 
ob/efts  to  draw  him  from  God,  which  he  inforceth  with 
all  fubtiltic:  Faith  oppofcth  ftronger  perfwafions  to  wel- 
doing ;  it  fetteth  before  him  the  terrours  of  death  cternall 
ifnc  revolt  J  the  comforts  of  grace,  and  the/oycs  of  Hea- 
- ven, 


' 


when  Sal  ban  mcountcrs  thefervmts  $fchrijh       i     299 


ven,  if  he  continue  conftant;  in  companTon  whereof  all  / 
carnall  inticements  be  of  no  moment.  When  the  Divell 
cannot  pre vaile  by  fiatteriesjhc  feekes  by  force  &  violence 
to  overthrow  the  poorc  fervants  of  Chrift,  Faith  buildcth 
it  felfe  upon  Chrift  the  everlafting  rocke,  refifteth  in  his 
namcand  getteth  the  vidlory.  The  Believer  is  too  wcake 
of  himfelfe  to  withftand  the  leaft  aflaalt,bitt  relying  upon 
the  Lord,  through  his  power  he  is  made  vidorious  in  the 
greatcft. 

Seventhly,  Faith  is  vigilant  and  watchfull  at  all  times, 
in  all  places,  upon  all  occafions,  againft  all  ^\nsy  with  all  de- 
grees thereof,  fpecially  againft  fins  of  conftitution,calling, 
thetime,company,corrupt  education,the  firft  rife  offinnc- 
delighting  motions,  and  fins  of  folitarineffe,  that  it  be  not 
circumvented  by  the  wiles  of  Sathan.  Faith  may  flumber 
and  take  a  nap  for  a  little  leaC:)n,when  it  is  ill  at  eafe  :  but 
the  propertie  of  faith,  when  lively  and  in  good  plight,is  to 
keepe  waking.  For  nothing  is  more  wifely  fearcfull  then 
faith,nor  morccautclous  and  circumfpedl  the»  holy  feare: 
Nothing  more  carefull  and  fufpitious  then  faith,  more 
waking  and  induftrious  then  holy  care  and  fufpition  : 
Nothing  more  covetous  and  couragious  then  faiih,  more 
watchfull  then  covetoufnefTc  and  courage.  Faith  makes 
a  man  /ealoas  of  himfelfc",  left  hee  take  cold,  catch 
a  knockc,  or  be  deceived ;  cautelous  and  circumfpe(5t, 
that  the  Divell  get  not  advantage,  fet  not  upon  him 
at  unawares  ;  defirous  to  keepe  ftanding,  grow  in 
grace,  live  in  peace  with  God  ;  and  valiant  in  the  Name 
of  God  to  take  armes  in  the  caufe  and  quarrell  of 
God  againft  principalities,  powers,  and  fpirituall  wic- 
kcdneffcs.  Feare,  care,  fufpition,  covetoufnefTej  cou- 
rage, any  one  of  thefe  is  fufficient  to  keepe  waking 
in  earthly  things  :  and  when  all  ot  them  joyntly  con- 
curre,  fhall  they  not  have  this  eflFefl  in  fpirituall  ?  Sathan 
h  vigilant  to  tempt,  as  he  can  ef  pie  his  opportunity  :  and 
faith  is  watchfull  to  avoid  the  fnare,  or  wichftand  tho 
affault. 

Eightly, 


I 


•/.. 


100 


Bow  to  live  hy  Fatth  in  time  of  Temfauonj 


Rev  ia.i£. 


Mat.4.iejii. 
Luk.4.15. 


I  Cor.to.13. 


9' 

zCor.ii.8. 


Eightly,  In  the  moft  forcible  tcmpcfts  wbich  the  cnc. 
my  raifcth  againft  \it,  when  to  preicnt  Icnlcand  feeling 
all  fight  and  hope  of  the  grace  and  goodncfle  of  God  in 
Jefus  C  hrift  is  loft,  faith  tels  the  heart,  that  a  calme  is  at 
hand.   When  the  ftrength  of  the  enemy  is  wafted,  and  his 
provifion  decayed,  that  he  h'th  no  hope  to  continue  the 
ficge  long,  he  will  make  one  ortwofiuiousaflaultsa- 
gainft  the  place  before  his  departure,  intending  to  winnc 
the  horfe  or  lofe  the  fpurres,  as  the  proverbe  gocth  :  fo  it 
is  with  Sathan,  his  rage  \$  greateft,  when  his  time  is  flior- 
tcft.  Even  as  the  darknefle  is  greateft  a  little  before  day  : 
fo  the  grand  pieces  which  the  Divell  keepes  in  ftore,imtilI 
the  cafe  be  dcfperate,  be  with  the  claps  they  give,  and 
mifts  ibcy  fend  forth,  mcflengers  of  his  retiring,  and  onr 
deliverance  which  is  before  the  doore.  The  laft  temptati- 
on, wherewith  Sathan  fet  upon  Chrift,  was  the  moft  furi- 
ous, and  when  he  could  not  prevaile  thereby,  he  departed 
from  him  for  a  feafon.  The  Lord  knowes  well  the  malice  | 
of  Sathan,  and  the  wcaknefleof  his  children  :  his  furie  to  ! 
devours,  and  their  frailty  to  ftand  long  in  the  encounter  : 
therefore  he  will  not  fufltcrthat  rOaring  Lion  above  mea- 
fure  to  difchargc  upon  them.  This  faith  affures  of,and  per- 
fwades  quietly  to  waite  for. 

Njntlily,  If  Sathan  renew  his  affaults,  faith  ftands  pre- 
pared through  the  power  of  God  to  make  refiftancea- 
frefli  ?  When  Paul  was  buffeted  by  the  meffenger  of  Sa- 
than,he  befought  the  Lord  often  in  that  thing.  Thus  when 
we  are  led  into  darknefle  without  light,  we  leaneupon 
God,  and  cry  unto  him  for  falvation.  If  a  child  have  his 
father  by  the  hand ,  though  he  be  in  the  darke,  or  other- 
wife  fee,  what  might  hurt  him,  approach,  and  make  often 
at  him,  yet  he  is  not  afraid  :  and  fo  it  is  with  us,  whileft 
by  the  eye  of  faith,  we  fee  that  invifible  me,  at  cur  right 
hand  to  fapport  and  favcus.  Neither  arc  we  feared  at 
this,  that  Sathan  doth  fKift  his  tcnnptations,  and  returnc 
againe  afrer  he  had  left  us  for  a  feafon :  But  having  expe- 
rience of  Gods  gratious  dealing  and  tender  compaflion, 

wc 


rvhert  Saihan  encounters  thefarvants  ofchrifl. 


501 


wc  flic  unto  him,  and  flirowd  our  fclvcs  under  the  fhadc 
of  the  Ahnighty.  If  we  have  in  fome  fits  found  cafe  by 
this  or  that  mcancs,  we  know  if  we  come  into  hke  cafe 
how  to  helpc  our  felves ;  it  is  we  fay,  but  doing  fuch  a 
thing,  or  taking  fuch  a  n^atter  :  thus  having  once  found, 
in  didrcflc  and  tcmptation,ftrcngth  and  deliverance  by  rc- 
courfc  to  our  God  'm  ChriO,  we  know  what  to  doe  when 
fuch  like  ft?!te  returneth  on  us,  Sathan  will  notceafe  to  af- 
faile  though  he  be  overcome ;  nor  the  believer  fdint 
though  he  be  fet  upon  againe  and  againe  :  but  having  once 
returned  with  vidory  through  the  power  of  God, 
he  will  abide  in  the  fecrct  place  of  the  mofl:  High  for 
ever. 

Tenthly,  The  faithfull  are  the  Lords  veffels,  wlichhe 
ufcth  to  icoure  by  temptations.  True  it  is  that  in  the 
time  of  triall,  the  graces  of  the  Spirit  doe  not  fo  much 
appcare  to  the  notice  of  the  believing  heart :  but  by  the 
over-ruling  providence  of  God,  they  fcrve  for  the  lU' 
creafe  of  grace,  as  the  truth  tcacheth,  faith  believeth 
and  experience  can  tcftific.  Thus  faith  miniftreth  comfort 
in  the  moft  bitter  agonies,  if  it  be  rightly  ufed,  andftir- 
Fed  up. 

But  what  if  the  child  of  God  be  brought  fo  low,that  he 
can  difcerne  no  fparke  of  faith,no  fruit  of  grace,no  marke 
of  Gods  love  in  himfelfe  }  It  is  not  to  be  doubted^  but  the 
fervants  of  Chrift  through  their  weaknes,are  oft  brought 
by  extremity  of  temptation  into  wofull  dcfolatioi, which 
yet  the  Lord  doth  wifely  order  for  the  glory  of  his  Name, 
and  the  good  of  his  dejeded  fervants.  And  as  inotVer 
things,fo  in  this,  that  they  cannot  difcerne  any  fruit  of  the 
Spirit,  wherewith  through  the  mercy  of  God,  they  are 
comfortably  replenifhed.  For  the  bluftering  Tempefts 
which  the  enemy  raifeth  againftthem,  caufe  fuch  diftur- 
bance  in  the  foule,  and  fill  the  heart  with  fuch  confufion, 
feare  and  terrour,  that  for  the  prefent  they  are  altogether 
unable  to  judge  of  their  owne  eftate.  For  when  the  Mind 
is  over-clouded  with  the  mifts  of  Temptation,  as  the  eye 

with 


10. 

Wly  the  godly 
fomctimes  tvant 
the  fight   of 
Godi  graces. 


.-^ 


The  RemeJy 
of  thii. 
I. 


302  Horvtolivc  by  Faith  in  time  of  Temf  tationy 

with  the  fifing  of  duft  j  and  the  heart  toffcd  too  and  fro 
wuh  unquictnes,  as  the  waves  of  the  Sea  when  the  winds 
are  boifterousjconfcicnce  by  recoiling  upon  the  foule  can- 
not conceive,or  give  right  notice  ot  its  trueflateand  tern-  j 
per.  Troubled  water  will  nat  give  backe  the  icficdion  of  i 
the  countenance :  nor  an  affiided  Spirit  the  true  difpofiti- 

I  on  of  the  inner  man.    When  the  poore  Chridian  makes 
fcarch  into  himfclfejthe  temptation  firfi;  puts  forth  it  felfe,  \ 
wherewith  the  heart  is  daunted,  and  thereupon  conclu- 
deth,  that  no  grace  doth  lodge  or  abidein  him,  becaufe  at 
firft  fight  it  doth  not  appearc.  Vnto  thcfe  may  be  added, 

I  that  good  men  arc  fometimespettifhly  difpolcd,  tocalt  j 

i  away  all  they  have  as  nothing,becaufe  they  have  not  what  j 
theydc(ire,or  imagine  others  to  enjoy  therein  refembling  | 
little  children,who  for  WdHt  offome  fmall  trifle  that  they 
defire,  or  fome  of  their  fellowes  have,  throw  away  many 
things  much  more  pretious. 

But  not  to  inquire  further  into  the  caafes  of  this  mifta- 
king,  the  remedy  is; 

Fird:,  he  mud  know,  that  as  in  Hcke  perfons  we  fee  it 
commeth  to  p^^fle,  they  thinkc  there  is  no  hope  of  life, 
when  the  Phifician  and  flandcrs  by  fee  certaine  and  un- 
doubted tokens  of  health  :  So  it  is  oftentimes  in  thele  fpi- 
rituall  ficknefles. 

Secondly,  It  is  the  wifdome  of  a  Chridian  in  this  calc 
to  obferve  the  marke  that  Satan  drives  at^which  is  to  hide 
from  his  fight  the  graces  of  the  Spirit  that  he  might  bring 
him  to  diipaire-  This  being  the  Divels  aime,  he  mult 
dirre  up  himfelfe  to  believe,  and  rowlc  his  fculenpon 
Cbrift  for  falvation.  For  when  he  can  fee  no  grace  in  his 
foule,  he  cannot  but  fee  himfelfe  to  be  mifera'ble,  andfo 
called  to  come  unto  Chrift  the  fountaine  of  living  waters, 
that  by  him  he  might  be  rcplenifhed,  in  him  he  might 
finde  refrefliing.  Againe,  taking  courage  to  believe,  he 
difappoints  Sathar,  who  intendeth  not  fo  much  to  draw 
him  into  fecurity,  as  to  force  him  to  caft  away  all  hope  of 

'  mercy. 

Oh, 


vphe^Saihan  encounters  the [ervants  of  Chri(t,        \     505 


Oh,  but  a  Chriftian  is  to  examine  and  try  himfclfe, 
whether  he  be  inriched  with  the  graces  of  the  Spirit, 
or  no  ?  True  it  if,  that  the  examination  oP  our  hearts 
is  a  nf  ceflary  duty,  but  to  be  done  m  due  order,  lo  as  we 
be  ftirred  unto,  not  driven  from  the  pracflifc  of  other  cfu- 
ties  no  lefie  ne  driill :  But  when  the  foule  is  dinempercd 
with  the  alfauks  of  Sath:i';,aiid  unable  to  judge  of  its  own 
fiate,  it  is  unlcaf^nable  to  uiaktr  learch  into  our  hcarts,and 
prepofterous  to  give  place  to  dcubtings,  becaufc  we  can- 
not iiiid  what  we  defirc.  We  have  a  commmdemcnt  to  be- 
lieve, as  well  af^  to  prove  our  felves ;  both  v.  hich  muft  be 
conpled  togc  her,  otherwife  neither  can  be  done  as  they 
ought :  and  it  is  a  plainecale,  that  he  who  findcs  himfeUe 
to  be  poore  and  naked,  is  called  to  com:  unto  ChriO,  that 
he  might  receive  of  his  fulneflc,  be  inriched  with  his 
plencv.  If"  thoii  canft  not  find  in  thy  fclfe  what  thou  fee- 
ken:  after,  come  unto  Jcfus  Chrirt,and  believe  in  him  that 
thou  may  eft  receive  what  thou  feektft,  and  is  to  be  found 
in  him. 

Thirdly,  The  diftreffed  fcule  muft  learne,  that  the  grace 
of  God  worketh  not  alvvaics  alike  in  h  :s  children.  W  hen 
we  walkc  in  th;  fields  in  winter,  we  fee  not  only  no  good 
fru't,  but  not  fo  much  as  a  leafe  on  the  trees,  in  fome  alfo 
the  very  trunke  or  (locke  appeareth  to  be  dead  :  yet  is  the 
fap  hidden  in  the  root,  which  in  due  time  will  fhew  that 
the  tree  was  never  dead.  When  fire  is  raked  up,  there  ap- 
peareth  oftentimes  a  fort  of  cold  dead  aflifs,  when  there 
are  underneath  certainc  fparkes,  of  which  you  may  aftcr^ 
ward  make  a  fire.  Yea,  many  times  the  fruits  of  grace 
may  fhinc  in  the  convcrfation  to  the  eyes  of  other?,  when 
the  power  and  ftirrings  of  grace  inwardly,  being  hindrcd 
with  temptations,  cannot  be  felt. 

Fourthly,  The  long  and  manifold  temptations  of  Sa- 
than,wherewith  he  fcekes  to  throw  Chriftians  b^ad-long 
into  defpaire,  is  to  them  a  teftimony  of  the  inhabitation 
of  the  Spirit  in  their  hearts.  For  the  power  and  (Irength 
whereby  thofc  affaults  are  repelled,  is  it  not  of  God  ?  th: 

un 


5* 


4. 


.-(y. 


^04  Horv  to  live  by  Faith  in  time  ofTemftationy 


Mu. 11.43544 
Lu'i,ll-i4j^5: 
l6. 


>i 


uncleanc  fpiric  miglat  eafily  enter  into  the  houfc  with  fe- 
ven  other  fpirits  woifc  then  himfelfc,  and  dwell  there,  if 
he  found  it  fwept  and  garnifiicd,  that  is,empty  and  defti- 
tiite  of  gr.ce.   The  ftrong  man  armed  m-ght  well  breakc  ! 
into  the  houfe,  if  a  (Ironger  then  he  did  not  keepe  poflef-  ; 
fion.   As  the  children  of  God  are  conquercurs  over  many  , 
tcmptationsjfo  one  onely  temptatior(and  that  of  no  long 
continuance  )  is  able  to  fmke  the  flouteft  among  the  Re- 
probates, whoaremcere  drofic  andrefufe,  intothcbot-! 

I  tomeleflepitofHell.    The  ftrong  aflaults,  whereby  the! 
Divell  labourcth  the  over-throw  of  the  poore  fervant  of 
God,  is  to  him  an  argument  of  ilrength  received,  or  that  j 

I  God  will  (ircngthen  him.  For  if  he  looke  unto  God  in  the 
tentation,  he  calleth  not  forth  his  fervants  to  the  conflid?-, 
untill  they  be  furnifbed,  nor  will  he  let  Sathan  loofc  untill 
he  have  inabled  them  to  make  refiftancc.  He  will  not  lay 
waight  upon  greene  Timber,  nor  crufli  the  tender  young- 
ling with  burdens  unfupportable  :  whom  God  doth  im-  \ 
ploy  in  the  warrc,  either  he  hath,  or  will  make  them  able  j 
for  his  fervice.  If  he  have  an  eye  unto  Sathans  malicc,wby 
doth  he  muQer  all  bis  forces  to  bcfieg^',  if  there  be  no 


ftrength  to  withftand  ? 


The  long 


contiued  furious  t^n- 


Mcanesto-flinel 
up  our  fell  en o\ 
live  by  faith  in 
timeofdreadfuM 
temptatioTL 

I. 


Ezra.^,5. 


tationsof  Sathan  do  make  proofe,  that  ths  heartiswcll 
fortified  againfl:  him. 

The  way  and  meane*  to  ftirrc  up  faith  in  thefe  per- 
plexities and  times  of  grievous  temptations,is : 

Firll,  the  diftreffed  ChriQian  muft  nnfainedly  hum- 
ble his  foule  for  former  ignorance,  vanity  of  Minde, 
difeftecmeof  mercy,  timeroufneflc,difcontent,uiibelicfe, 
mifinterpriting  the  Lords  doings,  foiitary  mufings  on 
the  temptations  of  Sathan/elfe-confidencej  and  fuch  other 
finnes  which  may  feemc  to  fet  open  the  foule  to  the  fierce 
and  dre2dfull  affaults  of  Sathan:and  in  that  acknowledge- 
1  ment  and  humiliation  he  muft  unfold  his  prefent  mifery 
before  the  Lord.  O  my  God,  I  am  afhamed  and  con- 
founded, and  blufhto  lift  up  my  face  to  thee,  my  Godii 
for  my  fins  arc  multiplied  exceedingly,  and  mine  iniqui- 
ties 


when  Satban  encounters  the  feruants  «f  Chrift, 


«.-x- 


ties  arc  rifen  up  againfl  mc.  I  was  conceived  in  linnc,  I 
have  lived  in  vanity :  niy  thoughts  are  loofc,  mine  aftcdi- 
ons  boifterous.  I  have  difcflccmcd  mercy,  regarded  lying 
vanities ;  i^iven  way  to  doubtfull  reafonings,  pcttiflily  ta- 
ken on  wficn  my  carnall  dcfircs  have  bccnc  croflcd ;  di- 
(IruQed  thy  promifesj  difpiited  with  thee  of  thy  judge- 
ments ;  given  way  to  thoughts  of  unbeliefe,  harboured 
unquietneflb  and  difcontent :  and  fo  expofed  my  Ibule  to 
the  mod  violent,  horrible,  and  ficric  tentations  and  af- 
laults  oFSathan.  My  fouIc,which  (hould  be  feafoned  with 
fwcete  meditation  on  thy  goodncfle,  mercie,  and  grace 
manifeded  in  Jcfus  Cbrift,  delighted  in  the  proraifes  of 
mercie,and  raviflied  with  the  joyes  of  Heav€n,is  continu- 
ally peftered  and  affailed  with  the  blacke  and  lielliQi 
thoughts  of  Atheifmc,  dcfpair e,  blafphcmie,  dircontcnt ; 
and  cxtreamcly  tortured  with  fonlc-vexing  fearcs.  O  itiy 
God,  lookc  mercifully  upon  the  mifery  of  a  poore  di- 
ftrcflcd finner.  lam  brought  into  great  darknefle,  and 
can  fee  no  light.  There  is  no  foucdneflc  in  my  flefh, 
nor  refl:  in  my  bones,  nor  quiet  in  my  foulc.  My  heart 
trembleth,  my  ftrength  faileth  me,  my  life  is  fpent  with 
gricfe,  my  fpirit  within  me  is  overwhelmed:  and  prevai- 
ling fcares  fo  tirannize  over  me,  that  I  cannot  fpcake. 
My  Minde  is  full  ofdiforder  and  confiifion,  my  heart  of 
tcrrour :  my  foule  refufeth  comfort.  In  the  day  I  am 
terrified  with  thoughts ,  in  the  night  affrighted  with 
drcames.  I  am  fore  wounded  and  broken,  I  goe  mourning 
and  defolate  all  the  day:  my  moifture  is  like  the  drought 
of  fumraer,  and  in  this  dcepe  difcomforc  the  Tempter 
ceafeth  not  to  fuggcft,  That  there  is  no  hehe  for  rrn  in  my 
God, 

Secondly,  he  mufl:  complainc  of  the  malice  of  the  De- 

I  vill;  and  inftantly  intreate  the  Lord  to  pardon  fmne, 

bridle,  reftraine,  and  tread  Sathan  under  foote.  Whiles 

'  Ideclarcmine  iniquitie,andamforriefor  my  finne,  the 

\  Dev ill  rageth  with  incredible  furie  feeking  to  dcvoure 

and  fwallow  mc  up.  He  fighteth  againft  mc  continually : 

X       night 


305 


pr-ii.  38.8,10. 

Pral.3a.4. 
Pfal.  J.  2. 


3. 


c- 


Ffa.i3J0.4» 


Pfa.5i.i5. 


Rom.i^.zo. 


0(5       I         Herote  [I've  hj  Faith  in  time  ofTcm^tmony         j 

night  and  day  is  my  loulc  vexed  with  temptatio-^s  to  be 
abhorred.  Iflfay,!  will  remember  the  mercies  of  the 
Lord, and  thinke  upon  his  name;    I  will  unloaic  my 
fou  e  into  the  bofome  of  my  heavenly  Father  ,  and  waite 
upon  his  cracc  :  then  he  fuggefteth  impious  thoughts  and 
horrible  olafphemies   to  the  great  annoyance,  mifera 
blediftraclion,  aftonifh-nent  and  vexation  of-  rfiy  poore 
fonle.  Remember  me,0  my  God, according  to  the  multi- 
tude of  thy  tender  compaflions,arid  blot  mine  iniquities 
out  of  thy  remembrance  tor   thy  Names  fake.  There 
is  mercy  with  thee  covering  ftn*ie  :  pardon  the  trcfpaffes 
of  thy  poore  fervant.  and  impute  not  unto  me  thofe  hel- 
lifli  thoughts  fuggeftcd  by  Sathan,  which  through  thy 
grace  I  deteftunfainedly,  under  which  I  dcfire  to  be  fin^ 
cercly  humbled,  and  from  which  I  heartily  bcgge  to  bee 
delivered.  Returne,  O  Lord,caule  the  light  of  thy  coun- 
tewance  to  fliine  upon  mee  ;  refrcdi  m/  parched  foule 
with  the  fence  of  thy  mercy;  difpell  the  mi'is  of  ten- 
tation,  rebuke  Sathan,  and  reftraine  his  malice.  Thou 
arttbe  God  of  peace,  tread  Sarhan.  I  belecch  thee^  under 
my  feete  fhortly,  thit  with  a  quiet  and  cheerefull  Spirit 
I  may  hng  ofthy  praife,  and  ferve  thee  in  holincffe  and 
righteoulnes  all  thedayes  of  my  life.  Thou  art  my  ftrength  I 
and  portion,  my  rocke  and  tower  of  defence,  unto  thee  I 
doe  I  fl;c  for  fuccour,  Ob,  plead  my  caufe,  againfl:  the  ene- 
my of  my  fou'C  and  thy  glory.  I  am  purpofed  through 
thygra^etoftickeand  ckave  fad  unto  thy  mercy,  never 
to  affent  unto  or  approve  his  horrible  fu:?geftions:  Oh 
keepems  that  the  evill  one  may  never  touch  me.  Lord 
hire    long   rpiit  thoft  looke  on  ?  refcue  my  foule  from  the 
ficrie aflaults  of  that  wicked  one;  my  d^rliMg  from  the 
Lyoyj.  I  am  fore  troubled,  I  am  bowed  downe  greatly, 
I  walke  in  heavinefle  all  the  day  long  :  My  heart  panteth. 


pia.3v.17. 

Pfa  ii.iij22. 
Pfa.31.10. 


my  foule  is  exceedingly  difqiiieted  with  tentations.  77?^ 
thonhf.fl  feene  (O  Lord)  kfe^e  not  jilence :  O  Lord  bee 
not farre from  mee.  Stirre  Hp  thy  felfe,  and  awake  to  my 
judgement y  curbe  and  chainc  up  Sathan,  that  he  may  rao- 

left 


rvhen  Sat  ban  enccvnters  the  feri'dfits  ef  Chr'ifl.  507 

left  ro  longer,  and  flrengthen  thy  poorc  fctvant,  that 

through  thy  might,  I  may  con^juer  and  triumph  over  him. 

AyidmyfoHle p-a&rejoyce  in  the  Lord,  it  JbaU  rejojce  in  kis 

falvxiion,  Ailmj  bones  (hall  faj^  Lord,  rvbo  is  Uke  unto    Pfal.jj.s,  jo. 

thee,iivhich  deliverefi  the foere from  him  that  ts  too  jlrong 

for  him ^  jea  the  foere  and  needie,from  him  that  jfoykth 

him. 

Thirdly,  he  muft  ceafc  to  Tnufc  on  the  tentations  of 
Sathan,  and  ftirre  up  him(elfe  ,  couragioufly,  valiantly  to 
truft  in  the  mercies  of  the  Lord,  and  rcHe  upon  his  grace.    Pral.43  y. 
fVhj  art  thou  cafi  downe^  O  nty  futile  ?  and  rvhj  art  thou 
difquiitedvpithinmee  ?  why  doft  thou  harbour  perplex- 
ing doubtfull  thoughts,  and  in  much  penGvencfle  to(Te 
to  and  fro  the  tentations  ok  Sathan  ?  This  mufing  kind'es  j  pfal.^p.j. 
theHre:  the  mo»-e  thou  thinkcfl:  upon  the  centation,  and 
artdifquieted  with  doubtings,  the  greater  liberty  hath 
the  Devill  to  tempt,  the  leflc  able  art  thou  to  witMand 
his  malice.  Ifthoube  de/c(5led,  he  will  be  infolent:  if 
thou  be  affrighted,  he  will  be  the  more  furious.  Truft 
therefore  in  the  Lord  ,  and  waite  upon  his  grace  :  for  he 
hath  feenc  thine  adverfity,  he  will  heare  thy  prayers ;  the 
finncs  cleaving  to  the  tentations, which  thou  fo  much  fea- 
rcft,  are  pardoned  and  forgiven  unto  thee.  Evill  'houghts 
conceived  with  delight,  pleafure,  and  purpofc,  are  moft 
difplcafing  unto  God,  dangerous  unto  the  foule  :  but  e- 
vcn  hclliili  tentations,  which  never  found  cor.fent  or  ap- 
probation, under  which  thou  art  humbled,  from  which 
thou  earneftly  craved  to  be  delivered,  doubt  not,  but 
upon  thine  unfained  fuite,  they  are  freely  remitted  and 
done  away.  Beftrong,andof  good  courage,  feare  not, 
nor  be  difmaied  :  for  the  Lord  will  be  thy  defence,  and 
under  the  fhadow  of  his  wings  thou  (hale  be  fafe.  Sathan 
cannot  tempt  longer  then  God  (liall  give  him  leave  :  and 
hewillneverfuffer  thee  to  be  tempted  above  raeafure,  I 
but  will  give  a  good  iffue  unto  the  tentation.  Thou  art    '    °^  ^^'^* 
called  to  fight  under  the  banner  of  Chrift  Jefus  and  in  \  pQj  g^  ,  ^ 
the  name  of  the  Lord  thou  flialt  be  inablcd  to  doc  va- ' 
X  2  liantly 


i- 


-  ^\ 


308 


I  Gor.  IX.9. 


*  C0V.1.9. 


Epbcf.6.io, 


Pfal.ji.X4- 
&»7.i4.. 
Pfil.  34  i2» 
4. 


\  _. 


Uantly  and  overcome.  If  Satban  continue  his  aflaultSj^o^-f 
grace  is [ttfjicientfsr  thee.  iFchy  ftrcngthbc  cleanc  gone> 
Gods  power  fhall  b^  magnified  tlic  more  in  thcc  :  and  be 
hath. brought  thcc  low,  chat  thou  miift  not  truft  in  thy 
fcUe,  but  in  the  living  Lord ,  and  that  the  whole  praifc 
of  the  vidory  might  be  afcribed  unto  him.  If.  thy 
ftrengthdidrcmaine,it  was  not  to  be  leaned  unto;  and 
now  it  is  decayed  and  gone,  there  is  no  c»u-Cc  of-  fcare :  for 
the  Lord  will  be  thy  (lay .    In  the  moft  diiiicult  aflaults 
and  tedious  encounters  we  are  exhorted ,  to  be  flrong  in 
the  Lord,  andinthepwer  of  hi^  might.  Be  of  good  cou- 
rage, and  God  will  grant  thee  an  eafie,  a  joyfuU  victory. 
Sathans  drift  in  tempting  is  to  turmoile,  dif-hearten,  per- 
plex with  feares,  and  drive  into  defpaire  :  and  if  thou 
take  heart  and- courage  to  rcu:  qaietly  upon  Gods  grace, 
and  flie  unto  his  Name,  thou  iliait  put  him  to  flight,  thou 
haftalrcadygottheday.  Waite  but  a  while,  aTid  thefc 
darkemifts,  and  terrible  ftormes  fliall  be  difperfed.  By 
thefe  temptations  the  Lord  hath  taughjt  thee  to  fee  thy 
weaknefle,  and  tine,  malice:  ofSathan;  to  dienic  thine  ownc 
wifdorae,  and  prize  his  favour :  lightly  to  cfteeme  all 
things  here  below,  and  highly  to  value  mercy  reaching 
to  the  pardon  offinne,  and  heavenly  communion  and  fel- 
lowfliip  with  God  :   And  if  this  bitter  potion  hath 
I  wrought  fo.kindly  for  thy  fpirituail  good,  why  iliouldfl: 
thoubedifmayed?  Truft  in  the  Lord,  be  of  good  cou- 
rage, and  he  fhall  ftrengthen  thee.  The  Lord  redeemeth  the 
fahle  ofhisfervantSy  andnoneofthem  thst  truji  in  him  /hall 
be  defoUte, 

Fourthly,  He  muft  excrcife  himfeifc  in  iv'el-doing,har- 
bourholy-and  heavenly  meditations,  nouri{h  the  moti- 
ons of  Gods  Spirit,  be  zealous  and  diligent  in  Prayer, 
reading,  and  hearing  the  Word  of  God,  cheareflill  and 
j  induflrious  in  the  workes  ofhishonert  callingw  For  idle- 
I  nefie,  and  dejc<!T:ed  lumpillincirejand  cxcedive  fcare  prc- 
i  pare  for  aU  temptations :  but  ferious  and;  good  imploy- 
ment  is  afpeciallmeanes  to  prevent  or  divert  them.  In 
i  this 


Kvhm  Sathanemo'mtersthefervants  u/  CitYtfi'^^ 


this  cafe,  conftant  proceeding  in  a  courfe  of  godlinefTc, 
and  cpntinuall  exercifd  of  Mitidcand  Bod)r,  in  thac  which 
ij  good,  and  plcafiog  in  tho  fight  o£Gocl>ck)thnHichn1ore 
availc  then  dif  eel:  gpp6fition.  I  have  too  long  vexed  and 
turmoiled  my  feUc  with  the  temptations  of  Sathan ;  bro- 
ken off  the  exercifc  of  godlincffe,direftly  to  anfwer  and 
oppofe  ihein,  ycelded  to  thoughts  of  unbeliefe;  given 
way  todifcouragements,  as  if  it  had  beene  in  vaine  to 
pray,  omitted  the  duty  upon  conceit  of  unfitnefic^dul* 
ncflc,  unworthinefle ;  accounted  the  duties  of  my  calling 
tedious  and  burthenfome;  fet  open  my  heart  to  intangling 
fcruples  and  diftrading  feares,  queftionin^  the  love  of 
God.  tp  wards  me  upon  every  faiic  luggcftionand  conclti- 
dingofc'through.uijbcliefe,  that  God  had  fiiutiip  his-  Id-' 
vi]ig kindjjefie  for  ever  m  difpleaiure.  So-foolilh-  have;  r 
beene,  and  ignorant :  even  in  this  point  a  beaft.  Pardon, 
O  Lord,  the  infidelity,  doubting,  dcje(5tedne11'e,'afid<ar-' 
nallexcefllvefearaffofthy  poorc  fsrvantjdchvcr  my  fcule 
from  the  fhares  (t>f  Sathan;  acqUaintme  with  his  Mdbb^d^ 
i^i  tempting,  and  hoW  Imay  prfevsnr himiBttdf 'ftt^gthe^i 
me 'in  the  combate,  that  I  nevec  faint,  nor  brcakc  ^  Hid 
courfe  of  godlinefie  through  unbeliefe.  I  am  purpofed 
through  thy  grace,  to  caft  my  foulc  upon  thy  tender  mer- 
cies, to  ieekc  thy  face  continually,  to  waitc  upon"  thee  in 
tiiine  Qrdinances,and  to  eicrcifc  my  felfcinthc  workfcs  of 
Pic.ty,  Mercy,  and  an  honeH  calling.  Ji 'Sathan 'tempt  to 
di(lruft,raifc  fearesXeeke  todifcourage  my  fcule,orbrcake 
offmy  prayers  by  his  hellifli  fuggeftions ;  Iwillftrivc  to 
qaaintaine  !my  faith,  lay  fafter  hold  upon  the  promifcs  of 
iiiercy, ftop  mine earesi  agdinfk  fcruples  and  doubtings'; 
taj^cgreater^ouvagetol draw  ni^  unto  God,  believe  tf^s; 
acceptance  of  my  willing  though  wcake  fervicc  j  and  by' 
Jiow  tnuch  the  Divell  (ball  feeke  to  oppofe  or  hinder  my 
50mfort,courag?,orconftancy,  io  much  the  more  will 
Xftifreup  my  fclfe  to  goefpfwardand  xtontirtue  th^em. 
jTbc  Lprd-will  hc^reaijghor  groane,  torlfe  up  a  ftari, 
,and  gratioufiy  accop^  pootc  Sc  meanc  krvioe  firoiii  a  ficlcc 
: X  3  child^. 


3^P- 


C- 


310 


Uiw  t9  live  bj  Faith  (ft  time  pf  Tcmptatioff,  (jrc. 


pfal.17. »}« 


Pfal.jS.xi. 


Pfal.  17. 


Veife  1 1 . 


Pfal.  1 7.  r. 


Pfal.4l.ji,ii 


childc.  I  perceive  the  mainc  fcopc  of  Sathan,in  fuggcfting 
hcllifli  temptations,  is  to  drive  me  into  dcfpairc,  dilquiet 
the  foulc  with  fearcs,  caft  mc  into  decpc,  unprofitable 
forrow,  and  difcourage  in  every  holy  duty,  that  I  mi^l:t 
altogether  ncgled:  it,  or  with  great  heartlcfncflc  go  about 
it,as  if  it  were  unprofitable,  (Tiould  never  be  accepted.  And 
I  (hall  then  prevent  Sathan,  and  put  him  to  flight,  when  I 
takeoccafion  by  bis  temptations  toftckeclofcr  unto  the 
word  of  promifc,  ftirre  up  my  felfe  zealoufly  to  Iccke  the 
f avour  ot'God ;  turne  my  thoughts  from  dilputing  about 
his  fuggeftions,  pray  that  I  maybe  fitted  to  pray,  waitc 
upon  God  for  hclpc,begge  the  pardon  of  daily  infirmi- 
ties, and  take  heart  and  refolution  to  commit  my  foulc  un- 
to him  in  wcl-doing,ftriving  daily  to  rcformc  what  is  a-- 
miflc,  and  grow  in  grace  j  but  not  qucftioning  acceptance 
bccaufe  of  my  infirmities,  prefcrt  dulncflc,  and  diftemper 
oi  foule,  being  wafted  and  fpent,  whiles  I  ftruggled  with 
the  temptations  of  the  Divcll.  Arifc,  O  Lord,  dilappoint 
Sathan,cafi  himdowne.-delivcr  my  foule  from  the  wicked 
one:  JBc  thou  my  (Ircngth  in  trouble  j  endinc  thine  care 
unto  iny  prayer,  and  fave  mc,  for  I  ftie  unto  thee  for  fUc- 

Icpur.  I  am  ready  to  hak,  and  my  forrow  is  continually 
before  me.  Forfake  mec  rtot^  0  Lord,  0  wj  God^  bee  not 
farre  from  me.  Hide  not  thj  face  farre  fr^m   mee ,  put 
not  thy  fervant  away  in  an^ir.:  thou  hafi  beene  my  helpe  ; 
leave  me  not^  neither  forfakf  me,  O  Qed  of  my  falvation' 
Teath  me  thy  veay ,   0  LorJ^  and  U ah  me  in  a  plaint  path^ 
becanfe  ef  mine  enemies.    Shew  me  the  path  of  life,  guide 
mc  in  the  wayes  of  peace,  give  thy  ftrength  unto  thy 
iervant ,  and  fave  mc  for   thy  mercy  fake.   HoW  up 
my  goings  in  thy  paths^that  I   bee   not    turned   afidc 
by  the  inahce  or  fleights  of  Sathan.  I  am  fiilly  refol- 
vcd  to  depend  upon  thy  grace ,  and   keepe   thy  Com- 
mandcments,  Lord  have  mercy  upon  mc,raife  me  up,and 
ftrcngtheji  me  unto  the  end.  5;  thtj  J  l^ow  that  thoufavvu- 
^eftifte^becAufemme  enemy  d«th  not  trtumph  <?t/f  r  jwc.Vphold 
li^ii^minc integrity,and fet  mc  before  thy  face  for  ever- 
.     ;  And 


How  to  live  byfdnh  in  ttjnes  of  i  roubles  y  ^c. 


And  here,  if  the  diftrcflcd  Chriftian  have  wafted  his 
fpirits  w  ith  violent  and  continuall  forrow,  he  muft  be 
admonKhcd  not  to  thinke,  that  prcfently  he  fhould  reco- 
ver former  liveh'neflc  and  ability.  Saihan  will  not  ceafe 
to  fuggcft ,  that  this  courfe  he  hath  now  fct  upon  is 
vaincandfruitleiTe,  becaufc  he  finds  more  d'ulnefie  and 
loggillincfle,  then  formerly.  But  he  muft  tell  himfclFc, 
that  naturall  powers,  once  weakened,  are  not  foonc  re- 
paired; and  in  fuch  cafe,  when  ftirrings  be  lefle,  the 
workc  of  grace  may  be  more  found  then  heretofore. 
Livelineflc  and  adivencfl'e  is  grcatcft  in  youth,  but  the 
truth  of  grace  greater  in  age.  Therefore  he  muft  not 
fcrupaloufly  queftion  his  ftatc,  bccaufe  he  fceles  himfclfc 
more  feeble,  and  leffe  aftive  then  in  former  times. 


CHAP.  VII. 

HoKV  to  live  byfAlth  tn  the  times  of  trouble  and  ad" 
.    verjity , fpeciaky  when  we  be  exercifed 
"with  tifAHj  and  long  of- 
fiiSlions 

AFflidtions  arc  not  more  ordinary,  then  bordenfomc 
and  heavy  to  be  borne.  U\'fAnj  are  the  tronbles  of 
the  righteous,  and  manifold  the  infirmities  of  the  righte- 
ous in  their  troubles.  Sometimes  they  t.'kc  carnall  coun- 
fell ;  fometimes  they  fret  and  murmur ;  fomctimes  they 
faintanddefpaircforafit.  Davidizxd  in  his  heart,  Ijhali 
now  perijh  one  day  by  the  hand  of  Saul:  there  it  nothing  better 
for  me,  then  that  I ptould fpeedily  efcape  into  the  land  of  the 
Philiftines.  I  f aid  in  my  hafie,  I  am  cut  of  from  before 
thine  eyes,  I  remembredGodandrfos  troubled  x  T  complai- 
ned, and  my  jpirit  waj  over-tvhelmed.  fVitt  the  Lord  caft 
off  for  ever  ?  andreillhee  be  favourable  no  mne  ?  Is  hkf  mer- 
cy cleane  gone  for  ever  :  doth  his  promife  faile  for  evermore  ?  | 
X4  '  which 


311 


Pfal.54.19. 


iSam.i/.i, 


Pfal.ji.za. 

Pril.77.3. 
Vcrfc  7. 
Verfc  t. 


need  to  be  hol- 
pea  aiainji  iif' 
courazernents 
in  apitioH. 


Um  toUnje.by  Fmh  in  time,  of  Ad^erfity, 


God  correUelh 
in  great  wif- 
\  done. 
H;b  1 1.9,10- 


Mexfure. 


3p.11. 


For.  a  moment. 
1'fal.jo.j. 

Pral.103.  9. 
lef.j.  12. 

Hray54  7A' 


Whichfrailty  ofthe  Saints  dothleflbnus,  what  nccde  we 
Mftot)?ai;«ngtheBe.d.3gainft  all  difcouragcments  and 
-Imaepanccs  wl^ich  in  ai^idions,  wcj  fliail  mccte  witball, 
^tjbat  we  neither  grow  weary ,  nor  be  turned  afide  in  oar 
;  Chnftian  cqurfe.And  the  iord,our  moft  mcrcifuU  and  lo- 
ving Father,  knowing  it  to  be  moft.ncceflary,  hath  for  the 
^cqmtort,apd  enc^wragertient  of  his  children  plcntifhlly 
.Iigrafaq^,  ^,>at,he  ,w.iU  corrcd .thejn  in  wi/domc    love 
,,aBd.tcnfiercompa0ion,totric,purge,..and  re/in^  them  • 
and  gracipullypromifed  to  aide,  comfort,  anddiredl,  and 
,mhttcft.time  to  deliver  them.ouc  of  adverlities.  W£  have 
MdFaUo^rj  ofot4rfiejh,  r^hocetreaedw,  and  we  P^vethcm 
'J'^^H^^^i'-Mlmm  muph  fatheK'.hs^wrft^femon'unto 
ff'^^^ff'-^ffpritf,  and  live?  For  they  venH  fer  a  fer^ 
dayeschAftenedw  after  their  owneplearf4re,  bm  ke  fer  our 
profit,  th^t  wc  wight  be  partakers  of  his  holineffe.    Hath  he 
fmuten  htm,  04  hefmote  thoje  that  fmote  him  ?  Or  is  keflaine 
'^(^cordtri^totheflaHaketfofthem'Ahatareflairiehy  him  ^  In 
tneaJurewhenitJhootethforth,thouwilt  debate  iiih  tt  •  he 
ftpi^thi^  rough  v^ind^iti  the  day  of  the  Ea§l  wi-^S.  Feare 
thoHnot,  O  Jz<ioh,n2yferv.ant ,  faith  the  LorAjcr  I  am 
r^tththee,forImll^akeaf^ll  end  of  .all  Natiom  whither 
I  have  driven  thee,  bnt  I^}^m  make  af.tl  end  of  thee    bnt 
corrcU  thee  in  meafure.jct  will  T not  leave  the  wholly  »«- 
3^^ryZ^^:,Tl^S;;is..t.hac  which -tjie  Prophet  io  earneftlv 
-..begged  of  God,  O  LordcorreUj^e,  b.m  r.hh  iudor^Jt, 
■^ot  tn  thme  avger,,  Icfi  thoabriyig  me  to  xotii^a.  He  corrcdls 
but  for,a  while;:  Far ^^',^«|.r.W«r./4.^.^r.r;«^;«.;,,,;;,  hi^ 
f^voi^ruhfe:   weepin^may.en^^refor  a  ni^ht, hm toy  com- 
zmrt^m  the- morning.  He  r^tti  not  alw^yes  chide  neither  will 
heekeepeh^saffger  for  ever.  The  rod  of  the  wicked  fh  all  not 
ten  upon  the  lot  of  the  righteous  :  lefl  the  rioht.cm  put  forth 
tt^^tr  hands  unto  intquity.  For  yet  ^  Very  %tle  while,  and 
the  tndugn^tian  (hall  C^4fc,.4v4.  ^ine  ^nah  in  thir  de- 
jirHElion.  F4>r  ^Jr?,aU  mommt  have  I  for  fa  hn  thee   but 
.i^nh  great  mercies  will  f  gat  her  thee.   In  a  little  wrath  I 
htdmjfAceframthee.for  a  moment:  hm  ^itheverlafiing 

kindneffe 


whin  we  k  exercifed  with  mofty  ^  long  nffli ciions .  ^  i  ^ 


^  Tcndcruejje. 
El  ay  6^.  5,. 
PCA  105,1  j. 


Vcifc  14. 

H  jllaii.8,9. 


k,iftd»e^ewHi  I  have  mercy  on  thee  ^  f*ii^h  the  Lord ^  thy'l 
Redeemer.  For   I  rrt/l  not  contend  for  ever ,  neUher  rvht,  ^^^y  J7.16. 
I  be  alwajes  wroth  ;f(>r  the  fp  rit  Jhould  faile  before  ine  } 
and  the  foules  which  I  have  made,  Whc  is  a  Cjod  like  Mn~\  ^  ,         ^ 
to  thee^that  fardoneth  iniejuity,  and  pafeth  by  the  tranf-\ 
g^(Jp.oH  of  the  remnant  of  his  heritage  ?  He  retai»eth  rtof  ' 
his  Avger  far  ever^becaufe  he  delighte: h  iit  mercy,   «  Whom  ' »  inltvcan'l 
the  Lordiovethjh(ecorrePi<th,tvenat  a  Father  the  S<^nftf,  i Tro  |.i.. 
inwkomhedelighteth.     AsmAry  as  I  love ^  I  rebuke  and i  Hcb.12  5,5. 
chafieii,   b  /«  all  their  amnion  he  rv.u  affiled,  and  the  An^  \  R^^c'-?. » o- 
iellofhisfrefmcefavedthein  :   in  hts  love  and  in  his  pirie 
he  redcftned  them,   and  he  bare  them,  and  carried  than 
all  the  Jay es  cfolJ,  Like  as  a  Father  pitieth  his  children' :/b 
J  the  Lord pitieth  them  that  feare  him.  For  hee  knoweih  omy 
frame  :  hce  rcmemlfreth  that  ree  are  dujl.  How  (hall  I  five 
/^f<f  »/>  Ephraim  ?  Hm^Piall  I  d  liver  thee  llracl  ?  How 
fhaU  I  make  thee  as  Admah  ?  HowJhAlt  I fet  tlaee  as  Zcbo- 
im  ?  iJ^Iint  heart  is  turned  within  me^  my  reptntiynts  are 
ki»dledtcgtther.  I  will  not  execnte  the  fiercrneff^e  of  mine  an- 
ger, J  wik  nn  returne  to  df^roy  Ephraim./ir  I  am  (Jod  and 
not  i^iany  the  holy  one  in  the  midjl  of  thee.  ^  That*  /halt  re- 
fftcrnher  all  the  way,  which  the  Le^d  thy  God  led  thee  thefe 
forty  y cares  in  the  wildernt^es  to  humble  thee,  and  to  ^roi^e 
thec^  to  k^9W  what  was  in  thiwheart.  For  thou  O  G(^-,  -l^afi 
fro7iedsui  thou  hafl  tried tss  as fllver  is  tried,   And  I  wtS 
turrjezoy  hand  upon  thee,  and  purely  puree  aw  y  thy  drojfe, 
and  take  airay  all  thy  tinne.  "By  this  therefore  ilaH  the  tni- 
cjHity  of  '^zcch  be  purged,  and  this  is  all  the  fruit,  t»  take 
away  his  Jinae.   And  feme  of  them   of  under flardtr^g  pt all 
fall, to  trie themandto purge, andtomakethemwhite.  Aid 
I  will  bring  the  third  part  through  the  fire,  and  will  refine 
them  as  filver  is  refitted,  and  will  try  them  as  gold  is  tryed: 
.4tt:l  they  fhall  call  on  my  "^^^jtwe,  an  1 1  wiU  he  are  them.  -  Now 
for  a  feafon{ifneeeie  be  )ye  are  in  hraviii^ffe  through  manifold 
temptations  ;  That  the  triaS  of  your  fatih,  beiner  m«cJ>  more 
pretioM  then  gold  th*t  perifijeth, though  it  be  triedwi^h  fre, 
might  be  found  H»iopraife,an/i  h.ofteur^f^  glory  ^at  the  appea 
rinj^ 


*  To  prove 

Purge 

Buy  i.i5,& 
4  4' 


Ef:.y  17.". 
Dm  1 1 .3  J, 8c 


iP^C 


1.^,,. 


\ 


3^4 


I  Pet.  4. 1 2. 

Job.?}.i6,i7, 
18. 

J  'b.j6. 10,16. 

*Confirme^race 
Dcut.8.  t6. 


Rom.5.j,4,  ?• 

Job.  1^3. 

b  Save, 

I  Cor.il.Ji. 

2,Ccr.4. 17. 

*HeriDiU  deli- 
ver f'ooH 
Job  f.17,18. 
•»/  9f  trouble. 

PfaI.94ia,iJ. 


James  i.  ij. 
dl!  tender  over 
them  in  trouble. 
lHal.s6.  8. 
Flal.31.7. 

pnil,}j.i8ji». 


novo  to  live  hj  Faith  in  time  of\_^dverfitie, 

ring  ofleffH  Chrifi,  Thinke  it  not  Jl  range  concerning  the  fie- 
ry triatly  vthicb  it  to  try  jeu^  oi  though  fame  Jf range  thing 
happened  ftntoy Of*,  He  opentth  the  eares  ofnten^  andfealeth 
their  in firuB ion jThat  he  may  withdraw  man  fr»m  his  pur. 
p9fe^ anAhide pri)e  from  man.  He  keepeth  hacl^  hU  foule 
from  the  pit ,  andhU  life  from  periPoing  by  the  ftvord.    He 
openeth  aifo  their  e are  to  iiifcipltnr^andcommanJeth  that  they 
returnefrem  ini<jstity.  »  pvho  led  thee  through  that  great 
And  terrible  wilderne^e^^C.that  he  might  prove  thee  J  to  doe 
thee  good  at  thy  latter  end.  LAly  brethren  ^  count  it  all  joy 
whenyee  fall  into  divers  temptations  ^  knowing  this,  thai  the 
trying  of  your  faith  worketh  patience,  fVe  glory  in   tribulati' 
ons  alfoj  knowing  that  tribulation  wort^ethpatiencCy  and  pa- 
tience experience  ;  and  experience  hope ;  and  hope  makfth  not 
afhamed.  Every  branch  that  beareth  fruit,  he  purgeth  it, 
that  it  may  bring  forth  more  fruit.  ^  fVhen  we  are  judge^^ 
wearechafienedofthe  Lord,tbatwe  Jhould  not  be  cendem- 
uedwith  the    world.   For   our   lifht   afliSIioH ,  which  u 
but  for  a  moment,  work^thfor  tts  afarre  more  exceeding  and 
cternallwaight  of  glory,  c  'Behold^  happy  is  the  man  whom 
Godcorreficth  :  therefore  defpife  not  thou  the  chafieniug  of 
the  Almighty.  For  hee  maketh  fore,  and  bindeth  up  :  hee 
woundetb,  and  his  hand  maketh  whole.  He  Jhall  deliver 
thee  infix  troubles, yea ,  in  feven  there  [hall  no  eviS  touch 
thee,  Blejfedis  the  man  whom  thou  chafienethy  O  Lord ;  and 
t^achefl  out  of  thy  LawiThat  thou  may  eft  give  htm  reft  from 
the  dajes  ofadverfity  :  untill  the  pit  be  digged  for  the  wicke  ■. 
B lefed  is  the  manthat  endureth  ttmptation :  for  when  he  is 
triedy  he  /ball  receive  the  crowne  of  life  ^  which  the  Lord  hath 
promifedto  them  that  love  him.^  Thou  tellefi  my  wandrings, 
put  thou  my  teares  in  thy  bottle :  are  they  not  in  thy  booke  i 
I  will  be  glad,  andre Joyce  in  thy  mercy  :for  thou  ha/l  conjide- 
redmy  trouble ;  thou  hafl  knovfne  my  foule  in  adverfttie  toe- 
hold, the  eye  of  the  Lord  is  upon  them  that  feare  him  :  upon 
them  that  hope  in  hit  mercy:  To  deliver  their  foule  from 
deathy  audto  ktepe  them  alive  in  famine.  The  righteous  cry^ 
and  the  Lvrdheareth  them t  anddelivereth  them  out  of  ak 

their 


when  we  be  exerctfed  withmanj  ^  long  affli^ions. 


315 


Frai.34  17,18 


Vcru  j8 


Vcrfe 


I^ 


theirironkles:  The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  them  that  are  of  a 
broken  heart :  andfavethfnch  xs  be  of  a  contrite  Jpir  it :  The 
L$rd  alfo  nfiU  be  a  refugf^  ^or  the  oppre^ed :  4  refuae  in  times 
of  trouble.  The  neeiy  flic.il  not  alvrajes  be  forgotten  :  the  ex- 
pe Elation  ef  the  poorefljaH  not  perifi)  for  ever,  God  u  our  re- 
fkoe  and  flremnh  ^  a  very  prefent  helpe  in  trouble,  ^".'^1.46  i. 
r         .1  ^r        T  -li  \l  l  .    J'/  '  an./ prefcfit  er    1 

rearethou  net  y  Jor    I   urn  with   thee",   bee    not   ^V^^^Jf- \  their  ^Ub  I 

ed^  for  I  am  thj  God :  I  vcill  firengthen  thee ,  yea  I  vfill '  }^Cay  ^  i,\o  \\  ' 
he/pe  thee  ;  yea,  I  ni/l  uphold  thee  with  the  right  hand  ,12. 
ofmyri^hteeufnef[e.  Biholdya/l  they  that  were  incenfeA  a- 
gainB  thce,/hall  be  afhamt  d  and  confounded :  they  fijaCbe  ai 
nothing,  and  they  that  flrive  reith  thee  flrall per ip}.Ve are  nst, 
thou  rvorme  j7icoh,<tndyeemen  c/lfraell :  ItviH  helpe  thee, 
faith  the  Lord y<tnd thy  Redeemer,theh»lj  One  of1{^TdiC\\.Si>tg 
O  Heaven,  andbejoyfull,  O  Earth,  and  breaks  forth  into 
finging^O  Aiountaines  :  for  Godhath  comforted  hts  people, 
and  win  harje  mercy  upon  hU  afjllEled,  But  Z'lon  faid.  The 
Lord  hath  forfaken  me, and  my  Cjodhath  forgotten  me.  Can  a 
yvom  an  forget  her  fucking  babe, that  JheJhouU  not  have  com' 
pafjion  on  thefonne  of  her  wombe  ?  yea,  they  may  forfet,  yet 
will  not  J  for  fet  thee.  Behold  J  have  graven  thee  upon  the 
palmes  of  my  hands,  thy  walls  are  continually  before  me.  Be- 
caufe  he  hathfet  hU  love  upon  me.thcrfore  vriU  I  deliver  him: 
Iwillfet  him  on  high^be caufe  he  hath  k»ownemy  T^me.He 
9faHcaU  upon  me^nd  I  will  anfrver  him  :  I  will  be  with  him 
in  trouble,  I  will  deliver  him,  and  honour  him.  In  thefc  and 
foch  like  pafTigcs  of  holy  Scripture,  vvcc  fee  with  what 
love  and  tcndcrncfTe  the  Lord  doth  corrcdl  his  children, 
for  the  glory  of  his  great  Namc,and  their  exceeding  great 
benefit;  that  they  might  know  thcmfelvcs,  their  frail- 
ties and  graces ;  be  purged  from  their  drofTc,  emptied 
of  felfe-conceitcdncirc ;  confirmed  in  hope,  patience,  hu- 
mility; quickened  unto  prayer,  and  fitted  tor  his  king- 
dome  ;  how  gratioufly  he  doth  proteA  and  comfort  them 
in  hcavine(Tc,ligbtcn  theirdarkcnclfcjhcalc  their  wounds, 
kecpc  their  feete  from  falling ,  cover  them  with  his 
fcathcrsjhidethcmin  his  pavilion,  and  fet  them  up  on 

hich 


/ 


Pfal.9i.i4,;f. 


^i6 


Pfal.3  7.'39» 
Jcr.29.Ii. 


Plal.7J  »5j-4- 


Its  nccejfary  td 
learne to  lively 
jaithiiMflUita 

Heb.  6.  iz, 
Rev.i  j.lc. 


Plali7.i5. 
Pf.ii9.49!aJ<5' 


high  from  fuch  as  rife  up  againft  them.He  is  the  falvation 
of^  the  righteous,  and  thzvc  ftrength  in  time  of  trouhie ; 
His  thoughts  towards  them  arc  thonghtt  of  feace ,  and 
notcfeviU,  to  give  an  exfe^led  ettd :  He  is  continually 
with  them,  and  holdcth  them  by  their  hand  ;  hee  rvill 
guide  them  with  hid  counfell,  and  afterrvard  receive  them 
unto  glory,  ThefepromifeSjfo  often  repeated,  be  firme 
grounds  whereupon  to  build  our  f aith,tliat  we  fhall  not  be 
hindredbyaffiidlionsinoup  Chrifdan  courfc,  but  rather 
furthered, till wcattainc unto. the  end  of  our  courfe  in 
Gods  Kingdome, 

And  furely  it  is  moft  neceffary  that  we  learne  to  live 
t  by  faith  in  afflidions.  I'or  faithis  the  ground  of  fiJcnt  and 
quiet  cxpedlation  of  falvation".   When  Chriftians  are 
pcrfecutcd  forthenameofChrift,  all  men  fee  thrj  have 
great  needs  of  patience  ^  that  after  they  have  fhjfered  for 
a  time,  they  might  enjoy  the  promife ,  which  now  they 
hold  by  faith,  as  it  were  by  revcrlion,  not  in  adluall  pof- 
fe0ion.  But  withoutconfidence  there  can  be  no  patience. 
Il^aith  in  God  is  the  only  Ray  and  fupport  of  the  heart  in 
.trouble  and  afflidion.  I hadfaintedun/ejfe  I  had  believed 
to  fee  the  gcodnejfe  of  the  Lord  in  the  land  of  the  living. 
Remember  the  word  unto  thi  fervant,  upon  ^hich  thou  ha^ 
ca»[edme  to  hope.  This  is  my  comfort  in  my  ajfli&ion  ;  for 
^tJgy  word  hath  (jhickned  mee.  In  daily  and  lighter  tryaifs 
a  man  of   mi/d  and  patient  terhper  may  hold  up  the 
Head  :  but  when  one  deepe  calleth  unto  another.and  the 
waves  flow  over  our  head ;  when  nature  yceldeth ,  and 
the  heart  fainteth,  then  to  (land  f aft  and  be  of  good  cou- 
rage^that  onely  can  faith  doe,  which  is  ground^  upon  the 
rich  mercy  of  God,  and  relieth  upon  his  Almighty  po- 
wer. Faith  h  the  Palme ,  that  finkes  not  under  the 
waightieftofburdens,  the  Camomile  that  fpreadcs  the 
more  it  is  trodden ;  the  oile  that  ever  ovcrfwimmes  the 
grcateft  quantitie  of  water  you  can  powre  upon  iu  In 
!  the  moftboifterous  terapefts  it  Uf teth  up  the  cbiimc,  that 
wc  {hall  not  drownc;  and  when  a  man  is  halfe  dead,  it 
.     quickens 


ivhen  we  he  excrcifed  mfhmany  (jr  long  sffliBions. 

quickens  and  puts  life  into  him.  By  faith  the  Saints  have 
endured  cr(*e/l  mockj^^s  and  fcour^ingSybonds  andimprifcn" 
mentSftortftres  dnddeath  andjn  dllthefc  were  more  then  cort' 
queronrs. 

Faith  is  the  fliicldofthc  foul c,  whereby  it  is  defended 
again!}  all  the  fiery  darts  of  the  Dcvill.  When  we  arc 
afiiidcd,  uefliall  be  tempted  to  irrpa-tiencc  ,  defpaire, 
doubting  of  Gods  love,  and  the  ufe  of  wicked  incancs  to 
helpc  our  fches  out  of  trouble.  The  world  will  follow  us 
with  fcornes  and  taoiitSj  as  if  God  had  forfaken  us  and 
would  not  arife  for  our  helpc  ;  Our  ownc  corrupt  hearts 
will  be  ready  to  ftart  afidc,  repine,  faint,  qucftion  the 
Lords  truth  and  mercy :  and  *  Sarhan  will  not  be  wanting 
to  his  opportunity  with  all  his  might,  malice,  and  fubtikie 
to  feduce,  difcouragc,  or  terrific.  When  our  Saviour  was 
an  hungred  in  the  wildcrneflc ,  the  tempter  came  u-^t-o 
hifHy  audfafdj  If  thoH  be  the  Sonne  of  (jod^  command 
that  thcfe  (lones  be  made  bread,  NoW  feeing  the  burden  of 
affiid:ions  is  made  more  heavy  by  temptations  accompa- 
nying, we  had  nccdc  to  be  well  underpropped  with  a 
lively  faith,  that  we  might  withftand  and  rcpell  the  force 
of  the  Enemy. 

Faith  onely  fupplieth  all  our  wants  in  afilidion.  Kc 
that  pofleflTcth  all  earthly  things  in  greatefl:  profperity,  and 
hath  not  faith.hath  nothing  indccde  ;  much  lefle  the  man 
that  liveth  in  mifery  :  but  he  that  lives  by  faith  wants  no- 
thing that  is  good,  when  miferies  befcr  him  on  every  fide. 
For  the  prefcnt  riches  of  a  Chriflian  are  the  gracious  and 
faithfull  promifcs  of  God ,  which  faith  pofleflctb,  not 
looking  to  what  we  have  in  hand,  but  what  the  Lord  hath 
laid  up  in  ftorc  ;  and  expecSeth  to  receive  from  God  in 
fitted  feafon,  more  afllircdly,  then  if  he  had  it  in  his  owne 
power  to  ufc.  The  Men  of  this  world  truft  their  friends 
with  their  ftocke  or  monic,  and  make  account  it  is  as 
ready  at  hand,as  if  they  had  it  in  their  owne  po(leiTion:and 
fureitis,thctrue  believer  hath  juft  and  good  caufe  to 
xxuX  God  ratlier  then  hi.rifelfe,  and  to  rclie  upon  his 

word 


3^7 


Ephcf.tf .  1 6. 


pral.3.».&  5  c 
Jjb.30.1, 

*  iThcf.j.f. 
Muih.4.  J. 


h- 1" 


318 


Hab  1.4- 


Pfal  18.2. 
De11t.ji.50. 
Pfal  31.5.& 


novo  to  \ivt  hj  Faith  in  time  of\yidverfitie. 


The  Godly  are 
atlortedto  live 
'  hy  fahh  in  af- 
fli£liom» 
» I  Tim. 4  P. 
*  Rom.8.18. 


«  I  Cor.io.  I  J« 
d  Ads  17.  ii« 


Pfal.  56  5. 
Ptal.  3  t.  f. 


Pfa.23.4. 


word  for  wbatfccver  he  hath  committed  unto  him.  Faith 
in  time  ofdangerdotha:ic  were  fence  and  compaffc  us 
with  the  promifes  of  God  :  but  without  faith  we  are  na- 
ked, and  lie  open  to  the  fnalice  of  our  advcrfaries.  'Behold, 
hisfdPtle  vhkh  U  lifted upy  it  not  upright  in  hiwy  but  the  juji 
fhall  live  b-j  hU  faith ,  The  unjuft  man  pufFes  up  himfclfc, 
and  buildcs  towers  ofdefence  to  bimfelfe  :  but  the /uft 
man  believeth,  and  that  lliall  be  to  him  in  ftead  of  all  ca- 
bles ,  towers,  and  bulvvarkes  in  the  world.  For  it  brings 
us  under  the  wing,  prefence,and  protection  of  Gcd  :  it 
makes  him  our  refuge  and  fafeguard^high  rocke,and  tow- 
er ofdefence. 

Affi!(!T:ions  profit  not,  if  they  be  not  mixed  wi.h  faith 
in  them  that  beare  them.  Bodily  phylicke  procureth  not 
health,  if  natural!  heate  be  lacking  in  the  patient,  which 
mightcaufethe  potion  to  worke  to  the  expelling  of  the 
ficke humour:  faith  in  refped  of affl!<flions  the  phyficke 
of  the  foulc,  h  that  naturall  heate,  whereby  they  are  made 
to  worke  kindely  to  the  purging  of  finne  and  the  incrcafe 
ofgrace  and  comfort :  where  it  is  altogether  wanting, 
there  can  be  no  kirdly  worke. 

The  righteous  are  allowed  to  live  by  faith  in  the  times 
of  evil),  when  calamities  of  all  forts  compafle  them  about, 
For  ^  godliness  hath  thepromife  of  this  life,  axd  that  Tvhtch 
i^  to  come :  znd  the  g,od\y  are  to  believe  bothj  according 
to  the  word  of  the  Lord.  God  hath  promifed,  that  ^  4// 
things  Jhall  worke  together  for  goody  to  tben9  that  love  ^od, 
and  that  ^  he  tvill  notfufer  us  to  be  temptedabove  that  we  are 
Able :  and  it  is  our  duty  to  ^  believe  God ,  that  it  lliall  be 
even  as  he  hath  told  us. 

The  godly  have  had  this  confidence  in  former  times, 
whofe  praclife  is  both  a  token  of  our  privikdge,anda  pat- 
terne  of  owxdwtyWhat  time  1  am  afrai  il  will  trufl-  in  thee. 
Into  thiije  hand  I  commit  rny  jpirit  :  thou  ha/f  redeemed  me^ 
O  Lord  Go  :i  of  truth.  Tea^  though  Iivalk^  through  the  valley 
ofthefhaMoTvofdeath,  Iwill  feare  no  evid-^for  thott  art 
tvith  me^  thy  rod,  and thjflaffe  they  c^mftrt  me.  Come,  and 

let 


when  yve  he  exercifcd  with  mart)  dr  long  afflichons. 


319 


Hofi«. 


Im\' 


Efiy  JO  1 8. 


IU\2.-f. 


let  Hi  returne  unto  the  Lord:  for  he  hath  tornr,  und  he  tci/l 
heale  Hi,hehathfmitter.  J  andhervill  Oinde  m  up  :  Af'cr 
two  ^ajes  vrili  he  revive  vu^in  the  third  day  he  rvill  raife  fu  »pj 
Andree  fl.all  live  i <j  hiift^nt,  | 

God  is  hereby  much  glorified  that  we  reh'e  upon  hitn] 
as  our  rocke  of  defence,  al-lufticicnt  Saviour,  and  truilieft  j 
friend  in  time  ofdift.  efle.  It  h  one  .)f  the  Lords  mod  ro;- 
al!  titles,  to  be  the  fW^fy  of  the  Fathfr/fjfe  ^  and  a  j»^ge\  Pfal.68.^, 
of  the  wi'^'d^wes, a  refuge  for  the  cpprejfed,a»d  the  he/per  cf  the  j  P'al.«).9. 
poore,  ThoH  hafl  hecne  afxreriethto  thepoorc,  a.  ftrtngtU  to     ''■'^  10. 14 
the  needy   in    hit    diftre^e ;  a  reftt^^e  frtim  the  (lorme  ,  *  I 
fhxdoro   fi-om  the    heate  ^  rvhen   the    i>L%(l   of  the  terrible 
ones  ii   tu  a    Fiorme   agatKjl    the    tvali,   t^nd   therefore 
trill  the  Lor  hvaite,  that  hee  may  bee  gracious  unto  you^  and 
therefore  will  he  be  exalted,  that  he  may  have  mercy  upon 
you. 

The  Lord  hath  commanded  us  to  waire  upon  him  in  the 
dayes  of  calamity  and  forrow.  Thejufl  pjallLve  hyfaitbjz 
is  the  very  fcope  of  tliis  t£xt,to  teach  this  one  point  of  do- 
(!^rinc  to  tlic  /<rw<?r,  u  hen  they  Hiould  be  opp;  efled  by  the 
'BahjlonianSyviz.xhdX  in  greatc(t  dangers,the  onely  way  is 
to  ftay  our  felves,  and  cftablifli  our  hearts  by  faith  on 
Gods  promifes. 

Confidence  in  God  doth  the  more  binde  and  oblige 
him,  as  it  were,  to  doe  us  good.  The  Lord  fhall  helpe  the 
righteous  anddeliver  them  :  hejhaU  deliver  them  from  the 
mcked,  andfave  them  hecaufe  they  trufl  in  him.  Thsu  wilt 
keepe  him  in  perfe^ peace,whofe  minde  is  (lajfd  on  thee,  be' 
CAHfe  he  hath  trufledin  thee.  Twill  fur  .^ly  deliver  thee^  and 
thou /halt  mot  fall  by  thefrvord^  but  thy  life  (hall  be  for  a  prey 
unto  thee  becaufe  thou  hafl  put  thy  trufl  in  me^fAith  the  Lord. 
If  a  friend  relie  and  build  upon  ou'- faithful]  proinife,  wc 
rake  our  felves  bound  not  to  frij  Irate  his  expc<fVation  in  a 
dead  lift :  the  Lord  will  never  leave  the  foule  dettiute, 
which  trufts in  him.  The  faithfnU  have  promifed  them- 
felves  helpe,  and  confidently  begged  aid,  becauie  they 
truftcd  in  the  Lord  :  "Be  mere  if  till  unto  me,  O  Gody  be  m:r.  i  -, 

cifeiliX 


prii. 


17.^0, 


EQy  2^.  J. 


Jrjj.iS. 


Pril.l4'.8. 


'fU.  57.«. 


320 
I'lal.  J 7. 1. 


rrai.i45-8>9. 


ASisoJ faith  in 
refpe5i  of  thefe 
fromifcs. 
I- 
Efay  4^.  7. 
Amos  J.  6. 
Job.  1.1 1. 
Pfal.119.  75:. 

Heb.iz.7. 
Hof.^.l. 

Prov  3.1  Ml. 
zSam.i6.i2. 


3. 


2  Chion.:.-^  \x 


How  to  live  bj  Faith  in  time  of\^dverfitie, 

cifhll  unto  me ,  for  my  foulg  trnflfth  in  thee  \  jca  in  the /ha- 
dowofthywifigswilllm/tkf  mjf  reftt'ge ^  ftntiH  thefe  caU- 
mities  be  over  fafi:.  CAufe  »?  to  he  Are  thy  loving  kinds- 
nejfein  the  Ollcrairg,  for  in  thee  doe  I  trfffi;  caufe  me 
to  k^tow  the  w4y  wherein  I  fhould  wa/kf,  for  I  lift  up  my 
fonle  unto  thee.  Deliver  mee  ^  O  Lord^  fi-om  mine  e- 
nemies^ferlflie  unto  thee  to  hide  mee.  And  to  hope  in 
GodjandtohaveGodforourhelpc,  are  linked  together 
in  Scripture,  fo  that  his  helpe  is  ready  for  all  them ,  who 
reft  upon  him  in  truth,  Happy  is  he ^  that  hath  the  Qod 
of  Jacob  for  his   helpe  :  rvhofe   hope  is  in  the  Lord  his 

I      The  ad:^  of  faith  inrefpetft  of  thefe  promifes  bcc 
thefe. 

Firftj  It  looketh  unto  God  and  acknovvledgech  his 
hand  in-  all  affiitflions ,  whofoever  be  the  inftruments. 
Shfill  there  be  cviRin  a  City,  and  the  Lord  hath  not  done  it. 
The  Lord gAve,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away.  I  know  O 
Lordjtbat  thy  judgments  are  rightyitnd  that  thou  in  faithful- 
nejfe  hafh  ajjlitled  me.  If  yee  endure  ehajiening,  ^od  dea- 
leth  with  yon  as  withfonnes  :  for  whatfonne  is  he,  whom  the 
Father  ehafteneth  not.  And  this  is  one  fpeciall  ground  of 
humiliation,  patience,  and  comfort.  Come^ani  let  w  re- 
turr.e  unto  the  Lordy  for  he  hath  tome,  and  he  wi&heale  us, 
AI^fonne,del^ife  not  thou  the  chajlening  of  the  Lori,  neither 
be  weary  of  his  correBion.  For  whom  the  Lordloveth,  he  cor- 
reEleth^even  as  a  father  thefonne,in  whom  he  delighteth.Let 
him  curfe :  for  the  Lord  hath  biJden  him.  It  may  be  that  the 
Lord  will  looki  °^  niine  ajfliflion,  and  that  the  Lord  will  re* 
^uite  good  for  his  curfing  this  day.  But  of  thefe  more  parti- 
cularly hereafter. 

Secondly,  It  tcachcth  that  we  are  in  fuch  diftreffes,  out 
of  which  none  can  helpe  us ,  but  the  ftrong  helper  of 
Ifrael.  Faith  fpeakcth  on  this  manner;  We  have  no  might 
agAnfl  this  great  company,  that  commeth  againjl  us  :  net' 
ther  kjtow  we  what  to  doe^  bat  our  eyes  are  upon  thee.  And 
'••cat  is  the  benefit  of  this  inftrudiion ,  for  it  drawcs  the 

heart 


\ 


when  we  he  excrcifedrvith  mm"^  and  long  dffliciiom. 


521 


Prov.zi.ji. 

Eccle,9.  t. 
I'ril.ii7.l. 


Eray.jo.7.& 

3- 


heart  from  carnall  rcpolc  in  mcancs  or  friends ;  it  expells 
vexations  and  diftrading  cares,  and  cflranges  from  the 
ufe  of  unlavvfull  meanes  of  deliverance  whatfoevcr.  The 
horfe  is  prepartdagAinji  the  day  ofbatteU :  htttfafety  is  of  the 
Lord.  fuAn  horfe  ps  (fnt  4  vaine  thing  tofaz'e  a  man  ;  neither 
is  44y  mAn  delivered  by  his  greAt  ffrengrh.  And  the  Ikmc 
may  be  faidof  wirdomc,(wiftnefle,wealth,or  the  force  of 
any  meanes  vvhacfoever,though  never  lo  la  wfull,or  likely : 
But  as  for  unlaw  full  meanesjiiogoodfucccflc  can  be  hoped 
from  them.7'i&^  Sgyptians PjaU  helpe  in  vaine,andto  no  par'. 
pofe\  therefore  hAve  I cryed concerning  this^  theirjfrength  is 
to  fit  Hill, 

Thirdly,  It  wifely  dirc(5lcth  us  to  confidcr,  that  the 
caufc  of  all  mifcrie  and  forrow  is  finne,  and  thereupon 
drives  to  examine  ourwayes,  humble  our  fclves  before 
God  for  mercy ;  renew  our  hope  in  his  grace,  and  fct 
upon  reformation  of  what  15  out  of  order,  faith  is  a  good 
Phyfitian,  that  fecketh  to  cure  the  difeafe,  by  taking 
away  the  caufe  thereof ;  when  God  takes  tryall  of  u« 
that  we  might  know  our  felves,  faith  maketh  fearch  in- 
to the  heart ;  when  he  judgeth  by  his  chaftifemcnts,  faith 
maketh  us  to  judge  our  fclves  ;  and  when  God  ftriketh 
for  finne,  faith  ftriketh  at  the  head  of  (innc.  Lit  tu  fearch 
And  try  our  tvAies,4ndturne  agAtne  to  the  Lord.  I  thought  on 
my  Kfayes  :  And  turned  my  feet  unto  thy  tefiimonitf.  When 
C^AHAJfes  was  in  afflidion,  he  befought  the  Lord  his 
God,  and  humbled  himfclfe  greatly  before  the  God  of  his 
Fathers.  Surely  it  is  meete  to  be  f aid  unto  God,  I  have  borne 
€hajiiftm:nty  Irvillnot  offend  Any  more^  That  which  I  fee 
not  J  teAcb  tboff  mee  I  if  I  have  done  iniquity ,  I  vfill  dee  no 
more. 

Fourthly,  Faith  meckeneth  the  heart  willingly  to  fub- 
mititfclfc  to  the  good  plcafurc  of  God,  and  patiently  to 
bcarc  his  corredlion.  Refi  in  the  Lord^  andwaitepAtiently 
for  him  :  fret  ntt  thy  felfe  becAufe  of  him  ivho  profpereth  in 
I  his  way,  Tet  unto  Goci  myfoule  keepe  thouftlence :  for  from 
him  is  my  cxpc6iAtion.   By  faith  the  fcrvants  of  God  h?. .  c    Efay.j  o.  i  s. 

Y  beenc | 


Hof.f.ij. 


1  Cor.11.31. 

Lam.  3. ^9. 
rfal.1i9.y9. 

aChro.33.1z 


lob.  3  4. 3 1,52. 


4. 


Pfal.jr.r. 

^^.»m.3.i6* 


'2_'T 


322 


Efay.39.8. 

Mich.7.9. 


aSam.i  ^.i6. 
Pfal.iji.z. 


By  what  conft- 
derations  faith 
perjwades  to 
meelienes  utder 
Gods  hand. 

I. 
Lam  339. 


lohn.xS.iXi 


I  HotvtoU'vehj  Faith  in  timiofAd'verfme^         I 

I  becne  inabled  to  fay,  The  word  of  the  Lord  is  good,  IviS 
\  benre  the  xnd'tgnAtion  of  the  Lord ,  hscAufe  I  have  finned 
\  againfl  hiwy  ffnti/l  he  plead  my  caufe^  and  execute  indge- 
'  ntentformee.  If  he  [ay  thm,  I  have  no  delight  in  thee,  behold 
here  am  I,  let  him  doe  to  me  at  feemeth gtodunto  him.  Stirely 
I  have  behaved  and  o^meted  my  felfe  at  a  child  that  is  weaned 
cfhii  Mother  ;  my  fot*le  is  even  at  a  weaned  child,  I  was  as 
a  man  that  heanth  nety  and  in  whofe  mouth  are  no  retroofei. 
For  in  thee,  0  Lord,  doe  I  hopr.  Guiltineffc  o^  Confciencc 
("which  is  ever  fearefull,)  and  untamed  paiTions  make  an- 
quietneffe,  when  the  rod  of  God  is  upon  our  backcs  ; 
both  which  arc  corre(5led  by  faith.  The  confcience  is  com- 
forted by  faith,  refting  upon  the  gracious  prom'fes  of  par- 
don, and  giving  aflUrance  that  finnc  is  pardoned  j  Paffions 
are  curbed  and  bridled  by  the  foveraignty  of  faith,  as  ha- 
ving the  affeflions  under  command,  which  it  doth  fcafon 
and  move  according  to  the  direction  oi  the  word  j  and  by 
ftrong,  potent,  irrefiftible  perfwafions,  whereby  it  wor- 
keth  the  foule  to  this  fweete  and  heavenly  fabmiilion.  And 
as  a  p'aifter,  which  upon  fore  flefli  caufeth  much  fmart,up- 
on  found  flefli  ftirrcth  no  painc:  fo  troubles  lighting  apon 
a  foule  hea'ed  by  grace,  and  feafoned  by  faith,are  nothing 
fo  grievous. 

The  confiderations  of  faith,  whereby  it  perfwadc s  unto 
mcekneiTe,  be  fuch  like.  The  firft  taken  from  the  defert  of 
fin,  which  is  farre  greater  then  any  thing  we  fuftcr,or  can 
conccWcff^herefore  doth  a  Itving  matt  complaine^a  man  for 
thepuiiifl>mentofhisfinnes? 

The  fecond,  from  the  hand  that  layeth  the  rod  upon 
our  backe,  or  reachcth  out  this  bitter  potion,  which  we 
are  forced  to  drinke  off,  and  that  is  God,  opr  mofl:  wife, 
j  i"ufl:,gracious,and  l6ving  Father.  Whereas  humane  reafon 
\  did  cloudily  and  obfcurcly  fuggcft  to  it  followers  certainc 
broken  and  confufed  opinions,  little  better  then  dreames, 
ofdeftinie,and  providence :  Faith  doth  evidently  and  cer- 
tainly aflure  ofthis. ground  ofpatience  and  comforr,  that 
the  Icafl:  ticke  befals  u$  not,  without  the  overruling  eye 

and 


xvhenvpe  be  exercifedrvith  many  and  long  affli6hons, 

and  band,  not  onely  of  a  w  ife  God,  but  of  a  tender  Fath  .r, 
and  fellow- feeling  Elder  brother,  whobcft  knowctb,and 
can  meafure  out  ex-dlly  what  is  meeteft.  He  yrill  fjot  lay 
npon  man  more  then  right,  that  hsefhould enter  into  lud^e- 
ment  rvith  God.  Iiroi  dnmbe,  and  opened  net  my  mouth  hc- 
CAufe  thou  di^fi  it.  It  u  the  Lord,  let  him  doe  vchat  feemeth 
him  qood. 

Thirdly,  Out  of  this  principle  faith  extradls  this  infal- 
lible conclufion,  This  Cup,  how  bitter  and  wringing  foe- 
ver,  h  a  medicine  to  cure,  not  a  poyfon  todeftroy,  ming- 
led by  him,  that  moft  pcrfedly  doth  underftand  our  need,  i 
onr  ftrcngth,  and  the  working  of  his  owne  potion  ;  mini-  | 
fired  in  great  love  and  tender  compailion,  to  drive  out 
corruption,  confirme  faith,  preiervcfrom  falling,  ftreng- 
then  grace,  weane  from  the  world,  and  bring  neerer  to 
God  by  unfained  repentance    If  it  be  ficknefle  or  pover  • 
tie,  it  IS  in  our  Fathers  owne  hand,  and  he  will  not  contend 
for  everjefi  the  fpiritjijottlifaile  before  him  :  If  he  turne  us 
over  to  a  fcrvant  tolcourgeus ;  yea,  though  Sa:han  him- 
felfe  buffet  us,\  et  he  ftands  by  to  number  &  moderate  the 
ftripes,  that  they  (hall  not  lay  more  upon  us  then  fliall  be 
for  our  good  ;  and  he  will  inable  us  to  beare.    lam  very 
fore  diffleafed  with  the  Heathen  that  are  at  eafe  :  for  I  was 
but  a  little  diffleafed,  and  they  helped  forward  the  a^i^ion  i 
Therefore  thus  faith  the  Lordy  J  am  returned  to  Jerufalem 
with  mercies,    (J^iy  grace  is  [undent  for  thee  :  for  my 
Flrcngth  is  made  perfeU:  in  weaknejfe.    What  ever  befals 
being  in  Chrift,  it  cannot  bend  to  our  utter  confufion  : 
but  an  ifliie  {Fiall  be  given  unto  it.   What  terrible  noife 
foeverthe  fiorme  fliall  make  over  our  heads,  itfha-l  be 
but  as  baik-flones  upon  the  tiled  or  leaded  houfe,  that 
rattle  more  then  hurt.   We  are  kept  by  the  power  of 
Chrilf,  that  tbeEvillone  fliall  not  touch  us  :  we  are  in 
lafe  harbour  under  the  rocke,  and  fhall  never  be  confoun- 
ded. 

Sickewearc,  and  that  of  divers  humours,  which  may 
breed  dangerous  difeafes  if  they  be  not  prevented  :  troa- 

Y  2  blrs. 


325 


Lfvit.io.j, 

Plal.  39  ^. 
I  Sam. 3. 18. 


ECciy.^j.iS. 


Zach.i.iy,itf, 


»  Cor,  I*. p. 


1  It>hn,j.|8. 


7- 


Dan.i  1.55. 
Dcut.S.j. 
Heb.12.11. 
Dent.  J,  16. 
Rom  ^J,4. 
Zach.5.9. 

Mai  3.^ 

I  Pet. 1, 7. 


Pfal.|i9,7i. 


324       <  Hervto  live  bj  FaJth  in  timt  ef  Adverfitie^ 

■  bics,  loflcs,  difgraceSj  dangers  and  fuch  like,  arc  the  Lords 
j  baths  and  pil's,  whereby  he  rids  us  of  that  infccftious  mat- 
'  ter,  which  would  impairc  our  fpirituall  health,  if  it  were 
\  let  alone  J  his  bitter  potions,  that  {hall  workc  for  our 

■  health  and  welfare.  He  hath  faid  unto  Croflcs..purge,rc- 
I  fine,  try,  exercife,  breed  the  quiet  fruits  of  righteoufncffc, 

give  them  expericrcc  of  their  faith,  confirme  their  pati- 
ence, rupp::rt  their  hope,  make  them  bring  forth  more 
fruit :  but  he  harh  given  them  no  allowance  to  hurt,  vexc, 
confoundj  weaken  faith,  cr  wafte  any  grace  of  the  Spirit. 
When  we  feele  our  bowels  wring,or(as  in  a  Sea-ficknes) 
are  dead-fickc  for  the  prefcnr,then  faith  pats  us  in  remem- 
brance, we  fhall  be  the  better  many  daif  s  after.  Phyficke 
makes  fickc  before  it  gives  health  :  fo  doe  afflidions,  but 
the  ft  uit  is  pleafant.  When  they  arc  a  little  over  we  {Lall 
be  able  to  fay,  Ob,  this  was  good  for  me,  I  would  not  for 
anything,  but  I  had  borne  the  yoke  in  my  youth,  that  I 
may  live  the  more  comfortably  in  my  age.  Wife  parents 
do  not  alwaies  correcl  their  children  in  meafurc,  as  being 
ignorant  of  their  nature  and  difpofition.  The  moft  learned 
Phyfician  may  be  deceived  in  the  difeafc  and  conftitution 
of  his  patient,  miftakc  in  the  quality  orftrength  of  his 
Phyficke,and  fo  mif?e  of  his  intended  cure :  But  the  fpiri- 
f  uall  Phyfician  of  our  foulcs,  doth  fo  exadly  know  our 
temper  and  difeafe,  dothfo  intirely  afFed  our  health,  fo 
accurately  mingle  the  maligne  and  poifonfull  ingredients 
in  our  Phyficke  with  corredlors  and  al'ayes,  that  the  con- 
fedion  jfhall  be  good,and  altogether  fhall  and  muft  worke 
for  the  beft.  W  hat  t  hough  they  be  bitter  to  the  tafte  ?  It 
is  better  with  the  body  when  it  feedeth  on  (owre  herbes, 
which  breed  good  bloud,thcn  on  fweet  meates  which  en- 
gender bitter  vomits,6e  mortall  fickneflcs.The  true  foulc- 
\  ficknefTc,  'vizCm  and  corruption  that  d  welleth  in  it,  doth 
I  cleave  fo  faft,  and  hath  caicn  fo  deepe,  that  gentle  purges, 
Pr0.ze.3a  cafic  corrofives(that  fcarcc  work  to  fence  or  feeling)can- 
not  expell  or  remove  it .  True  it  is,  that  all  evils  in  them- 
fclvcs  art  hurtfull,  but  faith  lookcth  upon  them  as  they 
I  ^  arc 


vifhenwe  b(  exercifed with  many  Andlmgnffliliiom* 

are  changed  in  and  by  Cbrift,  who  hath  taken  away  the 
pnilbn  which  would  be  in  the  croflcs  wc  beare,and  makes 
them  ferviceablc  for  our  good  :Evcn  a.*  the  art  of  the  Apo- 
thecary doth  makcapoifonfull  Vipcrintoawholelbme 
Treacle. 

A  man  will  bearc  much  when  hec  fpieth  this,  that 
it  commeth  h-om  love  in  another  to  him  ;   But  God 
is  love  it  felfe:  and  from  love  proceedeth  every  courfe  he 
paflcth  upon  us,  as  well  this  of  adverfity  as  the  other  of 
profpcrity.    whom  he  Uveth  he  chajieneth,  dndfcourgeth 
every  fonne  -whom  he  receivcth.   The  care  and  good  will 
of  Parents  (hewes  it  felfe  in  providing  Medicines  and  I 
'Miyfickc,  which  ma^  prefcrvc  or  procure  the  health  of 
their  children,  no  leffe  then  in  their  allowance  of  meate, 
drinkf,  apparell,  or  other  bci>cfits,  which  they  beftow 
upon  them.    And  God  is  as  mercifull  in  preparing  and 
minifiring  Phyfickc  for  our  foules  health,  as  in  all  other 
his  daily  benefits.    Nay,  herein  doth  appeare  the  moft 
/peciall  and  tender  regard  that  God  hath  over  us.  For  if 
good  things  be  wanting  to  the  body  fpecially,  we  arc  apt 
to  askc,  and  fecke  after  them  :  But  fhould  the  Lord  let 
us  alone  till  we  find  out  the  difeafes  of  the  foule,  and  be 
defirous  of,or  willing  to  receive  his  mcdicinable  potions, 
our  fores  would  grow  incurable,  wc  (hould  pcrifh  in  our 
fin*.   Therefore,  as  the  believer  doth  receive  good  things 
from  God  with  /oy:(b  doth  he  cvill  with  mecKncfle.  The 
childe  will  take  from  the  mothers  hand,  as  well  fowrc  as 
fweet,  becaufc  he  is  perfwaded  of  her  tender  love  and  af- 
fe<5tion  :  fo  doth  faith  entertainc  affliftions  from  God,  I 
knowing  them  to  be  fruits  of  his  grace  and  fatherly  com- 
panion. 

Fourthly,  After  ferious  humiliation  and  nnfaincd  aba- 
ting of  the  foule,  faith  brings  tydings  that  God  will  lookc 
downc  from  Heaven  in  mercy,  and  fend  helpc  in  fitted 
fcafon.  If  their  uncireHmcifed  hearts  bee  humUed,  and 
they  thcHMCcept  of  the  fUHt/hment  of  their  init^Mtty.  Then 
wi/i  Irememher  my  coven  Ant  with  Jacob,  Mtid  slfomy  co* 

Y  5  venant 


325 


Hcb.w.f,^, 
Pioy.j.12. 
lob, y.  I  7. 
Apoc.j.19. 


Eray,48.io, 


lob.i.io. 


4. 


Dcu  4.19,21. 
3r.&}o.3,4. 
Lcv.£6.4 1,4X4 
Efay.54«^j7,8 


2-'T 


326 


Herv  toli'Oebj  F nJth'intimof  Ad'veyfme^ 


Efay.  33.8. 


Mich  7.'8,9. 


venant  vftth  Ilaak,  and  alf*  my  covenant  with  Abraham 
yVill  I  remfmher,  A(^6i  this  doth  marvcUoufly  quiet  and 
u§^U  the  heart;,.  .Sh^JiiUa  mm  i>c  v?ry  fickp  \vhilciithe 
'loPhyacke  dotKjvpfke  ,hf!  would  not  bcdiljii^yccl  fq  (oi'g 
'■  as  he  knew  the  fit  flioulci  laft  but  a  rcafon,  and  then  ealc 
(hould  rcturne  with  health  :  And  fo  it  farf-th  with  the 
,,faithfull  ill  their  afflidioiiS'.:    Hez'kl^h  i^id^ta  I/ai^lt'^ 
,  \.  Good  is  thewordyfjhf  Lord  vfjoick  f^^f^J^^'^M^.,}  /*-'/^4^, 
■^marfo.ver^f<jr there ffjall hp»a'c^  ^^idirttt 'ijn,my dfijff,;-^^^ 
}joyce  not  (  f  jith  the  Church  )  again fi  meey  O  mine  enemie ; 
when  I  fall,  I  jhall  arif.^  when  I  Jit  in  da^k^fcjfe,  the 
L»rd  Jhall  be  a  light  unto  mee,    I  will  heare  thi  indignati- 
on of  the  Lordy  hecaufe  I.  have  finned  affainjh  inm^  ttnttll 
heefUa  ^  my  cattfe  an^  execute  judgement  form^e  ;  hee  will 
bring  mee  forth  to  lights  and  Ifljali  behold  his  righteous - 


Heb.iz,»,3. 


Matth,  16.34. 


Efay.tfj.9. 


C0L1.24. 
1  pet.4. 13. 
Apoc  1 1.8. 

6. 


neue. 


Fiftly,  Moreover,  faith  doth  rc-minde  us  of  our  con- 
formity with  Chrift  in  afflidipns,  and.of  his  partnerftiip 
wirbus  therein.  If  he  that  was  the  firft-bomej  the  onely 
begotten  and  intircly  beloved  Sonne  of  God  :  if  he  that 
was  without  (inne,  yetwras  not  without  ftripes;  iliould 
wc  hope  to  goe  free,or  looke  to  be  cockered  continually? 
All  the.Spniies  of  God  by  Adoption  are  predeftinated  to 
be  m?(;ielike  their  elder-brother,  ap  in  holineffe  and  glory, 
fo  in  afflidionj!.  Should  we  thinke  much  to  fip  or  talte  of 
that  cup,  which  he  hath  drunke  oft'  for  our  fake  ?  The 
firft  Icflbn  we  take  out  in  thefchoole  of  Chrift  is,  Be^ 
niethy  felfe,  take  up  the  crojje,  andfoHaw  the  Lord  Jeftti, 
And  the  (orrowes  which  we  be^re,  are  not  io  much  ours 
as  Chrifts.  In  all  our  troubles  he  is  troubled  with  ny.': 
whac  burden  foever  lies  upon  us,  he  feeles  the  weight  of 
it.  When  Stephen  is  ft oned,  he  is  perfecu^ed  :  the  wrong 
done  to  the  Saints,  is  offered  t ./  him.  And  he  can  no  more 
bee-  unmiadfuU  of  his  people,  then  forgetfiill  of  him- 
felfe. 

Laftly,  Faith  f  ttcth  befr»re  us  the  infinite  recom- 
pencc  of  reward,  not  only  renowne  in  this  world,  which 

; y^^^ 


when  we  be  extreifedwith  ma^y  and  long  nffti^tiens. 


yet  by  faith  the  patience  ok  Job,  and  all  holy  Martyr.^  hath 
obtained  ;  but  that  farre  mofl:  excellent  weight  of  glory, 
which  T^^/ eying,   counted  his  afflidions  f  which  to  us 
wo^-dhave  beetle  intolerable)  light  and  momentany,not 
Worthy  to  be  named  in  comparifon  :  which  made  him  not 
onely  not  wecpe  and  howle,  but  fing  in  the  Dungeon, and 
reckon  it  a  fpeciall  fav(  ur  and  honour  to  be  counted,  not 
onely  a  believer, but  a  fuffcrcr  for  Orift.And  even  as  wa- 
ters fall  downe  into  vallies,  not  able  to  abide  ingrounds 
that  lie  high  :  fothc  fenfeofthefcsfflidionsgoethavvay 
from  mindes  that  are  lifted  up  in  fuch  contemplation.  By  I 
thefe  and  luch  like  p^rfvvafions,  faith  allures  the  heart 
willingly,  fVeely,  conrtantlyto  rciignc  itfclfc  to  the  good 
pleafure  of  God  in  all  things.   ;»Vnv\  -.  r'/-.       >•,• 

The  fift  aft  of  faith.  It  teachcth  wifcdomc  to  judge  a- 
right  of  all  affliftions.    "Blejfed  is  the  man  whom  thou  w- 
JirtiEiefl,  and  teacheft  him  out  of  thy  law  :   fcil.    wifely 
toconfider  ofaffl'dions  ;  of  their  nature,  end,  ufe,  and 
iiTue  to  them  that  f earc  God.    Hee  fliall  refi,  \^or  be  quiet^ 
in  the  dayes  of  adverfity.   Did  we  not  through  falfe  glaf- 
fes  fee  things  othcrwifc  then  they  are,  they  would  not 
cafl:  us  downe  fo  much  as  they  doe.    Want  of  heavenly 
wifedome,  what  voic  s  doth  it  draw  from  us  ?  Even  fuch 
as  thefe  ;  Were  it  any  thing  but  this,  I  could  hope  to  re- 
ceive good  from  it.    Whcrtas  through  the  fpeftarles  of 
faith  v,e  come  to  difcernc,  that  the  things  we  (uffjrare 
moft  fit  to  doe  us  good.    For  faith  feeth  not  according  to 
fcnfc  or  outward  appearance,  but  as  the  truth  is  in  Jcfus 
Chrill,  alwayes  magnifying?  the  wifdome  and  ccurfes  of  j 
God,  as  befl:  and  moft  for  our  profit.    The  Spirit  of  wife- 
dome  and  underftanding,  of  judgement  and  counfell  was 
powred  upon  Chriftjof  which  Spirit  wc  partake  by  faith, 
and  fo  are  made  wi'e  to  perceive  the  things  of  God,and  to 
j'u  'ge  aright  of  his  dealings  towards  us.    And  from  this 
proceeds  willingncs  to  give  our  neckes  to  the  yoke,when 
God  is  pleafed  to  put  it  on.    Fcare  of  liurt  is  that  which 
makes  us  fhannc  the  crofre,or  go  heartlefTc  under  it:  when 

Y  4  orce 


527 


2  Cof .'; 


4.17. 


'^f^cJJ/t^fftf 
fatth. 


Verfc 


ij' 


Efay.  11.2, 


^-7 


(J. 


Lam.  2.  t  p. 


Pfal.f7.iji.    I 
tChro.14.11.1 


Pral.«i.8. 

Prai.i4Vi,«. 
Job.f.8.&ii. 


J  28       I  ^^»»'  ^^  ^^  h  ^^^^  ff*  titmtf  Adverfitle^ 

,  once  by  faith,the  fcalcs  falling  from  our  cy€s,wc  come  to 
fcciturcfuU,bcneficiaU,healthfull,we  ftraiac  courtcfic  no 

i  longer,  but  take  icdownc, 

Sixtly,  True  and  unfained  confidence  will  not  kecpe  fi- 
lence  in  the  eares  oi  the  Lord,  nor  ceafc  to  importune  his 
aide,  to  intreate  his  favour.  Ari/ff  cry  out  in  the  night :  in 
the  beginning  ofthi  watches  powre  out  thine  h: art  like  tvd" 
ter^  before  the  face  of  the^  L'>rd:  lift  up  thj  hands  towards 
him.  Be  merclfull  unto  me,  0  God^  be  r»ercifnU  unto  Me,  for 
mjfoule  trufleth  in  thee  ;  yea,  in  thejhaiow  of  thy  wings  will 
I  make  my  refuge  j  untill  thele  calamities  be  over-pafi,  I  will 
cry  unto  Godmofi  high :  unto  God  that  performeth  all  things 
for  me,  Trttfl  in  him  at  all  timet,yee  people,  powre  out  your 
hearts  before  him:  Lord  in  trouble  have  they  vijtted  thee ; 
they powred out  a  prayer^when  thy  chafiening  was  upon  them. 
The  counfcll,  which  Slephaz  and  Zophar  gave  to  lob^  faith 
doth  apply  and  put  in  praftifc  •,  which  was  to  feekc  unto 
Godjand  commit  the  caufc  unto  him ;  to  prepare  the  heart 
and  ftrctch  out  the  hands  towards  him.  Having  no  wife- 
dom  of  our  felves  to  make  ufe  of  chafl:ifemcnts,nor  power 

J  to  deliver  our  foules,  faith  urgcth  to  feekc  unto  God,  that 
Elay,4«,  17.  he  would  lead  us  by  his  grace  in  the  way  that  we  fliould 
goc,  teach  us  to  profit,  and  in  due  time  vouchfafe  free- 
dome  and  deliverance.  The  true  believer  defires  the  be- 
nefit and  fruit  of  reftraint  and  correction,  no  Icfle  then  the 
comfort  of  freedome  and  liberty.  He  covets  that  rhe  fpi- 
rituall  fickneflc  may  be  removed,  when  the  bittv  r  potion 
is  taken  away.  A  wife  patient  will  neither  refuCe  to  (wal- 
low bitter  pils,  when  it  may  be  for  health ;  nor  difordcr 
himfclfe  to  make  worke  for  the  Phyfician  :  he  will  take 
Phyficke  to  recover  ftrcngth,  and  lay  it  afide  when  the 
troublelom^  maladie  is  expelled.  A  believing  patient  had 
rather  be  held  in  a  continuall  courfe  of  Phyficke,  then  that 
the  matter  of  fpirituall  ficknefle  (hould  gather,  and  in- 
gender  dileafes  in  thefoule.  Deliverance  witii  inward 
foundnefl'e  \%  the  thin^  which  he  longcth  after,  and  beg- 
geth  of  God.  Thus  faith  will  not  (ufFer  impotcntly  to 
fret 


ivheft  we  he  exerci fed  with  mmy  dndUngdffiiCtions. 

fret,  repine,  or  murmurc  ;  nor  yet  to  grow  fecurc,  as 
though  it  were  no  great  matter  how  things  went,forward 
or  backward  :it  doth  both  calme  the  heart,  and  kindle  de- 
fircs.  Nor  doth  faith  incite  barely  to  cry  unto  God  in  di- 
ftrcflc,  but  in  all  conditions  eftabliflieth  the  heart  upon  his 
afdc.that  it  lookes  not  after  other  meanes  of  deliverance, 
then  bee  affords.  The  upright  man  wi!  1  delight  himfclfe 
xn  the  Almighty,  when  trouble  commcth  upon  him  j 
he  will  call  upon  God  at  all  times,  and  lookc  unto  him  for 
heipc. 

Seventhly,  It  raifcth  the  heart,  being  confcious  of  it 
wcakncfibjto  reft  upon  the  Lord  for  flrength,who  makes 
us  able  to  doe  all  things  through  his  ftrcngthcning  of  us ; 
who  ftrengthencth  his  in  the  inner  man  to  long-fuftcring 
with  joyfulneffe ;  who  hath  faid,  fuch  as  looke  to  mee, 
fljA^  renew  their  firgn^thy  they  fhali  mount  up  tvith  wings 
as  Sagles.  they  Jhatt  rnnnCy  and  not  he  weary  :  they  Jhall 
wal^f  And  ti»t  faint :  yea,  it  fixcth  and  eftabliOicth  the 
heart  upon  Chrift  the  rockc  ftrong  and  impregnable, 
whence  followeth  courage  and  fteadincflc  toundergoc 
them.  ThoH  wilt  keepe  him  in  perfeU  peace  (  faith  the 
Prophet)  whofeminde  \_or  thought^  is  ftajed  on  thee  :  be- 
canfe  hce  trtifteth  in  thee.  The  rightetHs  fljall  not  be  afraid 
of ev ill  ty dings,  hU  heart  infixed  []  or  eftablifhed,  ]]  andtru- 
fieth  in  the  Lord.  Thus  faith  Ictteth  the  Lord  alwayes  in 
it  fight,  and  fornficth  the  heart  in  confidence  of  his  might. 
/  have  fet  the  Lord  alwayes  before  mee^  becaufe  hee  is  at 
my  right  hand,  I  (hall  not  be  move  /;  (that  is)  I  have  over- 
come all  temptations,  my  hope  being  faftcned  upon  the 
Lord  ;  for  he  hath  powerfully  aflifted  and  comforted 
mee. 

Our  ftrength  is  to  clafpe  to  Chrift,  and  hold  to  him, 
as  the  pcrfon  in  whom  is  all  our  ftrength.  The  hil-rats 
arc  a  weakc  creature,  havirg  n-ithcr  fttength  oflimbcs, 
nor  other  meanes  of  nature  to  dcfe  d  themlclvcs  :  but 
making  their  boufss  in  the  rockc?  or  ftonie  places,  and 
flying  thither  in  time  of  danger,  they  favc  thcmfcWcs, 

and 


3^9 


Pfal.f.j. 
Mich.  7. 7, 


7,Aa. 

PI11I.4.IJ. 

eoi.i.ii. 

Ephcf.j.i^. 
Efay.40.31. 


Pfal.94.iz. 

Efay,2  5,j, 

a  Chron,i5, 

6,7,8- 
Pfal. 


Pfal.16.8. 


Pro  jo.io. 


330 


How  te  Itvc  hj  Faith  in  time  of  Adverfitie, 


Efay.jo.ij. 


Efay.ll.a, 


Eph.4.iJ,i6. 


Deut.zo.j. 

Efay.7.4« 
1  Chron-  j  3.7 
Pror.2,8.1. 
Pfal.izj.i. 
Efay.ia.z. 

IJofh.io.i?.  ' 
Deut.51.6.  j 
lChron.i8.ao 
iChron.'jz.y. 
Pfal.27,..i4. 


and  provide  fafely  for  tbcir  young-ones.  Wee  of  our 
fclves  are  feeble  and  weake ,  eafily  overturned  with 
the  lead  temptation  :  bu-  working  cur  fclves  by  faith 
into  that  rocke  jcfus  Cbrift,  againO:  whom  the  powers 
of  Hell  cannot  prevaile,  we  become  couragious,  un- 
moveable,  invincible.  It  matters  nor  wh:'.t  weight  be  laid 
upon  the  foundatioTi,  foirbe  fare  and  ftedfafl:,  ifChrift 
be  our  fiipprter,  (as  by  faith  he  is  niadc  ours  )  nothing 
can  overwhelme  us.  In  quietnejfe  and  confidence  is  our 
flrength. 

I      Againc,  by  faith  we  receive  the  Spirit  of  fortitude  and 
I  courage,whereby  we  arc  made  able  to  endure  rhe  butthen 
j  of  afJBidions,  and  become  valiant  in  combatcs.  ^  FoT  the  \ 
I  fpirit  of  wildome  and-counfell ,'  of  unicrltanding  anc(  j 
j  flrcngth  was  powred  into  Chrift,  to  the  end  we  might  I 
boldly  goc  unto  him,  to  aske  thofc  things  we  ftand  in 
need  of,  and  receive  them  by  faith  according  to  our  raea- 
fure.   A3  the  h-ad  <:ommun!cates  ftrewgth  to  the  body,  fo  j 
phrift  powrcs  out  the  vcfrluc  of  his  heavenly  ti.^<5lion  upon  ' 
the  whole  body  of  his  Church.    When  th'e  Apoilles  had  j 
received  this  fpirit  of  ftrength,they  make  a  play  of  al  their  j 
fuffc-rings  and  laboiirsjc  ven  as  in  bodily  things  we  fee  men 
that  have  ftrength  and  courage  (as  thefe  porters  and  fuch) 
they  will  make  a  fporfto  beareluch  biirthens,  as  a  weakc 
creature  would  tremble  to  lift  at.I^br  as  bladders  fwimmc 
aloft  all  waters  whilfl:  they  arc  filled  with  windc  :  fo  doc 
wc  above  all  afflidions,  wbilcft  this  Spirit  is  with  us,,  to  i 
fupport  us  in  them.    ;  ;  •  *^- ^^'^ ' '  ■■  ■  -■■''■    ,';  j 

Fcare,  doubting,  fdebteitefleV  fainting;' nice-tcnder- 
neffe,  or  melting  of  heart  p^^c^d  frdminfit^clity  and 
j  diftruQ:.    HardinefTe,  courage,  valour,  invincible  durance 
I  are  the  frufts  of  faith,  flaying  it  f'-lfe  upon  the  Lord,'  and 
I  feeking  unto  him.    'Be  (frongibe  of^ookcmYAge^feire  not-, 
j  »or  be  difmayed,f^r  thjll,'ord(if>i/l  hewi'tl^  'ihhjt^e  vptKnotfaih 
t^ee  mrforfake  thee ,T>\^t\x^  many  timcsfwringsTro.tri'U^ 
fuch  voicesas  thcfc,werc  it  any  thing  !>ut  this,I  cduld  hop8 
tobcarc  it :  Whereas  did  we  in  coiifciencc  of  our  impo- 

tencie 


tvhcft'  we  be  exercised  with  many  andlcn?;^  afflf6fions,    I       331 


—     - 


tencic  feek  to  Chrift  to  make  U!  ablc,and  fa  •  en  our  felves 
upon  him  by  a  lively  Faith,  wc  fhould  finde  ftrcngth 
enough  through  his  might,  vvnerby  to  beare  that  comfor- 
tably,  whicn  we  thinkeinofl:  intoUcrablc.  Faith  drives  a 
iTiau  ou.  ofhiml"cl;e,as  n-t  able  to  beare  the  Icaft  croflc  as 
he  ought,  and  riirough  the  power  of  God  it  cnablcth  to 
beare  thatbcit  (  haw  troablcfome(ocver)  with  which 
f  God  is  plcaied'tc  trie  us. 

Eii;h:l),  By  faith  ihc  godly  heart  is  dravnetoufcall 
lawful!  meancs  ot  liclpc,  that  Goi  in  his  providence  doth 
affjrd,  ;buc  reftcth  quietly  upon  God;?  promifes,  and  affu- 
.ijance.of  his  prcfence  above  all  likelihoods  a  .dappearan- 
.ces,  G<\4{f^Ujf and {(^iiih  the  Pfalmift)  at  the  right  hand  of 
ti^efoorf  tjojave  hint  !rom  thofeythat\con<iemne  his  fotile. when 
Icrie^Hnto^thee,  thenfljall  mine  enemies  turne  baeke^  this  I 
know  J  for  God  is  for  me,  UMoJes  left  Sgypt,  and  feared  not 
the  wrath  of  rhe  King  :  bccaufchcfaw  him  that  was  in- 
visible. The  reafon  hereof  is,  faith  coupkth  the  meanes 
and  the  end,  but  lookcth  to  the  promifer,  his  grace,  faith- 
fulncfl'e,  and  power  (who  is  able  to  doe  above  all  that  wc 
can  comprehend  j  and  not  to  the  probability  of  the  thing 
promifed.  ^Abraham  againft  hope  believed  in  hope,  that  hee 
might  bicome  the  Father  of  many  Nations^  being  fully  per-- 
fxvadedythat  what  Cjod  had  promifed yhe  wm  able  to  per  forme, 
ByfaithSzv2ireceivedJ}rengthto  beare aSonnCy  whenjhee 
vpos  pafi  age ;  becaufejhe  jndged  him  faithfnll  who  had  pro- 
mised. 

This  depsndancs  on  the  promifes  which  faith  workcth, 
is  abfolute,  without  limitation  of  time,  meaiiirc  of  afflic^i- ! 
on,  or  manner  ofdcliverance.  All  thefb  it  refcrrefh  to  the  ' 
good  pleafure  of  Gods  will,  and  repo(eth  it  felfe  fecurely 
upon  his  faithfull  word  and  providence. H<f  that  believeth 
will  not  make  hafie.  Tcarc  rides  port  to  out-runnc  dan- 
gcr.&  folly  turnes  over  with  fpeed'our  mourning  part  be- 
fore God,  uclighting  to  be  id  the  houfc  of  laughter  :  but 
faith.whichlcanethu'jon  the  promifes  of  truth,  makes  no 
haftc  without  good  I'pced.  Daniel  waited  fe  vcnty  yearcs 

for 


8.  Aft. 


Midi,"'.  7. 

Hnb.i.i. 

Pfal  f.j. 

I'fll.IOc?.?!, 

Pr.il.:2.a4. 

lHal.56.9. 

Hcb.i  1.17. 


Ephcf.3,10, 
Rom.  4, 1 8,11. 

Hcb.  ii.ii. 


What  manner 
«/  dependance 
on  the  promife! 
jaitb  toorl^etb. 

Efjy.zS.KS.     i 


Dan.p.i, 


33* 

Heb.11.x9. 

Efay.63.5. 


Pfal.49.f. 
Pfal.S^-4- 


Ezra.8.i». 


pral.i7.t,i,5 
Pfal.j  0. 
Pfal.54.4,5. 

pral.118.7. 
Pr»i'4^.S.7. 


Pfal.ii5.5,7' 
pral.ia.4. 


How  te  live  by  Faith  in  time  cf  Adverfttie, 


for  deliverance  out  of  captivity  in  Bahylon^^  then  finding 
the  time  of  redemption  to  be  at  hand,  be  prayed  to  God 
for  the  fame.  As  tor  the  meafure  ofaiflidion,or  mcancs  of  1 
deliverance,  the  voice  of  faith  may  be  heard  in  7<?^  and  ', 
tAhraham.   The  one  protefled  he  would  truft  in  God  ; 
though  he  fhould  kill  him ;  The  other,  being  commanded 
to  facrifice  his  onely  Sonne  l[aiic  the  Ibnne  of  the  promiff , ' 
believed  that  fome  other  way  he  fhould  receive  him  from  , 
the  dead.  This  effedl  faith  bringcth  forth  when  all  meanes  | 
failc,  yea,  againft  all  oppofitions,  in  (hew  never  fo  flrong  | 
and  irref.ftiblc.    For  the  meanesof  themlelvesbcof  no  j 
worth  and  validitie,  and  Hod  is  chc  fame,  one  and  un- 
changeable (whofoever  oppole  ihcmlelve«  sgainft  his  de- 
tcrminations)moft  ready  to  fuccour  when  al  mcancs  failc.  | 
Godis  onr refuge AMdfirength.a  very prefent  he/pe in  tronble:  \ 
Therefore  will  ve  ftotfeare^thoagh  the  earth  be  removed^And 
though  the  mountainet  bee  cafi  uto  the  mldit  of  the  Sea, 
Though  the  waters  t  hereof  roarej  and  be  tro  fib  led,t  hough  the 
mountaines  Jhake  with  thefwelling  thereof,  pyherefrrejiou/d 
Ifrare  in  the  dales  ofEviBy  when  the  iriojuitj  of  my  heeles 
I  (  that  \Sy  the  wickcdneffe  my  fcctc  carried  mcc  to  )  fjatt 
compare  me  about.    For  the  hand  of  ok  f  <^odu  npon  aS  them 
for  good,  that  feeke  him,  bttt  hit  power  and  his  wrath  is  a~ 
gainji  all  them  that  forfake  him.    The  L ord is  my  light  and 
my  falvation,  whom  Jhall  I feare  ?  The  Lordis  the  ^rength 
cf my  life,  of  whom  JiraU  I  be  afraid?  Though  an  hoafijhctt  Id 
encampe  againfi  me,  my  heart /ball  not  fe are,    'Behold^  God 
is  my  helper,  the  Lord  is  with  them  that  uphold  my  foule. 
He  JhaU  reward  cviSunto  mine  enemies  ;  cut  them  off  in  thy 
truth. 

But  for  fapport  in  this  cafe,faith  turncth  it  fclfc  to  me-  j 
ditatc  on  Gods  truth,  which  never  failcth ;  his  might  \ 
which  cannot  be  refilled  ;  his  wifedome,  which  ever 
cfFcdteth  his  own  workes  by  meanes  bcfi:  approved  in  his 
counlelljin  the  fitted  fcafon ;  and  his  tender  compaflions 
whereby  he  h  ready  to  fiKcour  them  that  are  brought 
low, '  Againc,  it  lookcth  to  the  manner  of  Gods  dealing, 

and 


vohen  we  be  exerdfedrvith  mmy  AndlongaffliUioris* 

and  to  the  ufuall  courfc,  which  he  hath  held  with  his  fcr- 
vants  in  all  ages  paft :  which  is  to  grant  deliverancc,whcn 
the  afflidions  of  his  fervants  be  incrcafcd,  and  lend  hclpc, 
when  to  fcnfe  and  reaion  it  is  furthcft  of.For  every  foulc' 
is  the  LorJs,  m  the  feu le  of  the  father^  fo  4lfo  the  foule 
of  the  fonne :  and  what  favour  he  hath  fhewcd  unto  any 
one,  he  will  vouchfafc  to  every  one  that  fecketh  him  dili- 
gently, ifit  may  be  for  their  good.    It  is  alfo  confirmed 
by  the  experience  of  Gods  dealing  with  us  in  former 
times  of  diftreflc  and  danger.    Thon  art  hee  that  tooke  mee 
cm  ef  the  vfombe  \  thou  didfl  mak^  meehope^  tvhen  I  was 
upon  my  mothers  brettjis.    I  wot  cafl  upon  thee  fi-om  the 
lYombe ;  thou  art  my  God  from  my  mothers  belly.    O  God 
thoH  kafi  taught  me  jrommj  youth'^andhither  ttnto  have  I  de- 
clared thy  vfondrous  tvorkest  For  former  mercies  are  as  bils 
obligatoric  under  his  hand,to  alTurc  of  future  good  things, 
as  they  fhall  be  ncedfull.  That  which  God  hath  once  done 
for  us  in  fuftaining,  quickning,  quieting  our  fpirits  with 
peace  which  paffcth  undcrftanding,  keeping  our  hearts  j 
that  he  will  doe  every  day  unto  us,  if  weinforce  our 
feVes  towards  him.Moreover,a  good  heart  will  not  ceafc 
to  accufe,  checke,  and  condemnc  it  felfc  for  the  Infidelity, 
diftruft,  and  weakneffe  of  faith  that  it  efpieth  ;  to  incite, 
ftirrc  up,  and  call  upon  it  fclfe  more  confidently  to  waitc, 
and  truft  in  the  Lord  ;  and  in  bitterneflc  of  heart  to  feekc 
and  fue  unto  him  for  more  ftrength  from  above,   ff'hy  art 
thou  cafl  dorfne,  O  my  foule,  ivhy  art  thou  dif quieted  within 
mee  ?  IJope  in  God^  for  I  pjaHyet  praife  him  for  the  helpe 
of  his  countenance,  O  my  God.  my  foule  ii  cafi  dotvne  -within 
mee. 

Ninthly,  Taiih  bclievcth  one  contrary  in  another,  and 
out  of  deepefl:  diftreflcs  gathereth  afluranceof  fwcetcfl 
deliverances.  Tor  the  Lord  f?al I  judge  his  people,  and 
repent  himfe  If e  for  hit  fervants  y  when  hee  feet  h  that  their 
power  if  gone,  and  there  is  none  Jhut  up  or  left.  The  Lord 
will  be  a  refuge  for  the  opprejfed :  a  refuge  in  time  [[  or  due 
timt~^  of  trouble.  Mans  extremity  is  Gods  opportunitie : 
Deepcftl 


355 


EX.3.8.&  y.6. 


E2ek.i8.4. 

rfil.i».9. 

rr.1l.71.17. 
2  Tim. 4. 17, 
18. 

• 

Pfal.  41.5,1 1. 


9.  Afr. 


a  King.  14,26. 
Pfal.^.5.& 
10, 1. 


J--7' 


334 


Exod  i4,ar. 


Jei-.50,i5,i4, 


Ier.?2.24,%f, 

&c. 


H<7fl7  to  live  by  Faith  in  time  of  Jdverjltie, 

Deeped  mifery  is  the  fitteft  (eafon  for  deliverance.  Men 
often,  like  to  Swallowes,  will  be  with  us  in  Summer,  but 
leave  us  in  winter.  The  Diveil,  when  he  hath  drawne  his 
irtto  the  bryars,  will  give  them  leave  to  looke  for  them- 
felvcs.  But  God  hath  ever  ftcod  necreft  to  his,whcn  their 
exigencies  havebeenc  greateft.The  experience  of  milery 
dc  calamity  is  trade  the  fure  ground  of  lu-:h  joyfuli  h.opes, 
35  the  Lord  hath  prpmiied.  The  gr^eater-  lorrowe^.tbc 
people  of  God  fuffered,  the  more  undoubted  experience 
they  I'ad  of  divine  truth  contained  in  C^I^ofaic^Jl threat- 
nings  :  the  more  undoubted  the  experience  of  their  trurb, 
upon  confcioulneile  of  their  own  tranfgreiTionsj  the  grca» 
tcr  motives  they  liad,  upon  hearty  as^d  fincerc  repentance, 
to  apprehend  the  ftabilitie  of  his  lv\-eete(l:  promifes  for 
their  good.  No  depreflion  of  this  people,  but  lerved  as 
a  counter-fway  to  haften,intend,  or  inlarge  the  mealure  of 
their  wonted  exaltation,  fo  long  as  they  rightly  weighed 
all  their  anions  and  proceedings  in  C^fofej  ballances,  and 
compared  the  ir  permanent  for  row  for  fin  paft  with  their 
wonted  delight  in  tranfient  pleafures.  This  that  the 
Lord  had  ftricken  facol;  wi'h  the  wound  of  anencmie, 
and  with  a  fharpe  chaftifement  for  the  multitude  of  his 
iniquities,,  is  propounded  as  an  argument  ofconfolation  : 
for  becaufe  the  Lord  had  killed,  they  muft  believe,  he 
would  make  alive  againe.  The  prefent  wounds,  infiided 
contrary  to  the  rules  of  pohtique  defence,  were  the  befl: 
pledges  of  their  future  healthy  beyond  all  hope  of  State- 
Surgeons.  And  when  Jeremy  more  admired,  then  dillru- 
ftcd  Gods  mercies,  in  tendring  the  purchafe  of  his  KinC- 
mans  field  to  him,  when  the  King  and  Princes  o^Iudah 
had  no  alTurance  of  fo  much  pofleflion  in  the  promifed 
Land,  as  to  inherit  the  Sepulchres  of  their  Fathers  :  the 
Lord  expels  not  his  fufpenfive,  rather  then  diffident  admi- 
ration, with  fignes  a:id  wonders,  as  he  did  Gideons  dQ^bt, 
or  his  ftiffc-necked  fore-fathers  dillruft.  By  whatme^nes 
then  ?  By  the  prefent  calamities  which  had  fcized  upon 
theCitiesof/^id^j  andthat  very  place,  wherein  his  late 
.  purcha- 


Jcr.j2.4Z,43' 


.  when  we  be  exercifedwith  m^nf  Andlong  afflrl^iom,    I       5  j  5 

purchafedpofleffion  lay.  This  is  tbe  very  fcalc  o^Ieremi- 
ahs  afiurancc,  from  tbe  Lords  owtie  mouth.  Thns  faith 
the  Lo>  'ij'ke  tu  ihAVe  brouaht  all  ihU great  plague  upon  this 
people ;  fo  Vi-iH  I brin([  upon  them  alith^good  thitt  I  have  pro- 
mi/eathr/ff.  ^nd  the  fields  ^jaHhepo^e^eJin  this  lan^y-whcre- 
of  ye  fay.  It  is  d^foUte  mthout  m^n  or  bcafi.c^c.  The  depth 
of mifery  is  ufually  made  an  argu-rein  to  move  the  Lord 
with  fpeed  to  hcarc  and  fend  h  Ipc  :  a  id  this  is  grounded 
upor]  the  prom  fc  of  God  to  give  audienceto  his  chil- 
dren, when  in  their  diftrePics  thy  remember  themfelves, 
and  feeke his  face.  c^^'^J^,  nhjfeepej}  thou,  0  Lord? 
arife,  cafi  us  not  off  f«r  ever,  wherefore  hidefl  thon 
thy  faccy  and  forget tefl  cur  affi^ion  and  epprejjlon  ? 
<tAtttnd  Hvito  my  crj^  for  I  am  hrtu^ht  very  low^  deli- 
ver met  from  my  perfecutors  :  far  they  are  fironger 
then  I.  What,  that  as  vc  feele  God  to  be  true  in  his 
threats,  fo  we  may  be  afliired  he  will  not  faile  ot  his 
promifes. 

Laftly,  it  rejoyccth  in  tribulations,  and  triamplieth 
before  thevidory.  The  patient  is  glad  whcnhefecles 
his  phylickc  to  worke,  though  it  make  ficke  for  the  time; 
bccaufe  he  hopes  it  will  procure  health.  We  re/oyce.  in  at- 
flidlions,  not  that  they  are  joyous  for  the  prcknt,  but 
becaufe  they  fhall  worke  iox  our  good.  As  faith  rc/oy- 
cech,  [0  it  triumphethin  aHlirance  of  good  fucccffe  :  for  it 
fecth  not  according  to  outward  appearance,  but  when 
all  meancs  faile  it  kc«'pcth  God  in  fight,  and  bcholdeth 
him  prcfent  for  our  fuccour.  tAsfor  mce^  I-will  come  into 
thy  houfe^in  the  multitude  of  thy  mercy:  and  in  thy  feare  will 
Ivforpjip  towards  thy  holy  Temple'  I  have  tryfedin  thy 
mercy  y  my  heart  pi  all  re  Joyce  in  thyfalvatioyi.  The  right  e- 
otis  (hall compare  me  aboHt  :  for  thou  Jbalt  dealc  bountifttUy 
Tvithmee,     ' 

Thus  arc  we  to  live  by  faith  when  God  is  pleafcd  to 
exercife  us  with  afflidions  of  what  (ort  foever,  though 
heavy  to  be  borne  and  of  long  continuance.  Great  trou- 
bles of  long  durance  are  the  exerciles  of  faith,  as  weighty 

burdens' 


r-f.ii.io.i. 

Dcu5o.i,a,5 
Neh  1.7^8, 
Pr.44.2j, 14. 
rul.i4i.6. 


10.  Aa. 


Iain.  1.8,]. 
Rom.5.j,4,5. 
Hcb.ij.i  I. 


Pfal.y.7. 


Pfal.!^ 


Si  16  i 


»9- 


Pfjl.l42-7« 

TVe  mu{l  livi 
byU'nh  in  the 
heaziejl  and 
longC[t  ajjlim 
QhS, 


\ 


a-7- 


33^ 


The  a^s  of 
faith  in  thh 
cafe. 


I  Pet.i  6s 


lob.iitii. 


How  to  live  hy  Faith  in  time  of  Adverfitiey 

burdens  are  tryalls  of  ftrengch.  As  none  for  a  little  hcadacf?, 
or  for  the  ranch  of  a  pin  will  fccke  to  the  bodily  Phyfitian 
or  Surgeon  :  So  it  is  in  a  manner  with  the  foule,  whilc'l  it 
h  troubled  with  like  grievances  fpirituall.  Little  things 
doe  not  much  excrcife  our  faith,  nor  ftirrc  us  up  to  feekc 
God  *,  and  Abort  affliAions  are  foonc  forgotten.  Faith  in- 
deed defpifeth  not  the  Icaft  crofle,but  is  moft  prooved  and 
ftirred  up  in  the  grCateft.  Without  queftion  there  is 
moft  need  of  faith,  when  affli(flions  lie  the  hcavieft  ;  and 
the  more,  becaufc  Sathan  will  be  moftbufie  at  fuch  times 
to  moleft  and  trouble ;  he  wills  to  {Lew  his  power  and 
malice  when  we  are  moft  feeble.  When  God  follows  a 
man  with  one  affliction  upon  another,  and  thofe  of  great 
continuance,thenthe  Divcll  will  tempt  to  impatience  and 
defpairc,  as  if  God  tooke  him  for  his  enemy,  and  would 
not  fhe  w  compaflion  any  more.  When  the  heart  faileth, 
becaufe  of  the  multitude  of  evils  that  compaffe  us  about, 
and  God  hideth  his  face,  man  U  apt  to  conceive,  fure  God 
I  hath  forfaken  me,  and  will  not  arifc  for  my  helpe.  If 
God  did  love  me,  he  would  never  have  abfented  him- 
fefe  fo  long,  now  I  am  brought  fo  low,  in  fo  grievous  di- 
ftrefle.  How  iKould  the  poorc  foule,  weake  and  feeble  in 
it  felfe,ftand  under  this  great  weight  of  fore  affli(5lion,in- 
creafed  by  temptation  and  continuancejifitbcnot  upheld 
by  a  lively  faith  ?  The  afts  of  faith  in  this  cafe,  arc  for 
fubftance  the  fame  with  thofe  before  mentioned ;  but  for 
the  helpe  of  the  diftrcflcd  Chriftian,  who  may  be  unabU 
to  dircft  himfelf e,  I  conceive  it  not  amifTc  to  repcatc  the 
principall. 

Firft,  It  teacheth  that  many,  and  ftrong  afflidions,  of 
great  continuancejare  no  more  then  neceflary .  A  wife  Phy- 
fitian will  not  minifter  a  ftrong  potion,  where  a  lenitive 
or  gentle  matter  h  enough,  nor  put  one  dramme  too 
much  in  his  prcfcription  :  much  lefle  will  the  Lord.  Wc 
need  great  affliftiona  that  our  corruptions  may  be  fub- 
dued  within  us.  For  as  the  untamcdneffe  of  fomc  colt  is 
fuch,  that  unlefle  he  were  fore  ridden,  he  would  never  I 

be! 


tv/jofwHe  exemfed  with  mAnf  &  long  affltBt  9ns, 

be  broken,  foit  \%  with  our  rebellious  nature.  Learning 
tcjs  tjpe  Phyfitian,  that  in  healing-  Ibrre  bodily  dileafes 
the  pa,ti€nt  muft  be  kept  fo  low>  that  he  miift  be  ahnoft  pi- 
ned with  want^bcfore  a  Spring  of  better  blood  c^n  be  pro- 
cured.Faithin{lru<n:eth,thatGod  isas  it  were  forced  to 
caft  man  upon  the  bed  of  forrow;  till  his  dayes  draw  to- 
wards the  buriall,ard  his  bones  begin  to  clatter,  that  he 
might  hide,  that  is,  fupprcdb  and  remove  his  pride,  and 
cure  the  diftempers  of-  the  foulc. 

Our  aff^idions  arc  many  and  divers,becaufe  our  corrup  - 
tion«  are  many  and  of  divers  kindes,  &  fuch  as  are  not  ex- 
pelled with  one  purgation.lf  one  medicine  fit  not  our 
fore,  will  we  not  feckc  another.  What  Father  will  not 
ufe  many  remedies  tohelpethe  infirmities  of  his  Childe, 
ifone  doe  no  good  ?  Our  heavenly  Father  keepes  us  in  a 
daily  courfe  of  phyficke,  now  with  one  thing,  now  with 
another,  becaulc  we  profit  not  with  anyone  alone.When 
afflid:ions  arc  grownc  ordinary. and  ufuall,  they  move  the 
IcdCj  bccaufe  they  be  familiar ;  therefore  God  is  pleafcd 
to  alter  and  change  his  medicines,  that  they  might  worke 
more  kindly. 

Andasitisneceflary  thatafflidlionsbc  ftrong  and  di- 
vers, fo  alfo  that  they  be  of  long  continuance  :  for  growen 
^lifcafcs  are  not  haftily  removed,nor  old  fores  quickly  hea- 
led^ As  ftaincs  long  fetled  in  a  cloth,  require  much  Icow- 
ring  and  long  whiting:fo  doe  the  evills  which  have  deepe- 
ly  eaten  into  our  foule.  In  others  wc  may  behold  what 
is  needefull  for  our  felves.Thc  Pofterity  oklfraellzvidxx^z^ 
tryall  foure  hundred  yeeres.  The  elder  people  of  God 
were  all  led  captive  feventy  yeares.  By  woefiill  experi- 
CHcc  every  Godly  man  may  finde,that  being  newly  taken 
out  of  the  furrace,  he  ftandeth  in  neede  to  be  refined  a- 
gaine.  Be  our  affli(5lions  of  never  fo  long  continuance  in 
this  life,  we  are  well  a{fured,they  {hall  not  preflc  us  lon- 
ger then  finnc  doth  harbour  in  our  bofome :  And  if  faith 
be  not  overcome  and  vanquifhed  with  dayly  and  con- 
tinuall  confiifts  againft  corruption  5  why  (hould  it  faint 

Z  under 


111 


Job.33.T7,«. 
Pfal.i07,i», 


7- 


33^ 


Horv  to  Uvc  hj  Faith  in  time  of^^dverfitie. 


pfal.31.15. 

Jci.45-  '8, 
I  Ccr.  .0,1  J, 

Pfii.  103.IC, 


under  the  barthcnoHong  during  croffes.  Sinnc  is  more 
oppofitc  to  faith,  more  perillous  to  the  foulc,  then  any 
fatherly  Cbaftifcmcnts  (though  (harpe  and  cutting,) 
as  the  difcafe  is  worfe  then  the  phyfickc  miniftrcd  to 
expelUt. 

Secondly,  Faith  in  the  grcateft  extrcamities  fuggcftctb, 
that  we  are  under  the  hand  of  God,  who  corrcftcth  in  1 
mcalure,  and  for  our  profit,  who  hath  determined  the  ' 
time  and  weight  of^  our  aiBi(?lionf,  and  by  his  bkffing 
will  turne  them  to  our  good  ;  who  doth  proportion  our 
evils,  according  to  theftrength  wcbave,  or  which  he  uill 
give,n  taccordingtoourdcfervirg  J  and  alfo  continue 
our  affiiflions  in  great  wifdome,  faithfulneffe,  and  mercy. 
Even  as  the  Ph) Titian  only  can  prcfcribc  what  quantity  of 
phyfickc  is  ro  be  taken ,  with  what  change,  and  how  long 
thccourfcofdictisto  be  continued:  16  the  Lord  onely 
doth  appoint  the  meafure,  variety,  and  continuance  of 
trouble?,  wherewith  he  is  pleafed  to  cxercifeus.  Wicked 
men  cannot  fct  the  time,  nor  meafure  out  the  quantity  of 
fuchmiferics,  whereof  they  aie  inftruments  to  the  god- 
ly, for  they  w  ould  know  no  meanejuor  ever  make  an  end. 
They  may  be  fit  executioners  of  Gods  will  herein,  when 
they  befettoo,and  taken  off,  according  to  his  appoint- 
ment ;  but  unfit  determiners  what  is  to  be  inflided ,  or 
how  long  it  muft  be  endured.  Nor  are  we  our  felves  to 
appoint  the  quality  of  our  Chaftifcments ;  or  the  tcrmes 
and  feafons  wherein  and  how  long  they  fliall  be  continu- 
ed :  for  wc  would  taft  onely,  (if  at  all)  of  the  milder 
phyficke,  or  fip  but  lightly  of  bitter  potions,  when  necef- 
fity  requires  we  fhould  take  deepe.  The  patient  is  not  to 
betruftedwiththe  fearching  and  drcfling  of  his  owne 
wound,  if  painfiill  to  be  handled.  Now  ieeing  it  h  the 
Lord,  great  in  mercy,  infinite  in  wifedome,  abundant  in 
love  and  tender  in  compaflions,  who  doth  mingle  our 
cup,  why  (hould  we  fcare  or  faint  ?  lilacoh  had  held  or 
tended  lofifh  in  prifon,  would  he  have  nfed  him  roughly, 
orkept  himcverlong?  No  no*  muchleffc  will  God: 
; (who 


t\ 


tvhiit  tve  be  exercifed  mthmoitj  (jr  long  Affi6HoHs, 

(who  is  more  mcrciftill  then  any  Father,  and  more  pitti- 
fuli  then  any  Mother)  hold  us  ovcrlong,  or  dealc  rigo- 
roufly  with  us :  but  ordering  all  corredions  hy  his 
Fatherly  providence ,  hewillinhis  good  time  make 
them  worke  together  for  good,  and  not  forcvill  unto  us. 
But  the  vtry  haires  «f  jour  bead  are  alt  numbred,  Feare 
yee  mt  therefore,  jee  are  of  more  TalHCt  then  mAny  (par. 
rowes. 

Thirdly ,  faith  fettcth  a  man  about  his  worke ,  that 
iy,  feriouflyto  ir.?^ke  inquiry  into  his  heart  and  wayes; 
dcepely  to  humble  hiinfcltc  before  God ;  and  fervently  to 
intrcatmsrcy  forfinne  paft  ,  wifedomc  to  make  ufe  of 
prefcnt  mifery ,  and  favour  and  mercy  to  be  delivered 
and  fet  free.  Sinfull  men  (  if  well  advifed)  ftrike  not 
without  caufe  ••  the/u(lGod,  whrn  he  corredcth,  hath 
ever  j'uftreaibn.  And  forafmuch  as  our  confciences  for 
thcmoft  part  are  blinccd  with  ignorance  and  fclfe  love, 
or  over  clowded  with  (infuU  lufts ,  (as  looking  glafics  co- 
vered with  duft)  that  we  cannot  findc  out  of  our  fclves 
much  that  is  out  of  order,  nor  amend  what  we  efpie  to 
bcamiffc,  faith  direrteth  to  fecke  unto  God  by  hearty 
prayer ,  who  can  throughly  acquaint  us  with  our  felves, 
and  teach  us  to  reforme  what  he  would  have  us  to  amend. 
Why  doth  the  Lord  give  his  children  the  repulfe  when 
they  cry  unto  him  in  their  calamities,  but  that  he  would 
have  them  fearch  more  narrowly  into  their  courfes,  and 
more  unfainedly  prepare  thcmfelvcs  tofeeke  and  returne 
unto  him  f  And  if  they  pray  unto  him,  he  will  inftruft 
what  is  to  be  done.  He  who  will  have  finfull  men  to 
joyne  inftrudion  with  corrc(f^ion,  yea  and  puiteth  into 
man  (uch regard  of  dumbe  creicures,  that  he  will  not 
ftrikc  adoggc,  but  he  will  make  I:i;.i  f  cc,fo  well  as  he  can, 
what  it  is  for  which  he  ftriketh  him;  fliali  i..  *  he  inftru<R: 
us,  when  his  hand  is  now  upon  us  for  want  of  duty  to 
him  i* 

But  when  we  fee  our  faults,and  fmart  for  them  in  fuch 
fort  as  we  account  grievous ,  there  is  no  power  in  us,  to 

Z  2  re 


335? 


Eray49.  ij. 


Mat.io.jOjjx 


Judg.ie.ij, 


Math,!  1.2^. 


1 


^A 


340 


aGor.ii 


pfal.  40 
Pfal.SS. 


M<mto  Itvt  hy  Faith  in  time  ofxjidvirfitiey 

redreiTe  and  fet  ftraight  what  is  crooked  and  out  of  frainc. 
It  is  God  onely,  who  is  able  to  blcffe  atflidions  a  -.d  maki 
them  profitable :  wc  ot  our  fclvcs  arc  like  litrfe  children,  | 
who  being  taken  in  the  fault,and  fearing  the  rod,  promife 
to  doe  no  more,  but  prefently  forget  both  the  hult,  and 
danger.  This  we  learne  by  faith,  which  Ibundly  leflbncth 
us  to  deny  our  owne  wife  dome,  and  ftrength,  and  in  all 
purpofes,refolutions  and  endevourstobegge  wifedome  | 
and  (Vrertgth  from  God  above,  and  wholy  to  rely  upon 
his  power  and  grace.  In  vainc  (hould  iron  be  beaters,  did 
not  fire  foftdn  it :  in  vaine  (hould  afflitT^ions  (which  are 
Gods  hammer)  ftrike  on  our  hearts,  (hould  not  Gods  ho- 
ly Spiritjwhich  is  compared  to  fire^both  foFtcn  our  hearts, 
and  enlighten  us  to  fee  our  duties  towards  him,  aid  teach 
us  to  make  ufc  of  the  afflidlion  wherewith  we  aic  exer- 
cifed. 

Moreover  faith  importuneth  the  Lord  for  mercy  and 
delivcrancc.Ftfr  this  thing  1  befonght  the  Lori  thricc^that  it  - 
might  depart  from  me,  cjt-/y  times  are  in  thy  han-d  :  detiver 
me  from  the  hand  cf  mine  enemies  ^Andjrom  them  that  perfe- 
cute  me,  CMake  thy  face  to  (hine  upon  thyfervant :  fave  me 
for  thy  mercies  fake.'Be  vleaJedyO  Lord,  t9  deliver  me:  0 
j^*      I  Lord,  makehafi  to  helpe  mee,  Vnto  thee  have  I  crye^,  O 
\  Lordy  Mid  in  the  morning  J^jall  my  prayer  prevenf  'thee,  Lor'd 
yphy  cafiefi  thoH  efmyfottle,  why  hidefl  thoH  thy  face  j^etif 
met. 


.8. 
5,1^. 


4.  Aft. 

Pfal.69^19- 

Phjl.u»9. 

iCor.1.5. 


Fourthly,  Faith  raifcth  the  heart  to  cxpc«ft  abundance 
of  mercy  from  God,and  through  prayer  and  fupply  of  the 
Spirit,  to  reape  profit,  and  taft  comfort  anAyerable  to  the 
forrowes  it  hath  felt  and  endured.  Great  affliclions  make- 
place  for  abundant  mercy  from  God  to  us,  which  cannot 
be  received  without  fingular  /oy  on  our  part.  An  hard 
frolly  winter  makes  a  fruitfull  lummer  :  an  afjai(!^ed  fiate 
caufeth  a  mellow  heart.  If  our  fufFcrings  be  fromGq^, 
wemuftlooke  for  profit  by  every  trouble ,  unlefie  we 
will  deny  Gods  wifedome,  and  challenge  his  truth,  or 
fiicwour  felves,  as  if  we  were  not  his  children ,' fior 
truely 


when  m  he  exerafed^mihmAm  drlong  affitSHens, 


trucly  godly,  and  loving  .o£  God.  M  God  throw  us 
downe ,  we  ouft  vyaitv^o  bp-qon<;orted  of  him,  accor- 
ding to  the  yearcswjttcrif  in  vvc^«  felt  affiidions.  To 
fay,  wc  cannot  thiuketbaUuch  a  ttaogfiiall  ever  doe  us 
good, tbat  ever  vvc  fliall c(cape  out  otfuch i;  danger,  that 
ever  wc  Ihall  ieegood  daycs  after  thefe  ana  thelc  tryals, 
doth  a'^guc  great  wcakneflc  and  anbcliefe.  For  what  can- 
not he  make  for  our  good,  in  what  diftreflc  and  anguiih 
cannot  he  revive ,  who  caikth  light  out  ot  darkncfle,  and 
things  that  are  not  as  if  they  were ,  ir  wc  wili  give  glory 
to  hii)  Word  by  veiling  upon  it  ?  The  heart  k»orvetb  the 
ifitttrtte^e  thereof^  mdthcjlr^tTt^er  (hdU  not  meddle  with 
its  joy. 

Tl:us  lining  by  faith  in  t|HiCs  of  triaU  and  vifitation, 
doth  fit  and  pcepare  the  heart  to  thank^ulneiTc  when  light 
(hall  fhine  from  on  high ;  and  that  fo  much  the  more,  as 
our  afflictions  have  bcenc  the  fliarpcr,or  of  greater  conti- 
nuance. Returne,  O  Lord,  how  long,  and  let  it  repent  thee 
concerning  thyfervants  ;  Ofati^fie  ui  early  with  thy  mercy  ; 
that  vfe  may  re  Joyce  And  be  glad  all  our  dajes.  Tho**  haft 
tarne/forme my  mturninginto  dancing;  thou  haft  put  off" 
mjfackcloth,  andgirdedmewithgladnefecTathe  end  that 
my  glory  mayjing  praife  to  thee,  and  not  he  filent  lO  Lord  my 
Ged^  Irfill  give  thani^es  nnto  thee  for  ever.  If  one  healc  a 
trifling  difeafc,  it  neither  fo  bindcth  the  patient,  nor  com- 
mcndeth  the  Phyfician :  but  if  one  healc  us  of  fomc 
deadly  incurable  malady ,  O  wc  lay  then  wee  could 
never  have  met  with  fuch  a  Phyfician ,  not  the  like  in 
the  world  againc.  Thon  hroughteft  tu  into  the  net^  thou 
Im  ft  ajfaSiior:  upon  our  loines,  i  hsu  haft  ca»fe\  men  to  ride 
(fzer  our  heads,  ve  went  through  ftre,  and  tbr»ugh  water  ; 
but  thou  broughteft  w  out  intt  a  vntaltby  place.  I  will  goe 
into  thy  boitfe  with  burnt  Of  rings ,  /  rvtll  pay  thee  my 
vo-»?es. 

It  willbeobjedled  ,  That  in  affiii^ion  faith  fccmeth  to 
be  nioO:  wcakc,  and  corruption  moft  ftirrirag. 

And  true  it  is,  that  many  donbtfull  thoughts  afcend  inl 
•  Z  3  Chri-\ 


ill 

Pfal.90. 15, 


r  ■< 


Pfal.Sj.t?. 

1  Cor.4.6. 
Rom.4. 1 7. 
i'ro.14,10. 


Pral.jo.ii^xx. 

Pfal.3j.28. 


Pfal.tftf.ir, 

Prevention  of 
ObielliQns. 
Tbatina^i£ti3 
faith  ii  weal^e 
<(jf  corruption 
ftirring. 

I. 


-V. 


ii^ 


2. 


^'^^•»t&li'Ot  by  Faith  in  time  of\yidverfmey 


n'^^iV. 


Chriftianshcartis,  partly  becaufc  they  know  not  that  they 
arc  allowed  to  live  by  faith  in  an  atfiitflcd  ftatej  partly  bc- 
caufethey  judge  amiflc  of  their  affliftions,  taking  them  as 
argamcnts  of  wrath  and  difpleafurc,  rather  then  trials  of 
faith,andchaftitements  of  peace.    As  children  through 
want  of  wifdome  are  afraid  of  bugbcares :  fo  the  errour  I 
of  our  mindc  raifeth  great  fcare  and  doubt  of  that  which 
cannot  hurt  us  peradventurc,  might  greatly  comfort  us^if 
rightly  undcrftood.  This  miftaking  muft  be  corredlcd  by 
faith  and fpirituall  wifdome. 

True  it  is  alfo,  we  fometime  feele  more  ftirring  of  cor- 
ruption in  time  of  trouble  for  a  while,then  we  felt  before: 
but  as  Phyficke  then  expelleth  hnrrfull  humours  when  it 
worketh  upon  them,  and  maketh  us  complaine,  as  feeling 
them  more  then  when  they  were  let  alone  :  lo  doth  Gods 
Phyficke  to  the  foule,  even  while  it  is  driving  out  corrup- 
tion,k  makes  us  feelc  and  c  in  plainc  of  it  more  then  ever. 
The  like  maybe  faid  of  faith  which  we  feele  weaker 
during  the  time  of  triall :  Butftriiiingthe  Torch,  which 
fortheprefentfeemeth to  put  it  our,  maketh  it  blaze: 
Phyficke,  which  for  the  time  weakens,  doth  tend   to 
ftrengtlien  the  body  :  fhaking  the  Tree  which  feemeth  to 
loofe  the  roots,  fafteneth  them  deeper  j  and  the  fame  may 
befaidin  this  cafe. 

In  affiidions  faith  is  tried,  the  fwc^tiacffe  of  it  is  not 
fo  much  felf,  as  it  is  latent,  which  makes  us  thinke  it  to  be 
brought  exceeding  low.  The  ftrength  of  the  body  is  put 
forth  in  coilflicfls  and  burthens: felt  when  we  walke  at  cafe 
and  liberty.  A  man  may  fhew  moft  ftrdngth  in  wreftling, 
when  to  his  owne  feeling  he  difcerneth  moft  weaknefle  ; 
and  fo  it  is  in  f aith,when  the  fenfe  is  leaff,  the  power  may 
be  grcateft.  There  is  an  atfiidcd  ftrength,  "wnich  cannot 
be  felt  great,  though  it  be  fo  in  truth :  and  there  is  an  aff  i- 
dcd  faith,  which  is  not  difcerned  to  be  of  that  force  of 
which  indcede  it  is.  But  ftrength  affiidcd,  and  ftrength 
decayed^  faith  affli<S,ed,and  faith  over-whelmed  arc  much 
different. 

If 


vphenwebeexenifed  mthmanj  &l<mgafjhSihHs,    (      24? 


If  want  of  fpirituall  rcfrcfiiings  doth  .trouble   and 
breed  fcrouple  in  us ,  ,wc  fpufl:  rcfnembc?  thac  Phyfickc 
purgative  and  reftorativ  e  muft  notice  takes  a,c  ^npa^dtlx 
fame  time  :  To  admit  of  lorrowcs,  but  on  condition  that 
fpirituall  confolation  fhould  drowne  the  feeling  therc- 
ofjis  asit  were  to  wifli  fufFerings  without  fuffcring.Whcn 
God  miniftreth  for  the  prciervation  or   recovery    of 
fpirituall  health,  it  is  the  office,  ot  faith  to  recciy.e  the 
potion,  and  further  the  kindly  working  of  it.:  whi<:h 
cannot  be  done  unleflis  it  give  way  unto ,  yea,  ftirre  up 
godly  forrow,  and  wrcftle  painefuUy  to  drive  out  fuch 
corruptions,  as  God  would  have  removed  by  them. 
During battell the  Souldier  muft  cxercife  his  skill,  va- 
lour ,  and  ftrcngth  in  repelling-,  fubduing,  and  purfuipg 
the  cnemie;  his  refreihing  comes  when  the  fight  is 
ended,  and  die  fpoile  divided.    In  the   dayes   of  af- 
fiidion  faith  is  confiiding  with  doubts ,  allurements, 
corruptions  which  ihew    themfelves  ;  if  we  doe  not 
feele  thofe  fwecte  comforts  of  the  Spirit,  that  our  loulcs 
dcfire ,  let  us  waite  with  patience,  till  the  vidory  be  ob- 
tained. 

And  ifwe  would  ftirre  up  our  faith  to  believe  and  de- 
pend upon  God  in  the  dayes  of  great  tribulations,whcn  all 
mcanes  of  helpe  faile,  we  muft 

Firft,  Lay  open  our  forrow es  before  the  Lord, 
and  powrc  out  our  complaint  into  hisbofome.  Lard, 
hovf  am  I  hefet  vpith  m'lferies  ?  How  doe  my  forrowes 
incredfe    dmiy  ?  I  am  the  man  that  have  feene  affliBion 

2  the  rod  of  thine  anger.  Thou  hafi  hrought  mee  into 
rk^jfe ,  tftt  not  into  light,  CAij  heart  fainteth,  my 
firength  faileth ,  my  sk^nne  ii  made  oldy  my  Jigbt  rvaxeth 
climme yand all mj  hoMes  are  out  of  joynt.  Thoft  hafi  hed' 
ged  mee  about  that  I  cannot  get  out ,  and  made  my  chaine 
heavy.  My  Inters  and  my  friends  flatid  aloofe  from  nay 
firokej  ana  my  neighbours  fiand  afarre  of.  But  thej  that 
feeke  my  hurt  doe  multiply,  they^eake  ^ifchievous 
things^anA  imagine  deceit  aU  the  day  long,  I  am  the  re- 

Z  4  proach 


i  n 


•  Ivji  .1(1'! 


Helps  to  ftirre 
up  faith  in  deep 
affii£fionsi»ben 
all  ineam  faile. 

I. 
Pfal.jj.». 


Lam.  J.  I, X. 

pnil.'jS.  10. 
Ifal.  zj.iy, 
Lain.3.7, 


Pfal  88.8, 
Pfal.}.l, 


"f^     * 


344_ 

Pfal.  13,50. 

Plal.11.6. 

Pfal.jy.ii. 


Pfal.4*.  10. 
P&1.88.  14. 
Pfal.  lOti. 
Laaa.3.44. 


«. 


Pfal.  3  8. 18 

Kof  5.»5» 

lpral.40.1z. 


Lam.  3. 41, 
1  Sam.  241 
10,17- 

Job.40-4« 
Job  41.6. 

Pfal.49J. 


pfal.  J 1. 1. 
Pfal. 3  5. 2  7« 
Pfal.  5  4.4' 


..fH»fUH^e>hj,Fmtk.M  titm  0f\y£dverfitiey 


ft9Mch  cfmen^the  •df^ifed  tf  the  people,  the  fong  of  the 
Drttnl^rds.  FAf/ewitnfjftrssre  r-ifeif  up  Againfl  mee^  tvho 
Uj  tviniy  chitr^  things  I  never  J^etv ,  and  teare  mee  in 
pieees  wlrh  their  contiftua^  fUnders.  In  mine  aeiverfity 
they  re'yoyce,  they  gather  themfelves  together  again}  mee, 
they  revile  wtthoHt  ceafingi  they  opin  their  mouthes  wide 
again^me^  an  I  jp  are  nrt  to  bUf^heme  thy  7>[^me,  ty^i 
withafTvordittmjhoyieiPti^e  entmiet  trj^roach  mee,  tvhile  I 
they  fay  Aailj  Hnto  me,  where  is  thy  ^od,  Lord^  all  thU 
is  €ome  upon  me,  and  yet  thoHfattdefi  afarre  ojf,  and  hidefl 
thy  fetfe from  my  trouble,  t cry  unto  thee,  but  thou  hearefl 
not ;  thou  covereft  thy  felfe  with  a  cloud  that  my  p^*tyers 
fhould  not  afcend. 

Secondly,  Confcffc  our  finncs  with  hatred  and  godly 
forrow.  The  difquietneffc  of  my  heart ,  and  trouble  of 
my  flefli  arifeth  from  my  finne  :  /  will  therefore  declare 
mine  iniquity ,  I  will  be  forry  for  my  finne  :  I  will  ac- 
knowledge my  felfe  guilty  before  the  Lord.  For  innume- 
rable tvilli  have  compared  me  about,  mine  iniejdities  have 
t aken  hold  upon  me.  fo  that  I  am  not  able  to  lool^  vp  i  they 
are  more  then  the  ha  res  of  my  head,  therefore  my  heart  fai* 
leth  met.  I  have  finne  I  ,  and  rebelled,  and  thou  hafi  not 
ff^ared,  Loe  ,  J  have  finned,  I  have  done  wickedly  ^  I  have 
finned  greatly ,  I  have  done  <very  foolifitly,  "Behold ,  I  am 
^le,  'what'Jhall  I  anfwer  thee  ?  I  will  lay  my  hand  up- 
on my  mouth.  I  abhorre  my  felfe,  And  repent  in  dnfi  and  I 
ajhes,  j 

Thirdly, Take  Up  our  hearts  for  halting  through  un- 
beHefe,and  call  upnn  them  to  reft  in  the  promife  of  di- 
vine aidej  altiftancc,  a  nd  del  tverance.  tvherefore  fliould  I 
feare  in  the  dayes  of  evilly  when  the  iniquity  of  my  heeies 
fijall compare  -ntce  about ,  When  the  mighty  man  doth 
boafl  himfelfc  in  mifchiefe  ?  The  loz/ing  ksndnejfe  of  the 
Lord  endureth  at  all  tiines.  Hee  WiU  not  ^forfakc  his 
Saints  although  they  be  affliiftfidfoj^  a  fcafori;  God  is  my 
refuge,  tvho  hath  plea/ure  in  the  pro^erity  of'his  fer- 
vant,  and  will  draw  nccre  for  my  deliverance,  and  make 

haftc 


whept  reebeexewled  with  many  endlong  dffltHions, 

haftc  for  my  hclpe,  when  forro'.vcs  environ  ow  every 
fide.  When  all  fuccoarfailes,  hce  careth  for  my  foule  : 
When  my  fpirit  is  contrire,  and  my  h.art  within  me 
dcfolatc ,  he  is  at  my  right  hand  to  fufl-aine  ,  yea ,  to 
fave  my  foule.    He  will  '^de  his  mcrcifull- Saint ,  un- 
till  the  calamity  be  over-  part.  /  am  poort  and  needy , 
yet  the    Lord  thinketh   on  mte :  I  am  funke  deepe  inro 
the  mire  and  clay ,  but  his  hand  fliall  plucke  me  up  , 
he  will  fet  me  before  his  face  for  ever.   MnrvcUous 
things  hath  he  wrought  for  his  people  in  former  times. 
He  turned  the  Sea  intodry  land,  and  made  way  for  them 
through  the  midft  thereof.   He  led  them  through  fire 
and  water,  and  by  a  Itreatchcd  out  armc  brought  them 
into  a  wealthy  place.    Is   not  our  God  from  Evcr- 
lafting,  the  Holy  One,  the  fame  for  ever?  His  pow- 
er  is  infinite  ,  his  goodncfle    incomprehenfible ,    his 
love  as  great  towards  bis  Saints  no  v  as  ever  heretofore. 
He  will  fend  downe  from  heaven  to  fave  me,  he  will  de- 
liver me  out  of  many  waters.    When  I  am  hemmed  in 
on  every  fide,  the  Lord  will  provide  fome  way  for  my  cf- 
cape :  for  he  can  doe  more  then  I  am  able  to  conceive  or 
thinke.    Thou  who  htifi  fh<wed  mee  grent  and  fere  trou- 
blcs^Pmlt  <^Hicken  mee  again e ,  and  p>alt  kring  mre  ftp  a- 
^ainefrNffi  the  depths  of  the  esrth.  When  I  was  indofed 
in  the  wombc ,  my  diftreffe  and  danger  was  great ,  my 
ftre 'gth  wcakc,  my  condition  hopelefTe ;  ncvertheleffc  I 
was  (avcd  by  thy  power,  and  by  thy  providence  was 
brought  alive  into  this  world:  andfliouldl  now  doubt 
of  f hv  helpe  and  mercy,  bccaufe  in  likelihood  I  cannot  fee 
them  ?  My  fl  (h  and  my  heart  faileth :  bat  God  ii  the 
firengthofmy  heart,  and  my  portion  for  ever.  The  depths 
ofmiferyarethc  Lords  fitted  feafons  to  refcue  his  af- 
flided  onef.Mercilelfc  men  will  fhcw  compaflion  in  great 
extremity  :  and  fhall  not  the  Lord,  who  is  rich  in  mercy 
and  loivingkindnelVe,  extend  his  favour  to  me  when  I  am 
ready  to  peri(h  ?  Sitrelj  his  falvation  »  mgh  them  that 
feare  him. 

Fourthly, 


345 


Pfal.  ll.I  I,Tf 

Pfal.  3  4. 1 8. 
Pfal.n.  17,18 

Pfil  40. 17, 

prii.  41.11. 


Pfil.65,6. 
ffal.77.14,1  y 

Vh\.66.i  tjir 
Hab.i.ii. 


Pral.f7?. 


Prjl.71.20. 


Pfal. 21.9^10. 


Pfal.  7}.  25. 


,>fil.8f.9. 


34^ 
4. 

Pfal.«o.7. 
Pfal.55.l6. 


i  Pfal.i4J.7>8' 
Pfal.55.1,2,3 


PfaL3  5.i7. 


Pfal.40.11, 
Vcrfe  13. 

Pfal.86.i4,M 
16. 


Ffal.8^.  4«. 


Pfal.56.46. 


Dan.  It.  I. 


Horv  to  U've  b^  Fdith  in  time  ofjd'ver/tty, 

Fourthly,Importunetbe  Lord,  and direft  thy  fappli- 
cations  before  him.    In  the  day  of  my  trouble  1  reiU  eatl 
ufon  thee ,  for  thou  wilt  dufwer  wee.  He  Are  me  fpeedily^ 
O  Lord^  mj  Jpirit  faileth,  hide   not  thy  face  from  mse^ 
lefllbelikettntothenithAtgoe  dowtte  into  the  pit.  Caufe 
mee  to  he  are  thy  loving  kjndne^e  in  themorningyfor  in  thee 
doeltrnji.  'Deliver  me  from   mine   enemies:  I  fiie  unto 
thee  to  hide  mee.  Lord^  how  long  wilt  thoH  looks  */"'''  ^^* 
miferies  of  thy  fervanty  and  keepe  ftlence :  re f cue  my  foule 
from  the  dejiruBio»  of  the  adverfary  ,  my  darling  from 
the  Lions  :  withhold  not  thou  thy  tender   mercies  from 
mee ,  0  Lord,  let  thy  loving  kjndnejfe  and  thy  truth  conti- 
nually pre  ferve  mee.    Bepleafed,  O  Lord ,  to  deliver:  me : 
O  Lordy  makehdfi  to  helpe  mee.  O  God y  the  proud  are 
rifen  againft  me ,  and  the  a^emhlies  of  violent  men  have 
fought  after  my  foule ,  and  have  not  fet  thee  before  them.^ 
But  thou,  O  Lordy  art  a  Qoufull  of  compaffion  and  gra- 
tious,  long'fujfering  and  plenttotu  in  mercy  and  truth  :  O 
turne  unto  mee,  and  have  mercy  upon  mee ,  give  thyflrength 
unto  thy  fervant ,  and  fave  the  fonne  of  thy  handmaide. 
How  long  Lord,  wiit  thou   hide  thy  felfe  for  ever  ?  fi;all 
thy  wrath  Burne  like  fire  f  Remember  thy  former  loving 
kindneffes  which  have  becncof  old ;  remember  that  I  am 
butduft,and  that  my  dayes  paffe  away  like  a  fhadowi 
remember  the  reproach  of  thy  fcrvant ,  w  herewith  I  am 
reproached,  of  them  that  dwell  round  about;  where- 
with the  ungodly  and  prophane  have  reproached  thy  pare 
Religion,  and  blafphemcd  thy  holy  Name.   Lord  looke 
upon  mine  af  fli(JtioHj  and  my  tcares :  for  I  am  brought  ve- 
ry low.                    .             ■    •■  ■    V     i  .  '   ■',  -    ••'^'*     ^  ■•■'•■    • 
Fihly,  Quicken  thy  refolution  to  truft  in  the  Lord,  at 
all  times,  even  when  all  other  refuge  failetb,  and  none 
(licwes  himfelfe  for  thy  helpe.  fVhat  time  I  am  in  trou- 
ble  Iwilltrufl  in  God:  for  he  (hall  rcdcemc  my  foule. 
He  is  the  God  of  my  falvation ,  who  will  fend  dclive-, 
ranee  to  his  people  in  the  lowcft ,  extremity ,  and  vouch-  i 
fafe  mercy  to  his  chofen,  above  all  they  cxpcd  and  looke 
, for. 


I 


fromifes  of  earthly  blej?.ngs,^c, 

for,mmoft  convenient  feafon.  I  cried  unto  the  LorcL  in 
the  day  «/  my  calamity ,  and  my  prayer  entred  into  his 
eares  :  therefore  will  I  trufi  in  him  oi  long  as  I  live.  Lord 
Iwill  waite  forthyfalvation,efl;abli{h  my  heart  in  thy 
truth,  that  I  be  not  moved. 


-   r 


S47 


CHAP.  VIII. 

fVhat  it  is  to  live  by  faithtcuchingthe  frcmi/es  cf 
earthly  hlejpngs,  tempora/lprojperitjy  and 
good Jticce^e  in  the  things  that 
Tvegoe  about, 

THc  Lord  our  God ,  knowing  that  earthly  blcf- 
fings  be  fo  neceflary  for  the  maintenance  of  this  life, 
that  we  cannot  be  without  them ,  hath  of  his  infinite 
bounty  and  free  grace  undertaken,  and  promifed  to  make 
competent  provifion  for  his  children ,  that  being  freed 
from  the  cares  and  troubles  of  thefe  things  below,  they 
might  with  greater  frecdomc  attend  upon  his  fervice,  and 
with  more  chearefulneflc  run  the  race  of  Chriftianity.  O 
feare  tbi  Lord  jee  his  Saints :  for  there  is  no  want  to  thetn 
that  feare  him.  The  young  Lions  doe  lache  and  fuffer 
hunger  :  but  they  that  fee ke  the  Lord  Jh all  not  tvant  any 
good  thing,  Truflintke  Lord  and  doe  good  y  Jo  Jhalt  thou 
dwell  in  the  Ian  iy  andverihthoHfloalt  befed.  "Delight  thy 
felfe  alfo  in  the  Lord,  and  hi  fhall  give  thee  the  dejires  of 
thine  heart.  The  meeke  fhall  inherit  the  earth  ,  and  fhall 
delight  themfelves  in  the  abundance  of  peace.  The  mee^e 
fhall  eate  and  be  fatidfled.  Tor  the  Lord  God  is  a  funne  and 
Piield :  the  Lord  will  give  grace  and  glory  :  no  good  thing 
Tvill he  with'hold  from  them  that  walke  uprightly,  ^leffed 
is  every  one  thatfeareth  the  Lord  :  that  walk^th  rn  his  waies. 
For  thou  Jhalt  eate  the  labout  of  thy  hands,  happy /halt  thou 
be^andit  fhaU.  be  "Vfell  with  thee,  1  will  abundantly  blejf:- 

her 


Pral.yj.itf. 
57. 


GoJhathmaJe 
minyprornifcs 
of  earthly  blef 
f*V* 


Pfal. 


H'fjio. 


P^^l.37-J,4. 

Pr.1l.34.ii, 


Pfil.128  r,i. 


348 

Match.6.j3. 


6.3. &  12.25, 

18. 

PlO.lI.2I. 


Dcut.f.  jj. 

ExoJ.»«.i2. 

Dcuc.15.15. 

pral.34,12,13 


Pro.j.t,*. 
Veife  1 6. 
Pro.  1 4. 10. 
I  Pro.9.ii.& 
10.27. 
Pfal.9M^« 
I  King. 3. 1 4» 


Exod.i5.i6,& 
23.25. 
Deut.7.15' 
Pral.103.  3. 

pro.3.7,  8.  5c 

4.  i2. 

Efay  53.i5>l^« 

Vcrfc  24. 

Job.  17.9. 

Pfal.29.1 1. 
Deut.8.i8. 
Pfal.i03.5. 


what  it  is  to  live  bj  Faith  t6Hch:ng  the 


her provijion  :  /  w'tHfAtiifie  her  foore  with  hre^d.  Seeh  jee 
firft  the  kingdome  of  god  and  hu  rightecu/Meff,  aKdd/i  thefe 
ihinis  Jhali  be  kidded  ttnt9  y»n.  This  is  that  which  is  io  oft 
repeated.  *  ThM  It  may  goe  well  vrtth  thee  in  the  Und^  which 
the  Lord  thy  God  fiveth  thee. 

In  fpcciall  the  Lord  promireth  length  of  daycs,  Health, 
ftrength,  wealth,  Favour,  peace,  Joy,good  xLicceflejfafcty, 
good  Name  :  and  all  thcfe  not  oncly  to  the   righteous 
themfelvesjbut  to  their  children  and  poftcrirv.  7oh  Jhall 
rv4lke  in  all  the  wayes  which  the  Lord  yohy   Cyd  hath  cem- 
mandedyoH,th4t  jt  may  live^andthat  it  fn^iy  he  roell  with  jeu, 
C^  that  jou  may  prolongjehr  dajes  in  the  Li.'idwhichyoti  (haU 
^  pofejfe.  what  man  H  he  that  defireth  life i  c^ftdlcveth  many 
dayeSy  that  he  may  fee  good  ?  Keepe  thy  tongns  pom  eviil^and 
thy  lips  from  jpeaking  q^uile,  Afyfonneftrget  not  my  law^but 
let  thine  heart  ksepe  my  C*m:ftar.dements:For  length  of  day  (s 
and  long  life  and  peace  J^aH  they  ^tdde  to  thee.  Length  ffdayes 
is  in  her  right  hand-^^  in  her  left  hand  riches  ana  hsmtir.By 
i  me  thjdayesfhaS  be  multiplied,^  theyeares  of  thy  life/halbe 
1  increafed  IVith  long  hj^  xviH  I  fatufe  him ;  andfhew  him  my 
falvationjfthou  wilt  di^igrnily  hearken  w/fto  the  voice  of  the 
Lsrdthj  Cod^andwtlt  doe  that  which  is  riqht  in  hit  fight yand 
wilt  give  eare  to  his  CcmmandrmentfyandkeeptaO  his  Ba- 
tfttes,  I  will  putt  none  ofihcfe  dijeafes  upon  thee,  which  I  have 
brought  upon  the  Egyptians^/o*-  L  am  the  Lord  that  heaUth 
thee,  Feare  the  Lor  a  and  d'  cart  from  evi/l;  It  JhoA  be  health 
tothynavill  and  marrow  to  thy  &«nes.  Hee  that  rvalketh 
righteoyjlji  andjpeakfth  uprtfh/Vy  he  that  defpifeth  thegaine 
of  oppreffions ^that piakfth  hit  hayids  from  holding  of  bribes^ 
tkatjifippeth  his  earfsfrtm  heari^f'  ofhhad,  ^  Jhuttfth  his 
eyes  from  feeingeviUiHe  JhaU  dn  til  onhi^h  hit  place  of  de- 
fence rhal  be  themunitiom  of  rockci  bread  JhaU  be  given  him, 
hit  waters  flial  h^  fure  .And  the  inhabit  ant  p  all  not  fay  I  am 
fie^e^The  tighteom  fhallholdonhiswajy  and  he  that  hath 
eleane  hands  (ball  beftronger  an^jlrongerj  he  Lord  wiB give 
Strength  nnto  his  people.  The  Lord  wiUbleffe  /  <>  peofle  with 
peafc.  It  ii  the  Lord  thy  God  that  givetb  thee  power  to  get 
.  wealth, 


•prornifes  of  eA>'thly  biepngs,  drc. 


wealfhyfhat- hemay  eftahltJhhi^covenMnt  vnhich  hce  ftvar^ 
unto,  rhf    Falhsrs.-HonoHrihe  Lord  mtlr  tiy  finififinct^, 
Mfidif^itlytfie ^rjifrmtr'cf  aH  thine  ificrea.fe  :  S9  -fhatl  thy 
(^arvtahjiitedrvithfl&nty.andthyfrt^es  fhall   bwfl   Sin 
with  new  tri fie.  Riches  kftd  honour  are  i^ith  mee ,  yea  du- 
rable riches  aKdrinhtfoufnejfe.Myfruite  is  Better  then g' Id, 
mdmy  revenue  then  choycejlher.  In  the  houfe  of  the  righ- 
teciu  ismfichtreafpirv.  B/e(ffdis'tjhe  man  that  feareth  the 
Lerdthctt  delight cth  (greatly  it*  his  Commandemrnts.f^''eAlth 
and  riches  p.ak  he  in  his  hoftfe  :   and  his  righteoufiujfe  endu- 
rtthfor  ever.   Ifthott  retMrne  to  the  Almighty .fhoti  fhdlt  be 
built  up/i.  oufljalt  put  away  init^nlty  far  from  thy  taherriAcles: 
ThenfijaltthoH  lay  up  gold  as  dufi,  and  the  gold  of  Ophyr 
a£  th&,Jlonfs  of  brool^e-s  :  yea,    the   tyilmi^hty  fjaH  bee 
thy  defence^  and  thou  /halt  have  plenty  of  ft  her.  KAnH  Cjod 
is  able  to  make  all  (trace  abound  totvarh  jou,  that  yee,  aU 
rvayes  havirnr  allfufficiency  in  all  things  ^may  abound  to  every 
good  worke.  JVith  all  thy  getting  get  tttiderflanding :  (xa.lt 
her,  and Jhee jhail^rontot&  thee ,'  'fh^ePfaU  brin£  thvc  to-  ho- 
tjoHr,  when  thou  doefl  embrac^her,    ^hie  fh  ail  give  to  t4}ine 
he  a^  an  ornament  of  grace  ^  a  croyvne  of  ghry  fhall  pyee  de- 
liver  to  thee.  So  (hdlt  thou  finde  favour,  ant  food  under  flan 
din  gin  the  fight  of  God  and  mar*.  Then  Jh^lt^  thou  wali^  in 
thevfayfafely,Mncl  thy  fo&te  -fhall   nit^-^fiumble.  Who  fo 
bearkfncthu^t^meefittli  ^tv^llfafily^^an'Ji  Jh^ll  bee  ajttiet 
fromfcareofevill,    ^ecttufe'  thvu  ' ha^  'fka^e   the    Lord^ 
which  if  r»y  refuge  ^  even  the  mofh    high,    thy   habitation. 
There  (haH  no  eviR b'faff  thee-^  neither.  fljaU  any  f^gne  come 
nigh  thy  dive  King.  Th'ou/h^tbM'ji'i  froi^  the  fck)  urge  of  the 
tongue  ;  neither  (huhthon  be  afraid  ofdelfruHion  when  it 
eammeth.  At  --'efh-fiEH^n  it^d famine fhalr  thou^  laugh,  nei^ 
therjha/t  thou  he  afraid  »fths-  beajfs  of  the  earth.  And /mil 
givep'oce  in  the  lan(C.(^yefhnJl He  downc  ^  none  fjaU nrake^ 
yoH  afraid!  Torthotfjkali-Bt  in  lfitg'He"n^l^  the-^nej  of  the 
field  i  ofid^he  beafis  of^thVfi'eU'jhAJX'^at'  prace  vrithtBer, 
J^'^H'it  thim  -wnyes  ffl^4fi-  'ifi^^^'Ijiti\  he  ma^eth^h^in 
hi^eiveimti  ttr  bet  'at  pe-atr  wrtb^lm:  Tf^em  that  honour 


349 


wr. 


Pro.  J. 9, 10. 


\o. 8.18,19. 


Pro.  I  '<;.  6, 

t'l.il.iij.ijj. 


Job.z2.2j,  24. 

kr.51.1a. 
2  Cor.9.8,^. 


Pi-o.4.g^,9, 


Pro.?  4. 
Vcrfc  2  J. 
Pro.i.j  j. 


PI.1l, 


pi.9,  10. 


Job.?. 


21,1: 


Levi 5  6, 

job.5.23. 

Pro. 16,6. 
I  Sim. J  30, 


cP-  \ 


350 


Pro. I 0.7,* 
pfal.ni.^. 
pro.  15.18. 
•  Pro.  lo.  6. 
Pfal-if. 
i>pfal.nz.i,»» 


Pfal.2f.iZji3 
Pro.  ii.zi. 


Pro.14. 10. 

Pro.zo.7. 
Job.y.aj. 


^/^4J  f>  jf  to  live  by  Faith  tmching  the 


ItuneceJ/ary 
t»  believe  tiofe 
promife:. 
I. 
Hcb.l3.^ 


nte  ^  I  vfiiH  honour .  And  hcc  Jhali  brtng forth  thj  righteomf- 
ne^e M  the  light  y  A}i.' tl'j  judgement   as    the    itoone  dny. 
The  rvife  JhsU  inherit  glory.  The  memory  of  the   lu^   u 
hle^ed-^  the  righteous  fia/lh  in  everUfling  remembriincc, 
Heethdtreggrdeth  reproofe  (hall  ke  honoured,  »  'Bkjftngs 
are  upon  the  heMdcf  the   /«/?;  and  whatfoever   hee  tloib 
fhail proffer,  b  'Blejfed  ii  the  m^n  that  feareth  the  Ltrdy 
^c,  hii  feede  (kail bt  mfi^hty    upon   earth,  the  geMtratian 
of  the  upright:  ffjyMbe  bie^ed.  What  man  is  hee  that  feareth 
the  Lord  ?  him  {hall  he  teach  in  the  way  that  hee /bail  chufe. 
HisfouleJhAll  dwell  at  eafe  y  and  his  f cede  fhall    tnherite 
the  earth.    Though  hated  joyre  in  handy   the  wic\cd  jhall 
Kot  be  unptinijfjed  y  but  the  fede  of  the  righteous  jhall  bee 
delivered.Inthefeare  of  the  Lord  j  is   fir  org  confidence: 
AT:dhis  children  fhall   have   a  fiace    :>f  refuse.    The  lufi 
man  n'alk^th  in  his  integrity:  his  chilarcn  are   blefed  af- 
ter him.    Thefe  and  fuch  like  be  the  promifcs  concerning 
tcmporaUbleflingSiWhichGodofhis  infinite  grace  and 
love  hath  made  to  the  faithfull  and  their  pofterlty,  that 
we  might  live  by  faith,  quietly  fubmitting  our  fclvcs  to 
the  good  plcafare  ofGod  in  thcfe  things,  and  cxpeding 
from  him  in  due  feafon  fuch  rcliefe  as  fliall  be  moft  expe- 
dient. 

This  is  neceffary ;  for  faith  in  thefe  promiles  doth  kill 
covetous  dcfires,  diftrufttuU  and  diftrading  cares.  Let 
jetir  converfation  bee  without  coveteufnejfe  j  and  bee  content 
yvith  (uch  things  as yee  have.  For  he  hath  f aid,  I  wi/l  ne- 
ver leave  thee^  nor  for  fake  thee,  Man  is  privy  to  his  want 
of  earthly  blcflings ,  and  will  never  cealc ,  with  cx- 
ceflivc  care,  diligence  ,  and  vexation  to  hunt  after  tbem, 
till  he  come  to  know  that  God  will  provide  for  him. 
When  one  bath  great  friends,  which  they  are  knowne  to 
leaneupon,  we  fay  of  them,  Such  neede  take  no  care, 
they  know  fuch  and  fuch  will  fee  to  them.  On  the  con- 
trary, come  to  one  who  knowes  no  endoftoyling  and 
caring,aske  him,  why  will  you  thus  tyre  your  felfc  out.? 
He  will  anfwer,  I  muft  needs  doe  it,  I  have  none  but  my 

fclfe 


m 


frojniftsofexHhly  blepngSj  (^c. 


351 


1  Pet  j.y. 


2. 


fclf c to truft  to.  SoChrift  followeth  his  Difciplcs  care-j  M^-^.^o,  ji 
fulncflc  to  this  doore,  their  unbclicfej  which  aid  not  Ic: 
them  confidei- out  heavenly  Father  cared  foft^cm.  No 
prefect  eftate,  f  though  never  ib  great)  can  free  the  heart 
fromdiftrsftion,  becsufe  k  is  fuhjcd:  to  decay  and  vanifTi: 
we  fliall  never  caft  the  b  rden  of  care  oft  our  ownc  fhoul- 
ders,  till  we  learne  by  ^aith  to  caft  it  upon  the  Lord,  whole 
eye  is  over  us  For  go*  >d. 

He  will  never  renounce  carnallfupports,  who  makes 
not  God  the  (lay  ot  his  funic  for  outward  things.  He  will 
truft  in  the  abundance  of  his  riches,  wifdome,  friends,  or 
ftrength,  that  makes  rot  God  his  llrength.  The  heart  ofj  P^^'-5*-7. 
man,  being  privy  to  his  inability  to  fuftainc  hioifelfc,  if  he 
be  not  uudcrlet,  vill  feeke  out  loine  prop,  true  or  falfc, 
found  or  rotten,  to  lea ne  unto.  They  will  goc  downe  to 
t^"^7pr  for  helpe,  and  (lay  on  horfes,  and  truft  in  Chari- 
ots,  becaufe  they  arc  many,  and  in  horfemen.becaufe  they 
are  very  flrong,  who  lookc  not  to  the  holy^one  of  I/raeM, 
feeke  not  the  Lord. 

Beliefe  in  God  brings  good  fucccfle.  The  Lord  will  be 
intreatcd  to  fhowre  his  bleffings  plentifully  upon  them, 
that  put  their  truft  in  him.  Believr  in  the  Lord  your  Goify  (0 
Jhalljee he efitiblijhed-.believe his  Prcphrts  fe  fbalye projper. 
Men  arc  afliamed  to  falfific  the  truft  that  is  repofed  in 
them  :  And  ftial.  the  Lord  fruftratc  the  defire  of  them, 
that  hope  in  his  mercy. 

Ifwe  cleave  not  to  the  promifes  of  God  made  con- 
cerning temporall  things ,  we  fhall  adhere  to  the  pro- 
mifes of  life  with  lefle  aflurance.  Both  promifes  flow 
from  one  fountaine,  even  Gods  everlafting  love,  arc  fta- 
bliflied  in  the  fame  mediatour ;  and  received  by  the  fame 
faith  :  yea  the  promifes  of  life  everlafting  (as  more  fpiri- 
tuall  and  furthcft  removed  from  fence)  are  in  themfelves 
more  difficult  to  be  believed ;  fo  that  cur  affurance  of 
them  cannot  be  greater,  then  is  our  confidence  in  God 
for  the  other  which  conterne  this  life,fo  farre  as  he  feesh 
it  to  be  for  our  goodj  and  the  glory  of  his  great  name, 

if 


ECxy  Jl.ijSc 


iCliro.io.to. 
1  Chro.f.io. 
»Chro.t5.7j* 


2,  Cor.  t.  to. 


^.J' 


^5> 


Pfal.  116,11^ 
Ffal.ji.air 


What  it  k  tf  U^ibj  ^Pnith  t§ftch:n?;  tht 


Markc  10.  24. 

Pro.  10  if. 
=  PfaUx  ip. 
I  fro,  3  0.8  39. 


Theg9d!yare 
alioroetltt  live 
hy faith  oi  tsu- 
ehingthefe  pro- 
mifei. 

I. 
Rom. 8, 5  J, 
Efay  7.1  V. 


if  wc  b6  inftrudlcd ,  cxercifed ,  and  a0aulccd  in  both 
alike.      ,:. 

,  Cbriftihis  are  oft  affaiUrcd  touching  thcfe  promif^Sjand* 
many  vertuo«s  and  godly  men,  not  duly  confid&ring,  arxl 
embracing  tbemby  fai;h,arc  much  perplexed  in  thcm- 
{clwcs.I fatdin mj haft(iiiid  D^-z/ii^wbcnhefied  iromSaf*/ 
and  his  heart  began  to  faint)  4// w^«/«r<?  /yars  ;  even  the 
prophetSjWho  told  me  I  {hould  be  king.have  deceived  me* 
DidrHftiii'thc  temporall^proftnires  of  God,  hath  driven 
thehithfuUtomany  hard,(fangerous  fliifts,  and  becnc  the 
occalion  otdivers  (lips  and  fomc  dangerous  Falls.  The  ex- 
amples o^ Abraham,  ^avidya.[\d  many  others,  together 
^  with  daily  expcricncein  all  places,  doe  fufficicntly  tcftifie 
itfaustmichk.  '-,,;.'  ■  ;  •  .1  •  ^    - 

! .  .t  Faith  fwcetenech  and  fan(5i;ificth  unto  us  the  nfe  of  all 
i  outward  comforts  under  our  hands.  Meate,  apparell,  ri* 
.  ches,  honours  (though  lawfully,  campafled  and  in  abun- 
dance pcfflciTed-)  yeeld  but  a  fowtfitJait  in  comparifon,  are 
but  of  (mall  profit,  when  they  be  not  ufed  in  faith.  Nay, 
,  ble{Iings,;nQ"t received  and  iifel'in  fattb,  become  Idols^  or 
'Occafiocsof  Idolatric :  for  either  we  truft  in  them,  or  b« 
hfted  up  in  our  felves  by  reafon  of  them.  The  rich  MAns 
wealth  is  his  ftrongdty'.  hQTS]Qyczth\t\  his  riches,  and 
hath  in  histhougbtstodoc  great  matters  by  them. iS?/^^^^ 
veither  povcrtj.nor,y:ichej yfe^de  me  with f gods  coavenitnt  for 
me:  Lefi  I  be  full.  And  denie  thee,  and  pty  ^  rvho  is  th^ 
Lord,  ,    . 

The  godly  are  allowed  to  live  by  faith  touching  thefe 
temporallpromifes,  andthelandlihcd  nfc.of  Gods  blel- 
■fings  which  they  enjoy.  For  feeing  God  hath  given  Chrift 
for  us,  as  the  Apoftlc  reafoneth  :  how  fhall  he  not  with 
him  alfo  freely  g^ive  us  all  things.He  hath  given  his  Sonne, 
thefountainc  of  all  good  things :  what  is  it  then,  that  he 
will  denie  unto  us  ?  The  promife  of  Chrift  before  his  in- 
carnation was  to  the  IeT»es  a  fealc  ;of  all  tcmporall  good 
things  promifcd.  But  we  know  God  hath  given  hisSonnc, 
I  not  onely  to  be  borne,  but  to  diz  for  us :  which  is  an  un- 
'  doubted 


fromifes  iff  earthly  hleffmgs,^c» 


doubted  token,  that  he  will  denie  us  nothing  that  may  be 
for  our  good  ard  comfort. 

The  Lord  by  covenant  hath  promifcd  to  furnifli 
his  people  with  all  need  full  bleillngs  pertaining  to  this 
life.     Hee  that  feat  tereth  Ifracl  mil  gather  him,  and  keefe 
him  Oi  ajheapheard  doth  hisfiecke.    For  the  Lord  hath  re- 
deemed  Jacob,   attd  ranfomed  him  from  the  hand  cf  him 
that  Vios  jironger  then  hee.     Therefore  they  fhallcome and 
Jing  in  the  height  of  2ion,  and  Jhall fl$T9  together  to  the 
goodnefje  of  the  Lord,  for  wheat,  and  for  wine,  and  for  oj/Ie, 
and  for  the  young  of  tkeflocke,  andtf  the  herd :  their  f oh  le 
pyallbee  as  a  watered  garden,  and  they  fljall  not  forrow  any 
more  at  all.  tyind  I  will  fatiate  the  foule  cf  the  prtefls 
with  fat nejfe,  and  my  fecfle  fjall  bee  (aiitfed  with  goo d- 
r>ef[e,  faith  the  Lord.    I  will  make  with  them  a  covenant  of 
peacey  and  will  caufe  the  eviU  beafts  to  ceafe  out  of  the  Land : 
and  they  Jhall  dwelt  fafely  in  the  wilder nejfe  andjleepe  in  the 
woods,    eyfnd  I  will  make  them  ^  and  the  places  roHud  nbeut 
my  hill  a  blefftng,    and  J  will  caufe  the  Jhowre  to  come 
downe  in  hiifeafon  :  there  fbaR  bee  fjowres  ofhlcffmg.    And 
the  tree  of  the  field  poa&yee  Id  her  frnite,  and  the  earth  fhall 
yeeld  her   increafe,  and  they  Jhall  bee  fafe  in  their  landy 
and  JljaU  kpowthat  /am  the  Lor^  :  I  will  call  for  corne, 
andinereafe  it,  and  lay  no  famine  upon  you.   And  I  will  mul- 
tiply the  fruit  cfthe  tree,  and  the  increafe  of  the  field;  that  ye 
pjall  no  more  receive  reproach  of  famine  among  the  heathen, 
I  will  even  betroth  thee  ftnto  me  infaithfulnejfe,  and  thou 
fhalt  know  the  Lord,    And  it  fj  all  come  to  pajfe,  in  that  day  I 
will  heare,  faith  the  Lord,  I  wi II  heare  the  heavens ^  and  they 
JhaU  heare  the  earth,  and  the  earth  fl;aU  heare  the  come, 
and  the  wine,  and  the  oylc.   Now  feeing  the  Lord  hath 
by  promifc  and  covenant,  againe  and  againc  repeated  for 
our  confirmation,  aii'ured  us  of  all  needful!  blcflings,  it 
is  our  duty  by  faith  to  make  thefc  promifes  our  ownc,  and 
reft  quietly  upon  his  word,  to  finde  reliefe  at  fuch  time, 
and  in  fuch  mealure,  as  he  knowes  to  be  expedient,  and 
may  be  for  our  good. 

A  a  And 


355 


3. 


10,11, 


Verfc 


J  4. 


Erck.34.2y^ 


E2ck.36.l5, JO 

&  34.29. 


Hof.i.atiii. 

22. 


-x-c)'- 


354 


I  Pet  4.1  •• 

I  Fctl^r. 

Pfal.zj.i. 


EMk34.ii,X3 


Vcife  14. 


Mat.6.3i,5i. 


Pfal.  104,27. 
Pfal.i45.15', 
16, 

Pfal.147.'. 
lob.  3  8,4 1. 

Maah.6.z^. 


I  Dent  31.9. 
|[cr.  10. 16. Sc 


,  what  it  is  to  live  bj  Faith  tOMhing  the 

And  this  w<r  may  the  rather  be  incouraged  uito, 
confidcri'ig  the  relarion  which  is  betwixt  God  andu, ; 
for  he  is  our  Faithfull  creator,  wee  the  works  of  his 
hands  :  hce  is  oar  Shcpheard  ,   wee  the  flocke  of  his 
pa'tiire  :  he  '\s  oar  Fachr,  we  his  childre.).    Let  them 
that  fujf'f'  accor'ing   to   the   roi/l  of  Go'^y    commit  the 
kteping  of  their    foules    to  him    in  well-iohg  y    as  unto 
a  faithfttU  CreiXtour.      Cad  all  your  ca>^e  upon  him^  for 
hee  careth  for  yon.     The  Lord  is  my  jh^epheard,  I  pj^ll 
not  want.     »^;  a  fheepheardfeeketh  out  his  flockf  in  the  dajy 
that  hee  is  among  his  j7jeepe  that  are  fcattered:  fo  will  I 
feehe  out   tny  fljcepe,    and   will  deliver   them   out  of  all 
places,  where  they  have  beene  fcattered,  in  the  cloudy  and 
dari^e  day,    ^nd  I  will  br'imr  t^em  out  from  the  people, 
and  gather  them  from  the  co'^ntries,  and  will  bring  them 
to  their  owne  land,    and  feede  thetn  upon  the  motintaines 
of  Ifracl  by  the  river Sy  and  in  all  the  inhabited  places  of 
the  country    I  wilt  feede  them  in  a  good  pajlure  an<i  upon 
the  high  mo^ntaines  of  Ifrael_/7;^//  their  fold  be  ;  there  jhaU 
they  lie  in  a  good  feliy  and  mafat  pafiureJJj^ill  they  feed 
upon  the  m^untaincs  of  Ifrael.    Take  no  thoughty  fayingy 
what  ^mU  we  eate  f  or  what  [hall  we  drin^e  ?  or  wherewith 
fhall  we  be  clothed  ?  for  jonr  heavenly   Father  hnoweth 
that  yee  have  neede  of  all  thefe  things .      God  is  the  great 
Father  of  the  family,  who  providethall  things  necelT^ry 
for  them  that  be  under  his  governeraent.  The  eyes  of  all 
watte  upon  thee  ^  thougivej}  them  their  meate  in  due  feafon. 
Thou  openejl  thine  handy  andfatiifrefl  the  defire  of  every  li- 
ving thing.   lie giveth  to  the  beafi  his  foodyitn  'to  the yotinv 
ravens  which  cry.    It  is  his  property,  who  is  the  chicfe 
\  good,  to  communicate  his  bleiTings  unto  his  creatures  : 
much  more  ro  compaffe  them  with  mercy  that  depend  up  • 
0,1  him.    He  hath  p.it  this  naturall  affs'ilion  into  Parents, 
nay,  into  bruite  bea^ls  to  tender  their  young  ones;&  Hiall 
not  he  much  more  provide  for  th^-rn  that  crieuntohini 
:  day  and  nig'u  for  r  liefe  and  fuccour  ?  The  Lords  portion 
\  is  bis  people  j  Jacob  is  the  lot  of  his  inheritance  .\  and.  God 

is 


frcmifes  of  earthly  blefjings,dii.c.. 


is  the  portion  of  his  people  ;  He  bath  chofcn  them,  and 
they  have  given  themfelves  to  him  :  they  relie  upoh 
bim^  and  he  bath  undertaken  to  make  plentiful!  provjlion 
for  them.  The  Lord  is  my  porticM,  faith  myfcnle^  therefore 
veill  I  hojie  in  htm.  The  Lord  is  the -portion  of  mine  inheri- 
tance,  afidofmycup  ;  thou  ntAintawcfi  mj  lot.  The  lines 
are  fallen  unto  r»ee  in  pleafant  places  :  yea,  I  have  a  goodly 
hcritti^e. 

The  Lord  by  his  fpeciall  providence,  will  make  that 
prosperous  unto  the  righteous  which  they  poflcfle,  be  it 
liit'c  or  much.  Thtre  is  nothing  httcr  for  a  man,  then,  that 
he/houidfAC  anddrviks  ^t^dthat  hefhouldmnke  his  foule  en-  j 
joy gGcdir.  his  lahoHry  This  alfo  ffaw,  that  it  was  irom  the 
han:l  ofGod.  And  this  gift  tb:e  Lord  freely  gives  to  the  man, 
whom  be  doth  approve:?'^  the  man  that  is  good  in  his  fight 
God  ^izrthwif dome,  andkjiowlcd^e,  andloy,  (to  wic)  to 
p.athcr  and  ufe  earthly  blcflings  with  delight  and  comfort. 
The  revenues  of  the  righteous  arc  imiallmany  times,  but 
their  ftate  is  comfortable  :  for  the  little  that  the  righteous 
man\]2iih,is  better  then  mtich  riches  of  many  and  mighty  w'/f- 
kedoneSyVJho  P.ow  in  wealth,and  excell  in  power.  Better 
is  a  little  with  thefeare  of  the  L"rd  then  great  treafftre ,  and 
trouble  theretrith.  Better  is  a.  dinner  ofherbes  -where  love  is, 
then  aflalleA  Oxe,andhatre-^  thcrervith.Godgiveth  his  belo' 
ved  fieepe,    x\nd  it  is  the  bleffing  of  God  which  maketh  rich, 
And  he  addeth  no  forrorv  rptth  it. 

The  patient  expedation  of  the  Saints  hath  confirmed 
this,  that  God  will  not  be  wanting  to  his  children  in 
things  of  this  life,  fofarreas  may  be  for  their  fpiriruall 
welfare  :  I  have  beeneyoung^and  now  am  old^yct  have  I  not 
feene  the  righteous  forfaken,nor  his  feed  beggina  bread.  Hee 
ii  ever  mercrfuU  and  lendctb,  Anl  his  feed  is  ble(fed.  The 
children  of  the  needic  (jhall  be  fuccoured  in  due  feafon, 
for  God,  who  knoweth  their  wants,  is  hithfull  to  per- 
forme  promife. 

The  Afts  of  faith  in  rcfpedl  of  thefe  promifes  and  blef- 
iings  arc. 

A  a  2  Firft, 


355 


Lam 


J.24. 


pral.i^.j,^. 


Eccfcf.2.2  4. 


Vcrfc  2(5. 


Pral.37.16. 


Pro.i  y.i6,i7 


Pfal.1272. 
Pro. X 0.3 2, 


4. 


P^al.57.2y,l^ 


Tie  aSis  Of  faith 
is  njpdl   ef 
theft  promifes. 


■.J- 


35« 


what  ft  Is  t$  Uve  bj  Fdith  touchmg  the 


ECa)r.30.7. 


Firftjit  prefcrvcth  from  the  ufcot  all  unlawful!  meanes, 
knowing  that  nothing  can  profpcr,  which  God  approves 
not.   The  "E^ypUanJbaU  he/pe  $h  vaine,  ani  to  no  purpofe; 
therefore  have  I  crjed  concerning  this^  Their  ftrength  is 
\  to  fit  flill^  when  Ephraim /Tiw  hU  ftckne^e^  an^  Judah 
Hofca,5.ij.i4  farv  his  rvound  :   then  went  Ephraim  to  the  Aflyrian, 
andjent  to  K.ing  Jareb  j  yet  could  hee  not  heale yoUy  nor 
cure  joH  of  your  wound.  If  a  manbefoundly  perfwadcd, 
that  the  blcITing  of  God  is  all  in  all,  he  will  ply  that  fare 
firft  •  and  not  undertake  anything,  till  hcfeeGod  wit- 
neffing  unto  him  by  his  Spirit,  that  he  will  be  wiih  him 
toblcffehim  :  which  he  cannot  hope  for,  if  the  meanes 
ufed  to  compaPfe  and  fecure  any  blefling  or  good  thing, 
be  indirc(5t  and  finfull.  Nay,  to  hope  for  bleffed  and  good 
fiicceflc  in  an  cvill  courfe  is  palpable  and  groffe  Idolatry: 
what  h  it  but  really  to  acknowledge  the  Divcll  (  whofe 
diredionthou  folio  weft  for  advantage)  to  be  the  Govcr- 
nourof  the  world,  and  the  difpofer  ofearthly  things  ? 
then  which  nothing  is  more  oppofite  to  lively  faith.  Faith 
fpeaketh  on  this  wife,  'Better  is  a  little  with  righteouf- 
»ejfe,  then  great  revenues  without  right ;  more  comfor- 
table inrefpcfl  of  in  ward  peace,tbe  prefcnt  ufe  of  this  life, 
and  continuance  ;  which  maketh  the  Believer  confult 
,  what  is  juft,not  what  is  gainfull,  or  profitable ;  what  may 
be  compaffed  by  honeft  courfes,  not  what  may  be  gained 
by  fraud,  deceit,  coozenage,  or  other  carnall  dealing.    A- 
gaine,  faith  taketh  diredion  of  God  m  his  word  in  all  bu- 
fineifes,  being  afliired  that  his  counfcll  onely  is  firme  and 
ftable^  and  that  courle  profperous,  which  is  confonant  to 
his  revealed  will .  There  arc  many  devices  in  a  mans  heart, 
ttez^erthelejfe  the  counfell  of  the  Lord  that  Pi  all  ^  And.    The 
j  Lord  hingeth  the  coun  fell  of  the  Heathen  to  naught:  he  ma- 
*  ^th  the  devices  of  the  people  of  none  efeEl,    The  coHnfell  of 
j  the  Lord flandeth  for  ever,  the  thoughts  of  his  heart  to  aS 
I  generations.     Carnall  policies   are  difappointed,   and 
I  counfels  broken,  but  the  diredion  ©f  the  Lord  it  fhall 
I  profper, 
[_ Secondly, 


PtOA6.2, 


Pro.  19.11. 
Pfal.j3.10,. 


fromfeufeAtMfbleffftgSy^^^ 


557 


2. 


Secondly,  Faith  w  paii/idl,  providajf,  and  ft'iigall, 
though  not  diftruftftillj  pinching,  or  niggardly.    Ic  Shakes 
off  idlcneflTc,  obfeyvcs  Gods  {wovidencc,  takes  the  oppop- 
ttinfty,  husbands  thriftily  what  he  beftoWeth,  anderde-^ 
rcth  all  affaires  with  difcrction.    H  e  that  rcfts  moft  confii. 
dent  upon  Gods  blcflinc  for  all  good  things  of  this  life, 
will  be  moft  diligent  to  feck  them  by  iawfull  meanes,and 
carcfiill  to  prcferve  what  the  bountifull  hand  of  God  Hiall 
minifter  unto  him.  He  that  is  fi!enr,expc(^ing  Gods  helpe 
when  mcancs  faiIe,cannot  fit  flili  when  meancs  beat  hand, 
nor  lavifii  indifcrectly  when  nis  cup  runneth  over.Labour 
[  and  providence  be  impolcd  of  GodjWhcretinto  faith  doth 
as  freely  fubmit  it  felfe,even  when  Gods  Licffings  do  flow 
\n  abundantly,  as  it  doth  heartily  wifli  and  expe(fl:  lupply 
,  from  God  in  the  time  of  need. 
'  Thirdly,  It  makcth  inqcjiry  into  the  heart,  turn«h 
from  cvill,  and  fcckcth  the  face  of  God  earneftly.    Con- 
fidence in  God  breeds  fuipition  of  our  felves,  left  any  fin 
fliould  harbour  fecrctly  in  our  bolomc,  or  corruption  get 
head  to  hinder  profpcrity  :  (pecially  ifGod  bIcfTcusnot 
according  to  promifc,  the  firfl:  worlcc  of  faith  is  to  ran- 
fackcar.d  fannc  the  foule  narrowly,  to  find  out  and  re- 
move whatfoever  doth  offend.    I  thought  on  my  yvayts  '^ 
and  turned  my  feet  unto  thj  tefiimonies,     'Before  Irvas  af. 
fitted  I  vpent  ajiray -^  bfttnoT^Ih^ve  kfft  thy  W6rd,    The 
comifcll  of  Elephaz  to  /o^  was  good,  if  he  had  n'ohcly 
applied  it ;  ^cquMnt  now  thyfelfe  with  him,  and  fee  at 
peKce ;  thereby  good  Jhail  come  ttnto  thee,     Receivt,  I  pray 
thee,  the  law  from  hit  month,  and  lay  up  his  words  in  thine 
heart.   If  thou  returne  to  the  <tAlmighty  ^thou  Jhalt  he  huilt 
up,  thou  Jhalt  put  away  inujuity  farre  from  thy  Tahernaeles. 
This  found  advice  ftith  digeftcth,  and  with  much  feri- 
oufnefle  doth  early  with  the  whole  heart  feeke  the  Lord, 
exercife  it  fclfe  in  the  worfhip  of  God,  laboureth  the  re- 
formation of  what  is  amifle,and  compofeth  it  felfe  wholy 
to  the  prcfcript  rule  of  his  Word.  By  faith  we  know, 
God  will  draw  nigh  unto  us,  if  wc  draw  nigh  to  him ;    lam. 4.8,10. 

Aaj       hp 


Verfe  67. 


2-^cF- 


358 


Whai  it  isM^'v^  yj  EAith  fmhmg.  the 


he  -wilt'lif  t  us  up^iPwe  humble  our  ielvts  in  his  fight  j  and 
if  God  lift  us  up,  it  (hall  goe  well ;  if  he  be  with  us.  we 
(hall  want  nothing  which  may  be  for  our  good.  This  is 
the  way  of  faith,  which  cleaveth  unto  the  Lord,  andfee- 
kcth  the  accoinpliflvnenc  of  his  promifes,  as  God  hath 
promiied  to  fulfill  theiB. 

Fourthly,  It  ftirreth  up  to  pray  without  diftrulfuU, 
fruklcfie,  excelTive  care  :    It  commirteth  the cauie unto 
God,  and  makes  fupplication  to  the  Almighty,    Oh  that 
Job.  J  8. &. 8. 5"    thou  vfouldefl  ble[[e  me  indeed,  and  in  large  my  coajr,  ayid 


,  iGhro.4.10. 


Gen-iS. 10,31 


Phil.4.6. 


Pfal.73.23. 


that  thy  haud  might  bee  reith  mee^  anAthat thotiveouldefi 
keepe  mee  from  evill  that  it  may  not  grieve  mee.  If  God 
will  bee  with  mse^  an  J  wiH  keepe  me  in  this  way  that  Tgoe, 
and  will  give  mee  bread  to  eate^  and  raiment  to  put  en : 
So  that  I  come  againe  to  mj  Fathers  hoHfetnfeace^  then 
jhall  the  Lord  be  my  God,  '  If  is  the  exhortation  oiTart/^ 
Bee  carefull for  nothings  but  in  every  thing  by  prayer  and 
fupplication  with  than^giv'mg^  let  your  rec^nefls  be  made 
knowr.e  unto  God.  Now  faith  turneth  precepts  into  pray- 
ers, and  maketh  requeft  according  to  the  will  of  God. 
What  God^quiroi-^hgt  faith  petitioj^cth  for,and  ifi  fuch 

nianneF^;;^  t-Ro:,- ■'■c-j- -r  -(    V?*';  c  o.]:,.  • 

Fiftly,  It  feeth  riches  in  God,  fubmitteth  to  his  wife- 
dome,  refteth  in  his  love,  andfo  maintaincch  a  Chriftian 
in  fome  mealurc  of  contentment.  By  faith  We  fo  embrace 
the  Lord,  as_  that  in  him  vv«  Teeke  and  fee  whatfoever  is 
neccffary  to  falvation,  and  poffeffe  him  as,  the  portioaof 
our  lot  and  inheritance,  who  will  keepe  backe  nothing 
from  us,  but  v.^hat  is  hurtfuU  and  pernicious.    It  leaneth 
upon  the  everlafting  providence  ofGod^  and  promifeth 
prefent  fiiccour  and  fijpply  from  him,  as  in  wifedomehe 
knoweth  'bc%  and  of  grace  hath  promifed. .  I  h^vefet  the 
\  Lord  alwAjes  before  mse :  that  is,  IconOantlyleaneupon 
j  the  aide  of  Qod,  and  am  faftencd  to  his  providence,  be- 
i  ing  confident,  that  when  neceffity  doth  urge,  hee  will  be 
'  at  hand  to  fuf^aine  my  foulejto  jninifter  unto  my  ncccllify. 


ppwcr.^uily  to  aflift  and  eoai^for^.^^y  ^j  .,'j.j 


viuia  a; 


Sixtly, 


fromifes^f  earthly  MefJIftgj,6ic, 


359 
6. 


prai.^.,1. 


revise. 


I. 


Dcut, 


»5.7. 


Sixtly,  In  profperity  it  keepcs  the  heart  in  an  hofy  tcrni- 
per^nddifpofition-,  {fcil  )  in  kimilityahd  meekneflc, 
free  from  carnall  confidence  and  pride;  and  in  tendcrneffc 
and  compafTion  towards  them  that  be  in  mifcrvjcfpecially 
the  Church.,  if  flic  be  in  hcavtncfle,  For  the  blelTings  of 
God^embrace.-l  by  fairh,  fet  animprenionupon  thi  foiile, 
anfwcrabletotbofe  properties  in  him  from  vvlierccthey 
flow.    What  he  gives  in  grace  doth  workctlic  heart  to 
humih"ty  and  tender  commifcration.    Faith  hath  learned 
!  that  power  is  of  God,  and  that  all  his  gifts  are  fi-ecly  be- 
jftovvcd  of  mercy,  without  dcfert ;  but  mercy  received 
I  doth  both  humble  and  mcllifie  the  heart.  The  QodW  man 
j  having  o\>taincd  mercy  and  grace  from  God,  is  agfline  hbl 
Iy,pious,kind  and  merciful!  to  others. It  Is  the  comfnande'' 
ment  o^God.Thou/^alt  not  mahfirongthy  h^art,yi(irpjHt 
up  the  boreehofcompajfion  from  thy  needle  brot her :'^utC\'CT 
m.orc  t!^e  frame  of  a  believing  heart  is  corrcfpondent  to 
the  will  and  pleafure  of  God  :  for  faith  fets-tlicftsropfej 
and  Image  of  God  upon  the  foule.   ^'     -  -. ';I;!''':  .- '■:,  ij 

Moreover,  itdifpofeih  the  heart  to  thankfulnelte  and 
obedience  :  for  it  prefervethfpirituallemptinefle,  which 
giveth  a  fweet  rcrifL  to  the  mercies  of  God  :  and  exclu- 
ding all  boafting  in  our  felves,  ftirreth  up  to  glory  m  the 
Lord,  and  willingly  to  devote  our  felves  tinto  his  Service, 
from  whom  we  have  received  whatfocvcr  we  cn/oy. 
fVhAt  Jf).tlt  I  retJ'ier  unto  the  Lord  for  all  hii  mercies  toroards    PfaLn^.n  i> 
mee  ?  Jivilltal^  the  c»p  offalvat'mt  and  call  upon  the  Name 
of  the  Lord.    Men  boke  for  thankes  for  a  fmall  kind- 
neflc ;  for  a  token,  a  dinner,  if  they  write  but  a  letter, 
fpeake  a  word,  take  a  journey  in  our  behalfe  :  Faith 
rcades  the  name  of  God  in  all  his  mercies,  and  ferioafly 
calleth  them  to  remembrance,  what  then  can  it  doe  lefle 
then  magnifie  the  name  of  God  for  all  his  goodnefie  ? 
The  mercies  of  God  to  a  believing  heart,  are  as  manure 
to  (bund  and  good  foyle,which  maketh  it  more  fcrrile.Sa- 
jthan  himfelfe  will  confelTc,  that  (jod  is  ipccially  to  be 
'fenced  in  the  daycs  of  profperity,  for  when  God  asked 
1  Aa4  him, 


.■^' 


3^0 


Wh4i  rtisu>  U'Vt  hy  Faith  tMchijf^  the 


lob.  1.^,10.     \  him,  Haft  thou  t^nfij^i^ed my  fervdnt  Job,  4  ;«/  vtauy^c, 
He-J-cplicthj  D^th  Job  feare  God  far  naught  ?.  HaJI  thou 
»ot  tmtdt  an  hedge  ahent  him  f  and  faith  doth  both  re- 
Encmbcr  man  of  his  duty,  and  pcrfwade  biai  to  be  fo 
much  the  more  (crviceable  and  obedient  as  the  mercies  of 
PTal.  1 1 5. 9;    j  God  arc  powr ed  upon  him  more  plentifully.  IrvUl  rvalke 
I  before  the  Lord  in   the  land  of  the'  living.      When  the 
Churches  had  reft  throughout  all /W^-**,  and  Galilee^  and 
Afifs.9.fi.          Samaria  J  they  were  edited,  atidwalkinginthefeare  ofthe 
Lord,  and  in  the  comfort  of  the  Holy  Ghofi,  were  multiplied. 
Seventhly,  Itpr&yeth  as  earneftly  for  the  fandification 
of  profperity,  and  Gods  bl effing  upon  the  meanes,  as  for 
die  meanes  themfelvcs  if  they  were  wanting.  The  more 
we  profper,tfae  more  carncft  be  the  prayers  of  faith.  For 
of  our  felves  we  have  no  power  to  wield  agoodeftate 
well :  nor  ability  to  prcferve  and  kcepe  it.  An  high  cftate 
is  fub/c(5l  to  many  ftormes  and  tempefts :  in  greatcft  eafe 
we  lie  open  to  moft  temptations.   In  the  hot  Summer 
men  quickly  catch  cold:  ^  if  we  pray  not  earneftly  when 
we  profpcr  in  the  world,  we  (hall  coole  in  grace.  Earth- 
ly bleflings  be  fo  frailc,  and  weofourfelvesloweake, 
that  the  more  wc  have,the  more  we  ftand  in  need  of  Gods 
pfal.35.15.       gratbus  afliftance  and  fupport.    The  Creatures  them- 
felvcs have  no  power  to  hcipe,  can  profit  nothing  unlefle 
I  God  put  forth  his  hand  to  bleffc  them  for  our  ufe.   This 
j  makes  that  the  requcfts  of  faith  be  not  forraall  and  pcr- 
fiin^floric,  buteffedtuall,  fervent,  arifingfromatruc  con- 
I  fideration  of  the  weakncfle  and  impotencicDf  thex:rea- 
I  rure  to  fiiftainc  and  uphold  us.    And  thus  to  liv^by  faith 
I  in  the  abundance  of  all  things  makes  way  for  patience, 
I  contcotcdneflc,  found  peace  in  the  depth  of  mifery,when 
>  we  be  left  naked  ard  dcftitute  of  all  humane  aide.    For  if 
1  when  we  enjoy  meanes,  we  leane  not  upon  them,  but  up- 
I  on  the  I^ord ;  when  they  are  taken  away,wc  fhall  not  fall, 
i  our  ftay  remaining. 
8,        [     EJghtiy>  it  makes  heavenly- minded  in  the  ofe  and  pof. 
fcflion  of  a  profpcrous  cftate.  As  it  i eceivcth  all  earthly 
,__„„__„  bleifings 


fremifts  fft/irMy  hleffiiigs,8ic. 


361 


hitCRngs  fromGcxl,  as  pledges  af  his  fpcciaU  loue,  and 
part  of  their  childcs  portion  :  {0  it  windcth  ard  pullerh 
up  the  foLilc  to  Godagaine.  Looke  what  love-tokens  are 
tolinke  the  hearts  oi  wclwillcrs,  and  bring  them  toge- 
thcr,or  to  prclerve,renew,and  increafe  aff:  (5iion  amon«fl: 
friends ;  fuch  force  have  the  good  things  of  this  life  to  fife 
up  the  beh'eving  heart  to  commune  with  the  Lord.  And 
furc,  profperitie  is  the  fitteft  fcafon  for  heavenly  contem- 
plation :  the  Icffirtrouble  lieth  upon  our  ftate,  the  more 
liberty  we  have  with  freedoms  to  thinke  upon  fuch  things 
as  concerne our  etcrnall  inheritance.  Befide?,  faith  can- 
not favour  earthly  blelTings,  unlclTeittaftchislove,  and 
feed  upon  his  goodneffein  them.  If  being  invited  to  a 
Noblemans  Tabic,  he  be  pleafcd  to  carve  a  bit  upon  our 
Trencher,  that  is  better  then  all  the  feaft.  The  love  of 
God,  giving  us  earthly  things  to  en  joy,  is  that  which  gi- 
vcth  them  the  beft  relilh.  And  if  we  tafte  the  fwectneffc 
of  his  loving  kindnefie  in  thrle  things,  we  cannot  but 
defirc,  and  long  to  be  rcfredied  with  fuller  communion 
with  him. 

Ninthly,  Faith  breeds  godly  jealoufie  and  fu(pition, 
left  the  heart  fhould  be  dravvnc  away  with  the  plcafing 
delights  of  things  tranfitorie.  For  by  grace  we  are  made 
conlcious  of  our  ownc  wcakcncfle,  and  of  the  fnarc  that 
is  in  every  creature  to  take  and  intangle  as.  Profpcriiy  h 
pleafingjbut  dangerous.  Children  (Quickly  furfet  on  fwect 
meats :  Coozening  companions  give  flattering  fpeechcs.. 
Long  peace  begets  idlencfl'e  :  Povcrtic  is  more  fertile  of 
men  :  plentie  of  riot,niccnc(Te,  cafe,  and  fuch  like.  Blu- 
ftcring  windes  cannot  pull  the  cloake  from  the  traveller, 
who  ca^s  it  oii'in  the  hcate  of  the  Sunne.  We  have  ex- 
amples of  many  great  worthies,  who  have  caught  much 
hurt  in  profperity*  Reft  hath  c&minated  many  Cap- 
taincs,  who  coidd  r.evcr  be  crushed  or  overcome  with  the 
,  tcrrours  of  warre.  Softfandsfwallow  more  (hips,  then 
hard  rockcs  fplit  afundcr  This  make?  the  waking  belie- 
ver circumfpcft  to  examine  his  heart,  aid  watch  over  it, 

how 


9r 


36i 


i(x 


Pro.ia  }. 
&  z7.1t. 


—  111     J       I  I 

What  it  isie  lii/c  by  Faith  touching  the 


how  lepcrtormcs  holy  dutics,how  heentenaines  holy 
thoughts,  how  his  affedions  move  towards  that  which  is- 
above,  left  he  fliould  mifcarric  upon  the  lands. 

Tcnthly,  It  mindcth  us  of  our  change,  even  when  our 
niountaine  kemcth  ftrongcft.    The  thhg  that  I  erectly  , 
feared  (-  faid  lob  )  is  come  upon  mee,  and  that  M,  ij, 
afraid  cf^  come  unto  mee.    I  wx,  not  in  fafcty,  neither 
hadlrcn,  neuher  had  I  cjuiet :  I  alwayes  thought  upon  ■ 
^l  t'"^^a  ^"^J^P^^d  ^^r  an  alteration  of  mine  eftate  ' 
The  longcft  day  hath  night  at  length  entrine  :  yea,  there 
.^  no  windc  which  may  not  bio  w  raine,  if  God  be  L  plea- 
i^d.    hftates  which  have  the  longrft  periods  of  profpe- 
nty,  be  at  length  excrcifed  with  afflictions  •  and  th»r- 
-IS  no  condition  fo  fure  and  peaceable,    but  may  rurnc  , 
tempeftious  on  the  fudden,   iliould  not  God  be  mor«  I 

-^"^Tu"'-  c^^''  ^'^"S  ^"  ^'^  ^^^^^  apparant,  and  confir- i 
med  by  infinite  examples,  cannot  be  hid  from  the  pier- 1 
cing  eye  of  faith,  which  is  fpiritually  wife  to  dilcerne  ' 
aforehand,  what  events  we  are  fub/e^  unto  in  this  va"c  ' 
of  teares.    Nature  by  inftindl  giveth  untounreafon^ble 
Creatures  a  facultie,  which  makcth  them  afore-hanj 
yprehenfive  of  that  which  is  ready  to  enfue  :  The  wife- 
dome  which  IS  from  above,  maketh  the  Lords  children 
fenfiblcinhkekinde,  that  as /.^,  fo  they,in  their  grea  eft 
calme  forefee  how  Gods  hand  may  change  for  their  ex- 

^^Nor  doth  faith  onely  forefee danger,but prepare  forif  I 
f^-f'l^-^f^eththefU^ueandhilthh-J^^^^^^  The Te-  I 
i  Tn  w^fM  "'"'^>  due  confideration,how  wanting  he  I 
tT.ritTT^''^  '^"J''  \"  ^'■^"S^^  '^  f^^"d  when  Sod  I 
unT^f^  A  ^''/^^^^^"g^^iswitandftrength,  heflieth 
.untoGod,andholdeth him, as hewhohathbeene, is  and  1 

Se  Au^S'  "7,^l^^'''r  '  ^"^  lookethuntoChHft  ! 
the  Author  and  fim/her  of  our  faith,  who  hath  received 

'caTuTrnnr"'  "^-^^^  ^^'^''^  that^ieAouIdnotone  J 
uDarthe  iw?^"V"'-^'u^'^^^^  ofgrace,butalforaifeus 
up  at  the  laft  day;  who  is  that  great  God  and  Saviour^who  j 

— — _____^      will' 


fromlfes  of  mthijhUffmgs^^c,  > 


I      l^\ 


will  kecpe  his  from  every  evill  workc  unto  his iieavcnly 

kingdomc.  -r   •  •    /- 

This  matter  "may  be  cxempliticd  m  lomc  particular, 
fciL  how  wc  are  to  .live  by  faith  in  the  ufe  of  meatc  and 

FiriBy  faith  we  learnc  out  of  the  Word  of  God.who 
have  lonnc-Iike  intcreft  and  title  unto  the  creatures, what 
creatures  are  fanaiHed  unto  our  ufe,  and  how  each  man 
muft  fanrtifie  them  unto  himfelfe  by  a  reverent  and  holy 
ufe.  As  tliat  the  pcifDn  muil  be  in  covenant,  refting  upon 
Chriftfor  falvation,  and  giving  himfelfe  unto  iheljudic, 
and  fincere  unpartiall  praailc  of  holineile  ;  the  food  muft 
be  lawfully  gotten,  provided  with  wife  refped  of  our 
pbceand  meanes,  without  diftrading  care,  cr  cxquifitc 
curiofityand  niccneflc ;  received  with  thanksgiving,  as 
from  Gods  hand,  and  ufcd  as.  in  his  (Ighc  and  prelencc.tor 
fuch  ends  and  purpofes  as  he  hath  appointed. 

Secondly, It  receiveth  them  not  as  th.  fruit  of  cur  tore- 
cad,  labour,  or  defert,but  as  gifts  of « Gods  bounty,yea,as 
j^ifts  of  t»  the  gratious  covenant,  proceeding  from  the  free 
Tove  of  God.For  in  the  covenant  of  grace  God  prc^nilcth 
notonely  to  write  his  law  in  our  hearts,  and  to  forgive 
our  fins/but  alfo  to  conferre  ten^porall  bleirings,  as  they 
fhall  be  ferviceable  to  us  in  our  journey  towards  Heaven. 
Men  that  make  a  great  purchafe,  defire  to  have  fome  part 
in  prefent  podefTun :  and  our  gratious  God,njakjng  pro- 
mise of  eternallhappinefle,  doth  give  earthly  blemngs  m 
hand,  as  pertaining  to  that  heavenly  pofleHion,  which  we 
{hall  enjoy  hereafter-Now  as  God  gives  temporall  things 
to  his  people  in  covenant,  f)doth  faith  receive  them  as 
tokens  of  fpeciall  good-will  and  favour  in  Jeius  Chrirt,in 
and  through  whom  of  free  grace,  fonne-like  right  and 
title  to  the  creatures  isreftored.  which  by  finne  and  difo- 
bedience  was  forfeited.  And  the fe  conhderations  ftrike 
the  heart  with  reverence,inflame  it  with  love,and  raife  an 
holy  regard  and  care  not  to  abufe  this  grant  of  mercy, 
brced^ln  acknowledgement  of  our  unworthmeflc  of  any 


Hffw  to  live  h}/ 
ja'-ih  inihei/e 
of  mcate  and 

.:rift!ie. 

I. 

iTim.4  4,5. 


Titus. 1. 1  J. 
2  Thcffj.ix. 


3. 

rfi!. 104.51. 
»&  y4f.1T. 

t 
Ezek.j7.i4,i5 


He'o.i^z.&Z.^ 


TT^ 


3fA_ 


3. 

Dcut.8.3. 

Pfal.l«4.i5 


Whatit  i^t&Uve  by  Faith  Uuchmg  the 


Hof.4.10. 

H.ig.  1.5,6.  I 
Micli.6, 14,151 
rfai.io6.ij.    I 


iTim.4.4. 


major. in  i.Tim 

4.5. 

Hofea.z.9. 


Calvin,in  PfaL 
8.Verfe.8 
Mailer, ibid. 


mercy  admirationofGodsprovifion,  and  contcntation 
with  theleaftbleflingof  God, 

Thirdly,  By  faith  wc  arc  taoght,  that  man  hVeth  not  by 
bread  oiily,but  by  the  providcnee  of  God,afld  his  bklKni 
upoii  his  own  ordinance.lt  is  not  the  nature  of  the  thine  it 
Iclfe  fimply  to  nourifii ;  ifGods  blcffing  be  not  upon  it,it 
can  afford  no  refrcfiiing.Bread  ftrengthens,wine  comforts 
the  heart  by  his  ordinance  and  application  of  them  to  that 
ule :  but  the  blelTing  is  not  in  the  creature,  it  comes  from 
above.  Bread  nouriftieth  when  it  is  Gods  hand  or  meanes 
to  confer  flrength  and  vigour;  butif  hepluckeaway  his 
band,  It  IS  but  a  dea^e  nut.  Thou  maift  eate,  and  nor  be  fil- 
led ;  drinkc,  and  not  be  fatisfied.  Thus  it  is  noted  of  the 
Ifrae/itef,  The  Lord  fed  them  with  Manna,  but  fent  lean- 
nclic  into  their  foules. 

This  pcrfwa(ion,finking  dcepc  into  the  believing  heart 
takcth  It  off  the  creature,  and  lifteth  it  unto  the  Lord  in 
carneft  and  pertinent  prayer,  that  he  would  of  his  grace 
vouch(afeuntous,asleavctoufe  his  creatures,  fobis  blef- 
Img  upon  them,that  the  food  we  receive  may  do  us  good, 
weteelmg  the  nouriOiing  vcrtue  thereof,  and  that  with 
joy  and  chcerefulnefTe.  The  prayer  of  faith,for  Gods  blef- 
nng  upon  the  creatures, when  they  are  fet  before  us  Oiould 
be  no  lefle  earneft,thcn  for  the  mercies  themfclves  if  wan- 
tmg.For  there  is  no  more  poITibility  in  meatc  of  it  felfeto 
nourifli  without  Gods  blefling,  then  itis  for  man  to  live 
without  mcate. 

Fourthly ,  It  teachcth  to  be  heavenly-mindcd,Iaboarine 

,«vt  f!'-^^'''^"^^^^  ^"'^  ^^^^^  hisgratiousprefcnci 
with  our  {pints  at  our  fweeteft  feafts.  And  this  is  the  bcfl: 
lawcetoallmeates,  which  giveththethedaintieftrellifh. 
When  we  fit  downe  to  mcate,  we  come  to  a  lively  Ser- 
mon of  Gods  bounty  and  love :  for  the  bread  wc  feed  up- 
on is  not  ours  but  the  Lords,  all  the  provifion  are  gifts  of 
his  mercy  in  Jefus  Chrift.  And  the  more  fenfible  the  crca! 
mres  are,the  more  pleafant  and  delightfome  to  our  palate* 
foSftt".  "'  ■"  '^'^^  with  ri^fenfcoU; 


fromifes  efemhly  blcj]tngs^^c. 


Fiftly,  Faith  workcth  tbc  heart  to  fobricty  and  mode- 
ration, watchfulnefTc,  and  feare  left  it  fhould  be  cnfnared 
and  drawnc  away  with  thefe  delights.  To  fobricty  in  aP- 
fe(5Ving,  and  in  ulir.g  earthly  things  ;  To  fobriety  in 
thought,  thatwc  fufternot  the  mind  to  be  taken  up  with 
cogitations,  what  we  (hall  eate  next,  how  we  may  grati- 
fic  the  palate;  Sobriety  in  defire,  that  we  long  not  after 
dainty  mcatc;  for  fuch  longing  effeminates  the  minde,en- 
genders  and  feeds  pafllon,  and  makes  way  to  hardneflc  of 
heart  ;  Sobriety  in  receiving  them,  for  the  ftrengthcning 
of  nature,  and  not  to  the  dulling  ot  our  fpirits. 

For  faith  raifeth  the  heart  to  more  fpirituaJl  deUghts, 
and  guardcth  the  appetite,  that  it  range  not  immoderately 
after  fcnfuall  things.  The  word  of  grace  teacheth  to  live 
foberly,  anu  faith  receiving  this  word  workcth  fobrietie 
in  earthly  things,  ref  re  filing  the  foule  with  fpirituall 
fweetnefles,  and  watching  againft  intemperate  chcri- 
fliings,  that  they  winne  not  ground.  As  a  man,  that  hath 
tooke  in  thetafte  of  the  beft  creatures,  cannot  forth-with 
feed  on  that  which  is  courfe,meanc,no  way  to  be  compa-  | 
red:  foaChriftian,  who  by  faith  hath  taftedtheloveof 
God,which  is  better  then  wine,the  comforts  of  the  word, 
which  are  fweetcr  then  honey  to  the  mouth,he  cannot  af- 
fcifl  ("as  fometimes  before  he  did)  thofe  fcnfuall  delights, 
which  carnall  men  (who  know  no  better)  follow  with 
greedincffe.If  earthly  delights  creepe  upon  us,it  is  becaufc 
the  exercife  of  faith  is  negle«^ed,which  muft  confcionably 
be  renewed  againc. 

Moreover,a  Chriftian  believer  comes  to  his  Tabic  with 
an  holy  Jealoufie,  remembring  that  a  fnare  is  laid  for  him 
in  every  creattire.  Sathan  is  a  cunning  fowler,  who  hath 
his  baits  laid  fecretly  to  catch  us,  where  we  leaft  fufpeft. 
The  Snake  lurketh  in  the  faireft  grafle  :  and  the  moft  dan- 
gerous grins  arc  fet  in  our  lawfnll  liberties.  And  through 
neglc(5l  to  keepe  up  our  warch,thefc  oft  take,when  others 
milTc.  Morcperilh  through  the  abufe  of  things  law  full, 
then  by  thcpradife  of  what  is  fimply  unlaw  full.    They 

arC' 


3«J 


.•i.^ 


Titus. 


Mr, 


Cant.  1.  J. 

lOJ. 

Pfal.j^p. 
Jer.j1.14. 


l-Ji 


S66 


Wh^ttfsto'U^e  hj  Faith  touching  the 


lob.  I. J, 


Pl0.2|.I,t,3. 


6. 

Dcut.S.io. 
I  Tini.ij.4 


lude  Verfe  1 1.  are  fpots  in  the  f:t,aRs  <j>^Cbaritic,who  feed  without  Fcarc. 

Mat.»4,38,39.j  Eating, drinking/building,  matter  ofmarriagc,the  world 
fhall  be  drowned  iu  thefe,  when  Chrirt  comes  to  Judge- 
ment. How  many  times  do  thebcfl:  offend  inlawfuU 
things  ?  The  plcsfure,' ,We  take  intbeie  chfngs,how  infen- 
fibly  doth  it  fteale  the  heart  away  from  fpirituall  ddights? 
how  doth  it  indifpofe  the  frame  ofthefou'c  to  heavenly 
.cxcrcifcs ?  how  dothitcheri/h  wrath,,  and  fcfter unbrid- 
led paflions  >■  Dainty  meares  arc  very  dangerous  and  dc- 
ceitfull  :  for  the  fenfible  delight  they  give,  whereby  the 
appetite  is  inordinately  moved  after  them,  doth  preiT'e 
downetbe  foulc,  that  it  cannot  mount  aloft  in  fpirituall 
contemplation :  Thefc  evils  faith  doth  wifely  forefee  and 
watch  to  prevent.  ,  3 1  o  h  ^  ■  7;  Zii  i    .*?p  y i  f i ; . 

Sixfly ,  It  lif teth  u>  -the  T<?ule  in  thankcfgivinE.  Our 
Saviour  bleffed  the  Table  as  well  by  praifing  God  for  his 
mercy,  as  by  prayer  for  a  bleffing.  The  creatures  arc  not 
ours,  but  the  Lords ;  we  muft  not  meddle  with  them  bc- 
tore  we  have  craved  leave ;  and  when  we  Iiave  made  ufe 
ot  them  tor  fupply  of  our  neceffity,  we  rouft  not  forget  to 
returne  praife.  If  men  borrow  oughc  of  their  neighbour, 
when  they  bring  it  home,they  forget  not  to  give  thankes. 
Great  is  the  mifery  of  man  i^  he  want  thefe  outward 
comforts :  and  the  greater  our  mifery  withoucthem,  the 
more  incomprehenfible  is  the  Lords  mercy  m  fupplying 
our  necelTities.  The  providence  of  God  in  miniftring  dai- 
ly food  IS  no  leflc  wonderful!,  then  was  his  feeding  of 
Ifrael  m  the  wildernefle  with  Manna  and  Quailes  from 
Heaven: for  as  we  are  not  fed  as  they  were.fo  are  we  pre- 
ferved  from  their  neceffity.  That  the  earth  fliould  yceld 
her  increafe  for  our  daily  fuftenance,  fo  as  wc  feele  no  cx- 
tremity,is  it  not  as  great  a  blelTing,  as  to  be  fupplied  from 
Hcaven.when  wc  are  brou£jht  into  diftrefie  ?  who  would 
not  chufe  rather  never  to  befickc,rhen  to  recover  by  mira- 
cle? what  man  would  not  rather  en;oy  the  conftanc  benc- 
ht  of  eye- fight,  then  to  be  reftored  after  long  blindnefle  ? 
Befidcs,  they  be  not  fimply  favours  which  for  the  prcfenc 
_  fuftainc 


3^7 


7. 


fromiffsbfedrihly  hleffiti^s^f^c*  * 

fuftaine  narur.-',  but:  they  ate  fo  ne  fmaU  pittance  of  our 
chiJds  {5iorcion,pawHes-of  du*  heavcnlviHifetrJcancc:  wliich. 
doth  addc  much  uiit(i  their  I'^v^^ne"^-  tf  friei?cl-."bc  ahrc»;t,l 
a  letter,  a  token  fc  rvf  s  muchfo  ttiAirtaine  lov^e  and  V.\f\d- 
nefle  :  now  thefe  ^c  Ibuie  of  thofelA-c-tokcns,  vvhich 
our  heavenly  Father  fendcth  unto  u>,  that  he  might  draw 
our  love  uiitohi'ri. 

Seventhly,  Faith  is  frugall,  compa(Tianate,  in^urtrious. 
After  we  have  beenc  ref relti -d,  itluffers  nottliertieate,   john.ii.iii' 
which  remaineth  tob.  lo(h  batreferveth  it  for  good  ufc. 
Atgreacer  fealLs  ic  is  mindtbd  of  the  poorc  ;  at  ordinarie  j 
mcales  it  remernbers  the  afflii^ion  of  lofeph,  regardeth    Amos.6;6. 
the  worke  of  the  Lord,  and  co;  {idereth  the  opcratio^i  of :  Efi;.?  la. 
his  hands.  For  th^  mercies  of  God,  received  by  faitb^doe 
leave  an  impre(Tion  of  his  mercy  upjn  rhe  (oulc  :  and  fo 
our  compalTion  towards  others  is  increafed  as  the  mercies 
of  God  are  multiplied  upon  us.   Daily  refr<  fhing  renueth 
thecontinuallrrmembrance  of  our  infirmities,  and  beger-  \ 
teth  a  lively  fenfe  of  the  mileries  of  them  that  wantaixl  i 
ftandinneede.And  when  vigour  of  Minde  and  body  is  re- 
paired ,ir  letteth  us  about  the  worke  and  bufinc{le,where- 
unto  we  are  appointed  of  God.   God  gives  none  food  to 
live  idle.  Jvlen  looke  for  worke  from  them  to  whom  they 
give  meatc:,drinke,and  wages  ;  and  fhall  not  we  labour  in 
the  worke  of  God,who  live  daily  on  his  allowance. 


CHAP.  IX. 

fVh.tt  it  ii  to  live  by  faith  touching  the  CommanAe- 

mints :  which  Go  i  hath  given  for  direElton 

of  our  lives  ^  According  to  tvhich 

we  ought  to  walke, 

IN  the  word  of  grace  the  Lord  calfeth  for  univerfall^vo- 
luntaryjfincereamiformejconftantobedience-,  and  prO- 
mifcth  both  to  inable  his  Children  to  doe  what  is  plea- 


:.-9^ 


558 


The  lord  caffs 
forwiffin^y 
cheirejuU^vnl- 
verfalyvnfained 
confiant  obedi- 
ence. 

Gen, 17. 1. 
Exod,ip.5. 

Deut.f.»9.& 
Deut.6.17. 


Dcut.iS.i. 


Iofti.tT.5.& 
XJ.8  &  14.14 


Pfal.io6.j, 

Luk.i.74,7  f . 
Pro.13.17. 


Pfal.if.ix. 
Dcut.jo.6. 


Wh/itit  ute  live  bj  Faith  touching  the 

fing,  and  to  accept  of  their  willing,  though  weakc  fcr- 
vicc.    The  firft  of  thele  branches  is  apparant  and  well 
knownc  to  them  that  be  any  whit  cxercifcd  in  the  word ; 
the  fccond  hath  becne  proved  at  large  already :  nevcrthc- 
Icflc  that  weakc  Chriftians  might  have  in  readinefle  fome 
grounds  offaith  in  thcfe  particulars,  it  willnotbefuper- 
fiuous  to  point  to  fome  paflages  of  Scripture  where  they 
may  fee  them  confirmed.   That  Chriftians  are  bound  to 
ferve   God  willingly  and  chcarefuUy  without  con- 
ftraint,  univerfallyinholineflcandrighteoufnefle,  unfai- 
nedly  as  in  his  fight,all  the  dayes  of  their  life,  condantly  in 
all  eftates  unto  the  end,  thele  few  texts  may  be  fufficicnc 
to  prove.  I  am  the  Almighty  Godyivalks  before  me  >  and  bee 
thoHperfeSit    If  je  yoill  obey  my  voice  indeed^  a»dk.f^pemy 
covenant,  thenyeefiaH  be  apecttHar treafure  unto  mee  above 
all  people,   0  that  there  werefuch  an  heart  in  them  ^t  hat  they 
Kvouldfeare  me,  andkeepe  my  commandements  alwayei, that 
it  might  be  well  with  them,  and  with  their  children  for  ever, 
Tou  fhaU  diligently  keepe  the  Commandements  of  the  Lord 
your  God.  Iff  hou/^alt  hearken  diligently  unto  the  voice  of  the 
Lerd  thy  God,  to  ob/erve  and  to  doe  all  his  Qommandements 
which  I  comma  ft :( thee  this  d^y,  the  Lord  thy  God  wifffet 
thee  on  high  above  aU  the  nations  of  the  earth.  Take  diligent 
heede,  to  do  the  cemman^ement  and  the  law,  whichMoits  the 
fervant  of  the  Lord  charged joh,  to  love  the  Lord  your  Gody 
andto  walke  in  alhis  waief,andto  keepe  his  (^ommandgments, 
and  to  cleave  unto  htm,  and  to  ferve  him  with  all  your  hearty  \ 
and  with  ally  our  foule.Ble^edzve  they  that  keepejudgementy 
and  he  that  doth ]u files  at  aH  times.  To  this  end  arc  we  de- 
livered out  of  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  that  wee  might 
ferve  him  without  feare, in  holineffe  andrighteoufneffe  before 
him  all  the  dajes  of  our  life.  Be  thou  in  the  feare  of  the  Lord 
all  the  day  long. 

And  looke  what  fervicc  the  Lord  doth  expert  and  call 
for,that  he  will  enable  his  people  in  covenant  to  performc, 
what  man  is  he  thatfeareth  the  Lord,bim  will  he  teach  in  the 
way  that  he  Jhall  chufe.  The  Lord  thy  God  will  circumcife 

thine 


CommanckmentSj  d'C, 


B^9 


Vcrfc  8. 


Jer.24.7. 


Ezck.  II.  ij. 


Ezej7.tJ,i4 


ihiite  heart,  and  the  heart  cfthjfeede,  to  love  tht  Lord  thy 
God  with  all  thy  heart  and  mth  aU  thyfoule,  that  thou  maili 
live,  Andthofijhalt  returne,  A»dol;ey  the  vejcc  of  the  L§r4^ 
&  doe  all  hii  commands  mints  which  Icomwand  thee  thU  day. 
Andl  will  give  them  an  heart  to  know  me,  that  I  am  the 
Lord^  andtheyjhallbemy  feople,andIwitl  be  their  God-, 
for  thejfftall  returne  unto  me  with  their  whole  heart.  Andl 
will  put  a  newfpirit  wtthinyou,  andl  will  take  the  fiony 
heart  out  of  their  ^po  ,  and  will  give  them  an  heart  of  f,ejh, 
I  will fave  them  out  of  their  dwe/ling  places  ,  wherein  they 
have  finned ,  and  will  cleanfe  them ,  fo  fhall  they  hee  my 
people,  andl  will  be  their  Go  ^,     And  David  my  fervant 
Jhallb:  king  over  them,  and  they  fiiall  all  have  one  jheep- 
heard:  they  jhallalfo  walke   in  my  judgments,    and  ih' 
ferve  myfiatfttes  and  doe  them.  In  that  day  fing  yee  unto 
her,  A  vineyard  of  red  wine.    I  the  Lord  doe  k^^pe  it , 
itnd  will  water  it  every  moment :  lefl  any  hurt  it,  I  will  k^epe 
it  night  and  day .  Surely  (hall  one  fay  ,  In  the  Lord  hzvc  I 
righteoufne^e  and  ftrength.Thefe  that  beplantedin  the  houfe 
of  the  Lord,^allfiourifl}  in  the  courts  of  our  God.  Tliey  Jhall 
Jf  ill  bring  forth  fruito  in  old  age  ;  they  fftallbefat  andjiouri- 
Jhing,  Sinne  Jhall  not  have  dominion  over  you.  Now  we  are 
deliveredfrom  the  larv,that  being  deadwherin  we  were  held, 
that  wefhouldferve  in  new  net  of  Spirit  ^  and  not  in  oldnes  of 
the  letter,  I  can  doe  all  things  through  Chrifi  which  ftreng^ 
theneth  me. 

The  obedience  of  the  faithfiill,which  through  the  pow- 
er of  grace  they  performc,is  weake  &  impcrfeA.but  plea- 
fingand  acceptable  unto  God.  The  Lord  takethpleafure  in 
them  thatfeare  hiw.in  thofe  that  hope  in  his  mercy. The  Lord 
taketh  pleafure  in  hus peoptexhewill beautife  the  meeke  with 
falvation.In  every  nation  he  that  feareth  God  and  worketh 
righteoftfneelfe,u  accepted  of  him. The  Lordby  Afofes  did 
often  times  tell  his  pcoplcthat  they  offering  up  their  facri- 
fices,  fuch  as  be  commanded,  they  fliould  be  accepted: 
which  is  often  repeated  by  the  Vro^htts.Thou  fhalt  make  a  &  zt.ii.&  j^. 
plate  of  pure  gold,  and  grave  upon  k  like  the  engravings  of  a  \  w, 
__^^^  B  b  fi^net, 


iray»7.a,j, 

iray4f.»4. 

Rom. 6,14. 
Rom.  7.6. 


Phil. 


4. 1  J. 


The  Chriftians 
obedience  ii  im- 

perfeSi, but  flea' 

fing. 

pro.  I2.ZI, 

Pfal.  147.11. 

Pfal.149.4. 

Ads  10.  j;« 

Levit  1.5,4, 


370 


Efay^o.7. 


ao.40,41. 
Mal.j.4. 


Whdt  itistoUve  bj  Faith  touching 


the 


pfal.15.14. 


108. 


PfaLii© 

iDcut.5j.1i 


Rom,i2,i. 


Phil.4.18. 


Heb.13.  i^« 


Col.5.10. 
Hcb.  11.5. 


Fiith'uneceJfO' 
rytotheka- 
ding  of  a  Chri- 
fiim  life. 


jtgnet ,   Holitteffe ,  to  the  Lord  j  audit pialt  be  upon  Aaroos 
ffreheadjthat  Aaron  may  bcare  the  ini<^uitj  of  the  holy  things 
which  the  children  efliv2.c\\fMllhaUow,in  aH  their  he ly gifts 
4»ditjha/lh  alwayes  upcri  huforehead,that  they  may  be  ac' 
cepted  before  the  Lord.  AH  thefiocks  of  K^dsLT/hall  be  gathered 
together^  the  Rams  of^cbaloth/haflffsinijleruntothee  :  they 
fhall  come  up  vnith  acceptance  on  mine  altar.  The  Priejis  (hall 
I  makeyokr  burnt  o^erinqs  upon  the  altar^and  your  peace  offe- 
rings ^  and  I  will  accept  y  OK  yfaiih  the  Lord  (jodCThenfhall  the 
I  ojferings  of  Judah  and  Jerufalem  be  pleafant  unto  the  Lord^ 
OA  in  the  dayes  of  clkyand  oi  in  former  ye  ares  .Then  fh  alt  ihou 
bepleafedrvith  thefacrifices  of  righteoufnc s -^ivith  burnt  offtr- 
ing^andivhole burnt offeri>i(r.  Hereunto  may  be  referred 
the  pra>cr  of  the  Prophet.  Let  the  -words  of  my  mouth,  and 
the  meditation  of  my  heart  be  acceptable  in  thy  fight,  O  Lord 
my  jirength  and  my  redeemer.  Accept  I  befeech  thee^  the  free- 
TV  in  offerings  of  my  mouth,  O  Lord,  and  teach  me  thy  Iudge~ 
7wf«f /.There  be  many  other  teftimonies  to  the  lame  pur- 
pofe.  Ibefeeih you  therefore  brethren,by  the  mercies  of^od, 
thatjee  prefentyour  bodies  a  livingfacrifice  holy,  acceptable 
unte  God.  I  am  full, having  received  of  Epaphroditus  the 
things  which  were  itmfromyou^an  odour  ofafivcete/melly 
a facrifice accept ableyWel-plcafingto  Cjod.  But  to  doe  good, 
and  to  communicate  forget  not  i  for  with  fuchfacri fees  God  is 
weUpleafed.  Tee  alfo,  as  lively  fl ones  are  built  up  afpirituall 
houfi,  an  holy  Priefihoed^to  offer  up  j^irituaUfacrifice  ^accep- 
table to  God  by  Jefm  Chri/},   Children   obey  your  pa- 
rents in  all  things,  for  this  is  well  pleafmg.  Before  his  tran- 
flation  Enoch  had  received  this  tcjhmony,  that  he  pleafed 
God. 

And  this  faith  is  mofl:  neceflary  to  the  leading  of  a 
Chriftian  liicyfcil.  to  adhere  and  fticke  faft  unto  the  com- 
mandements,  reft  upon  God  for  ability  to  doe  what  he  rc- 
quireth,and  thatiie  will  accept  what  (incere  and  unfained 
lervice,  though  Weake  and  imperfect,  is  tendred  unto  his 
Highnefle.  •  •::: 

For  the  word  of  grace ,  which  commandeth  to  believe 

the 


"  Cemmandements,  (ire. 


the  free  mercy  of  the  Lord  to  the  pardon  of  finne,tcachcth 
us  to  deny  ungodlint^e  andrvorUly  lufis,  And  to  live  godlj^ 
jufily  Andfoberly  in  this  prefent  eviU  tforld.  Such  as  give  up 
their  names  to  Chrift,  muft  not  looke  to  be  lavvlefie ;  but 
theycome  totake  ayoakcuponthem,  and  (land  obhgcd 
to  fulfill  the  law  of  Chrift,  called  the  new  Comman- 
dement. 

Want  of  believing  the  precepts  is  the  caufe^why  many 
doc  ftill  continue  in  the  pra(5lire  of  divers  things  inconve- 
nient, and  fufl-<;r  inordinate  pafTions  to  hold  them  under. 
Ignorance  or  carclefnefle  in  this  point,  is  the  caufc  why 
fome  of  the  better  fort  of  people  are  ofl-'and  on,  now  for- 
ward then  backward,  fcarce  ietled  or  flayed  at  any  time : 
not  knowing  how  to  fet  upon  the  practife  of  repentance; 
how  to  begin  or  to  proceede  therein  :  Whereas  this  faith 
much  availeth  to  the  furthering  of  the  deare  Children  of 
God  in  a  godly  courfe,  the  lliunning  ofevillj  and  the  pra- 
ctice of  holinelTc. 

True  faith  is  an  obfequious  confidence,  which  carricth 
a  man  whitherfoever  he  iLall  fee  the  Lord  to  goc  before 
him.  By  faith  Hlr«<»f^  walked  with  God;  ^N^jj/iA  builded 
an  Arke ;  iyibraham  offered  up  his  fonne  Ifaac :  Mofes  re- 
fufed  to  be  called  the  fon  o^VharAohs  daughter.  Our  pre- 
fent  faith  or  trufl:  in  God  is  but  commejifurable  to  our  fidc- 
h'ty  in  his  Commandements :  ere  we  can  make  a  faithful! 
plea  for  mercy,  Gods  will  negleded  muft  be  executed,ei- 
ther  in  acfl.if  the  ob/ecfl  be  prefent.and  may  be  profecuted; 
or  i\\  fincere  and  conftant  refoIutior,if  abilities  and  oppor- 
tunities,required  to  execution  of  what  we  refclve  upoHj 
be  altogether  wanting,  orourendeavotirs  upon  inevitable 
occnfions  hindred. Faith  worketh  by  love,  which  conftrai- 
neth  men  to  doe  the  will  of  God ,  and  fubmit  themfelves 
to  his  holy  Commandements.  The  ftrength  of  faith  to  it 
feverall  objefts  is  uniforme,that  aflurance  of  forgivenefle 
cannot  be  greater  then  care  of  obedience.  The  very  con- 
fcioufneflc  of  any  one  finne ,  whereunto  we  have  beene 
indulgent ,  will  be  of  like  force  to  withdraw  our  alTent  j 

B  b  2  from  1 


371 


iit.i.  1 1,11. 


Mat.ii.i8,89 
Job.  I  J.J  4. 


Hcb.ii.?,7,8, 
9,10,  &c. 


Gal.5.6. 


fsi^ 


what  it  is  t$  live  by  Faith  touching  the 

from  Gods  mercy,  as  the  delight  or  plcafurc  of  that 
fcnfuall  objeftwas  to  caufe  us  to  tranfgrefle  anypart  of  his 
will  revealed.  The  lame  ftrcrgth,  beauty  had  to  allure  un- 
to adultery ,  will  that  foule  finne  j  unrepented  of,havc  to 
divorce  our  fculcs  from  Chrift.Nor  can  we  faile  in  pra- 
diceoftbis  or  otherCommandements,without  a  precedent 
dePefl  of  that  faith ,  which  onely  can  firmely  unite  us  unto 
Chrifl: :  whereby  likewife  were  it  firme  it  felfcwe  fhould 
aflent  unto  every  precept  of  God  as  much  better  then  any 
incompatible  good. 

That  ad  cannot  plcafe  God  ;  which  is  not  animated  by 
faith  .•  for  it  is  but  the  naked  carkafle  of  a  good  worke, 
without  life  or  fouIe,if  that  be  wanting.  It  is  faith,  which 
impelleth  to  worke  righteoufneffe,  and  puttcth  life  and 
vigour  into  the  worke  wrought :  fo  that  the  bcft  workes 
of  the  regenerate  be  dull  aid  live' effejitfaith  be  dormant, 
and  put  not  forth  it  felfc  for  a  time. 

And  when  a  Chriftian  knowes  nor,  whether  he  (hall 
have  ftrength  to  doe  what  God  requireth  •  nor  whether 
God  hath  given  him  any  promife,  that  his  burden  flaall  be 
made  light,  and  that  Chrili  will  beare  the  grcateft  part  of 
it  for  him,  it  muft  needs  be  very  tedious  and  troublefome; 
it  will  occafion  many  feares  and  doubts,  deadnefle,  and 
unchearefulneffc.  This  killeth  the  heart  of  right  good 
Chriftians,when  they  are  ignorant,  or  not  throughly 
informed,  that  God  will  make  them  able  and  fit  for  fo 
great  a  worke,  as  the  leading  of  a  godly  life.  But  if  they 
have  this  faith  as  a  foundation  to  uphold  them,  they 
(hall  fooner  wade  through  their  doubts ,  and  grow  out 
of  their  feares ,  asknowingthatGodwill  be  ever  with 
them  for  their  af^iftance.  Who  doth  not  know,  that 
when  fome  certainty  of  falvation  is  obtained ,  yet  for 
all  that ,  in  afmuch  as  it  is  but  wcake ,  they  have  many 
heart-griefcs  for  this,tbat  they  fee  they  have  a  wearifome 
pilgrimage  to  gee  thorow ,  and  little  know  ledge  and 
pcrfwafionofany  great  guiding  of  them  through  all  the 
!  f«aresanddi©culties  of  it?  A  Chriftian  that  hath  this 
V  confidence 


CommMidementS)  &c* 


373 


\ 


\\ 


confidence ,  tbafGod  wiUftrengthcn  him  to  every  good 
workeybcihdl  got  about  it  with  heart  and  chearcfolncs  3 
JbcilialljbcEncourtaged  to  pray  as  bis  ncceility  {ball  'give 
caufc  ;  he  (hall  be  kept  from  fainting  and  difmaiedneffir, 
when  his  ftrengtb  is  not  very  great ;  and  rile  up  againc 
when  he  is  f  allcn^But  if  be  be  not  well  grounded  in  beiic- 
fViiigjtbat  God  will  build  him  up  more  ftrongly  from  day 
to  day,  and  perfeft  the  good  workc  in  him  which  is  be- 
gun, he  fhall  very  much ftagger  and  goe  backe.  li  a  chiefc 
&  maine  pod  in  a  building  be  vvanting,wiil  not  the  whole 
houfe  be  foone  fliakenjfo  i^  a  Chriftian,who  muft  reformc 
his  life,  goe  about  it,  not  refting  upon  the  grace  of  God  in 
Chrift  to  be  made  able,  he  mayl-)c  fHrc  he  fliall  want  a 
mainehelpehercto,  even  that  which  may  ihakc  all  riiat 
is  fet  up. 

Sundry  true-hearted  Chriftians,  very  Confcionable  in 
their  con  verfarion ,  be  yet  much  difcouraged  by  reafon  of 
thcinfirmiticsof  their bcft  duties,  and  have  little  com- 
fort in  anv  thing  they  doeybecaufe  ihcy  cjueftion  what  ac- 
ceptance 'heir  poore  ftrvicehath  with  God.  And  though; 
they  defire  to  pleale  him,  willing  in  all  things  to  live  ho- 
ned ly  ;  yet  ftill  looking  upon  their  frailties,  they  hardly 
admit  any  comfort,  becaufc  they  come  fo  farre  fhort  of 
what  is  required.  Whereas,  if  they  were  well  inftruAed 
and  aflured  of  this,  that  although,  by  reafon  of  their  cor- 
ruption dwelling  in  them,  they  can  never  offer  up  any'fa- 
crifice  to  God  without  blemilli  and  fpot  (for  which  God 
might  re/e(?t  all,  which  they  offer  unto  him)  yet  offering 
thein  up  in  the  Name  of  Chrift  they  fball  be  accepted  and 
rewarded  ;  this  would  put  life  aitd  courage  intothcm^and 
make  them  perforraic  all  holy  duties  with  more  cheare- 
fulne{reandconftancy,to£hegloryof  God,  the  comfort 
of  their  foulcs,  and  the  good  encouragement  of  others. 
Confidence  in  God  to  be  accepted,  what  tedious difputcs 
would  it  refliovc  ?  What  temptations  would  it  cut  off? 
Whatdifcouragemcnts  Would  it  traftiple  Hinder  fecte  ? 
What{trcngth.>  vigour,  rcfolution  and  forwardncfle  in  I 
; B  b  3  wel-doing\ 


Hcb.13.18. 


374 


Wha^  itktojiv^  ^y  Faith  touchtng  the 


Chrijliini  are 
allonped  to  be- 
lieve th:it  God 
will  enable  to 
obedience.', 
3c1.5i.59, 40. 


Rom.8,14. 

Verfc  2. 


iChro.iS.to. 
Ijcr.i'7,8. 
Jofii.1.9. 


wel-doiDg  wou\d-itnouri{h  and  confcrve  ?  The  ftiarpcft 
fpurrc  to  incite  unto,  and  encourage  to  goe  forward  in 
jhcwojrkcsofholineffe,  is  affiance  of  favourable 'accep- 
tation.;. 

-    Every  Chriftian  is  allowed  to  believe ,  that  God  will 

ilrengihen  him  by  his  grace  to  walke  in  obedience ,  and 

make  him  able,  through  the  hearing  of  the  Scrip:ures,  to 

caft  off Ihis  old  conversation.  For  God  hath  promifcd  in 

'Covenant,  th^the  will  reach  them  the  way  that  they  fhall 

churc,guidc  them  with  his  cye,and  put  his  feare  into  their 

hearts,  that  they  (hall  not  depart  trom  his  Commande- 

ments.  The  Spirit  ofgraceis  promifed,  and  given  to  all 

true  and  unfaincd  Believers ,  to  leade  them  into  all  truth 

and  holineffe.  As.  many  as  be  the.  children  of  God ,  they 

are  led  by  the  Spirit  of  God ;  and  the  law  of  the  Spirit  of 

life,  in  Jefus  Chrift ,  hath  freed  them  from  the  lavv  of  fin 

and  death. 

The  Lord,  when  he  fcndcth  forth  his  fcrvants  upon  any 
meffage  or  bufineflc,  doth  evermore  promifc,  to  be  with 
them,  to  aide  and  aflift  them  in   the   execution    of  ir. 
Thus  the  Lord  promifed  to  Mofes ,  gof,  and  I  will  be  with 
thj  month y  andteAch  thee  what  thoi4  Jhalt  fay   Thus  our  Sa- 
viour to  his  Difciplcs,  Z"*?,  famrvithpn  a/wajes ,  even  to 
the  efidof  the  world.  And  thus  D»iW encouraged  his  Son  I 
SalomoA,  'B^ftretig  and  of  good  cottrage^  a'^d  doe  i(;feare  not 
n  r  be  dif male  d,  for  the  LordQod^zvzn  my  God,\N\\[  be  v'tth 
thee  ;  he  will  notfaile  thee  mrforfake  thee^  untill  t  hou  haft 
finiJhedAlltheworkeforthefervice    of  the    houfe   of   the 
Lord,  and  the  fame  promifc  belongeth  to^  them ,  that 
yceld  obedience  to  his  Commandeinents  5  for  the  worke 
\^  his,  and  he  will  not  faile  nor  forfake  them,that  fet  their 
hearts  and  foulesjtofcckc.him ,  and  doc  the  thing  that  is 
goodinhisfight.f  [jtoi.'.j  bcc-i  ..  \^  ij^  • ' - 

Whatfpever  the  ^ntsi>ave  and  may  beggc  in  prayer, 
according  tp^thp  will  and  pleafure  of  God^they  are  alloW" 
ed  to  believe  that  they  {hall  obtainc  it,and  be  anfwcred  in 
their  requefts  with  favourable  acccptatiQn,fo  farreas  fhall 

be 


Commandcments,  ^e. 


B7S 


be  for  their  good,  and  the  glory  of  God :  But  the  fcrvants 
of  God  have  and  doe  bcgge  grace  to  bring  forth  fruits 
worthy  repentance  andainbndracntatlife.-/  vriHrunthr 
race  efthy  Commandiments^  yvhen  th)»  fhaliin Iter gr mine 
heart.  Teach  me  the  veay  ofthyfiathtes  ,  O  Lord^anj.  I  flmlL 
keepeit  unto  the  end,  (J^'Ukc  t»c  to goe  in  the  paths  of  thy 
Commandements^  for  therein  doe  I  delight.  Teach  mei  thy 
y»ayiOLord,Imllwalkei»thy  truth:  H»ite  my  heart  to 
feare  thy  Name.  Leadt  mein  thy  truth,  and^teach  mc  ifof 
thofi  art  the  Godofmyfalvatiotiy  on  thee  doe  I  watte  all  the 
day.  HoJdup  mygoinq^s  in  thy  paths  that  r»jfoot^€psjlip  not. 
Tc^hms  thy  tray.^  O  Lord^  and  lead  me  in  a  plaine  path-^e» 
eaufe  ofmjine  fncmies. 

,  The  faithful!  have^bound  themfelvos,  by '  covenant,  dnd 
oath,  to  keepe  the  righteous  judgements  of  the  Lord.  / 
havefwerne^^  J  wi/lperforme it, that  IwiH  keepe  thy  righte- 
oHsyud^^ements.  But  they  came  not  to  this  covenant  and 
oath,  ai  truiling  in  their  owre  ftrcngth,  but  in  adnrance  of 
divine  alliftancc;  as  the  Prophet  prayeth,  I  rrill  keepe  thyi 
(latutej^  O  for  fake  me  not  utterly.  Incline  my  heart  unto  thy 
tefimonies,andnottocovetoufnejfe.  Order  my  fieps  in  thy 
»ordj  and  let  not  any  iniquity  have  dominion  over  me.  Afake 
thy  face  to  fhine  upon  thy  fervant ,  and  teach  mee  thy  fia" 
tutes. 

God  will  perfe(n:  the  faving  worke,  which  he  hath  be- 
gun in  any  of  his  children  :  for  the  gifts  that  flow  from 
his  etcrnall  and  free  grace  arc  without  repentance.  God, 
who  calieth  us  according  to  his  purpofc,  is  faithfull,  who 
will  alfo  confirme  us  unto  the  end,  that  we  may  be  blame- 
lefle  in  the  day  of  the  Lord  Jefus  Chrift.  ^aul  hith,  he  li- 
ved by  faith  in  the  Sonne  of  God ,  by  whom  he  was 
ftrengthened  with  ability  to  perf ormc  whatfoeverwas  re- 
quired of  him.Notwithftanding  all  the  hope  of  helpe  that 
he  had,  yet  he  comphiheth  of  the  rebellion  of  his  .fleHi, 
which  did  mightily  refift  the  Spirit  in  him  :  But  ftill  he 
was  confident  in  the  prdmifeof  God,that  he  ihould  be  de- 
livered from  every  evill  worke ,  and  prcfcrved  unto  the 
B  b  4     hea-\ 


Pr^I.iid.j2,53 

Veifc  35. 
Pral.8  6.  II. 


Pfal.z^f. 
Pfal.i7.y. 

PUlt7..ii 


3- 


i  King,  x; 
Nchem.i«.z9. 


pnii.iip.i. 

Verfe  56. 
Vcife  J  5  y. 


1  Cor.  1.8,9. 

Phi(.i.6. 

2  Theil.  J.  14. 

Gal.a.20. 
PhiU'JJ. 


Rom.  7.  1 9. 


t  Tim. 4. 18. 


i-y- 


37d 


jdH^tf  faith 
tduehing  obedi- 
ence required. 
I. 


Pfal.  119.^7, 

98,99. 

PfaUiij.ii- 

Z. 

1  }oh.  $.  4- 

Phil.3.8. 


Matth.i»3.44. 


jy/frff  itist^Uve  i^  F^il^  mshing  the 

heavenly  kingdorac  Now  in  all  this  7*<««/had  no  peculiar 
prerogative  above  other  Chrillians-.buc  what  he  cxpcAcd 
frofn  Godj  they,  inayall  hopcibr. 

71^^%  of  faith  toaching  that  d3cdience,  whicb  we 
owe  unto  God  in  Chrift,  are  thcic  or  the  like. 

Firft,  It  mikes  a  man  wife  to  dilccrne  what  is  lawful!, 
good,  and  fcafonable,  both  in  rcfpe<S  of  the  worke ,  the 
meanesjand  cjrcumftanccs  of  it.'P^z^**:^ faith,  he  was  wifcr 
; then:  his  £«aiwi««  >  then,  his  Teacher i  ,  then  the  ty^nci- 
fnt :  and  herendcrs  the  caufe  thereof,  troin  thevA  o^ke  of 
his  faith;  for  thy  tcftitnonies  are  er-tr  rrtth  me,  zhey  arc 
t»jf»editatioHy2itidt.hcmen  of  my  cofmfcU  with  whom  I 
advife.  ^-•"' 

Secondly,  Itcurbcs  and- brtdles  ieordinalce.  pifliolns, 
and'overcomes  all  impediments,  temptations,  jdiiSicuhies 
and  allurements  to  the  contrary.  Thu  is  the  viEiory 
wherehj  wee  overcome  the  "world ,  even  our  faith.  For  faith 
being  wel«rooted  ,  poffcding  the  heart,  and  having  its 
force  united  by  clofe  rcpofall  therein,  commands,  every 
delight,  affedlion  or  pleafurc  of  our  ioulcs,  and  breakes 
the  violence  ofevery  inclination  contrary  to  fuch  motion 
as  it  fuggefts  j  feeing  no  hopes  can  be  equall  to  the  reward 
,  whichkpropofethtothcconllantandrefblute,  no  feares 
comparable  to  the  terrors  which  it  reprefents  to  the  neg- 
Iigint  ot  flothfull  followers  of  fuch  courfds  as  it  pre- 
fcribcs. 

What?  that  faith  fets  an  ineftimable  price  upon  the 
pcarleof  the  GofpeU,accounting  all  other  tilings  as  droffe 
and  dung  incomparifon,;  which  cauleth  a  free  and  advi- 
fed  renouncing  of  all  incereft  in  the  world,  the  fleih,  and 
all  their  appurtenances,  for  affurance  of  it ,  with  zs  great 
willingnefle  as  good  husbands  forfake  bafc  tenements,and 
hard-rented  Icafcs,  to  compafle  fome  goodly  royalty  and 
large  ptofrelfionsjoftcred. them  more  then  halfe  for  no- 
thirtg.  ^  :  ^  .  ^ 

-  Agalne,  faith  6ghteth  againft  temptations  and  inticc- 
ments  unto  finne'by  the  power  of  Chrift,  which  cannot  be 

van- 


CommmderntntSi  ^c. 


vanqui(hcd,  Sathan  and  the  world  arc  too  ftrong  for  us, 
(landing  in  our  ownc  might :  but  by  the  grade  ot  God, 
leaning  upon  his  power ,  we  reniainc  invincible.  The 
flrengthotnaurc  is  corrupt,  feeble,  and  defiled  through^ 
finne  J  and  therefore  the  truth  which  it  taketh  hold  of,  it 
hath  not  effcrtually.  But  faith  hath  joyned  with  it  the 
infpiration  of  God,  and  the  power  of  the  holy  Ghoft, 
and  th  refore  it  taketh  hold  of  the  truth  eftccfVually. 
Wherefore  this  difference  is  not  in  the  truth  it  fclfe^ 
but  'w\  the  meane  and  inftrument  whereby  we  em^ 
brace  it.  Hereof  it  commeth,  that  by  faith  we  are 
changed ,  but  in  the  other  cafe  we  remaine  the  felfe- 
fame  that  we  were  before.  A  cleare  teftimony  of 
this  we  have  in  the  Gofpcll.  Chrift  fet  forth  to  the 
young- man ,  what  he  fhould  doe  to  obtaine  falvation  : 
but  when  he  heard,  he  was  not  perfwadcd  to  obey ,  but 
went  away  forrowhiU.  Contrari  wife  Matthew,  fo  foonc 
as  he  was  called,  embraced  the  fame  with  fo  great  faith, 
that  he  left  his  money  and  Cu(\omer-fhip  ,  and 
ftraight-way  followed  Chrift.  And  Zae'icw  when  he 
had  heard  of  the  Lord,  that  he  would  turne  in  unto  him,  | 
he  not  onlv  received  him  into  his  houfc  with  a  glad  heart, 
but  alfo  offered  immcdiatly  to  diftributc  halfe  Ws  goods 
to  the  poore  and  to  reftore  foure-fold,if  he  had  defrauded 
any  man. 

Indeed  paffions  are  not  fo  bridled,  nor  corruptions  fo 
killed  that  they  doe  not  ftirre,&.'  refift  the  worke  of  faith  : 
But  the  force  and  power  of  them  is  fo  farre  fubdued,  t'^^t 
they  rhall  not  raigne,or  hale  us  ordinarily  to  that  which  is 
cvill.  Whatfoever  inordinatcneffe  faith  can  efpie,it  doth 
prefentlycondcmnc  before  the  throne  of  grace,  and  en- 
deavour the  killing  of  it  by  the  power  and  efficacy  of 
Chrii^s  death  ,  which  it  doth  happily  effecft  in  meafure, 
and  by  degrees.  Haft  thou  then  beene  long  kept  under  of 
(omt  violent  paflion,  ftrong  corruption ,  or  cuftoi"nary 
vice,  againft  which  thou  h^ft  refolved  and  refolved,  bur 
not  prevailed  or  gotten  vi^ory  ?  Get  thee  to  Chrift,  and 


577 


Matth  19.11. 
M.itth.9  ^, 
Luke  xp.  8. 


< 


f 


178 


iFct  1.4. 
Ephef.  ?.I7' 
I  John  4, -f. 


What  it  if  tit  live  hy  Faith  tonching  the 

by  faith  thou  (halt  draw  vertue  from  him  to  cure  thy  in- 
firmities. Die  to  thy  felfc,  renounce  tic  brol^en  reed  of 
thine  owne  free-willj  which  hath  fo  often  deceived  thcc: 
and  put  all  thy  truft  in  the  grace  of  Chrift,  and  it  will  cru- 
cifietheold  man,  and  give  him  his  deaths  wound.  Be 
weake  in  thy  felfe,  and  Urong  in  the  Lord,  and  through 
faith  thou  rhalt  be  more  then  conquerour.  Digge  up  the 
fallow  ground  of  thy  heart,  that  the  word  of  the  King- 
dome  may  take  deeper  roote  in  it,rai(e  thy  foulc  to  an  ho- 
ly admiration  of  the  promifes  of  life ,  ftirre  up  thy  felfe  to 
cleave  and  adhere  firmcly  to  the  grace  of  God:as  faith  in- 
creafcth ,  the  power  ot  corruption  will  languifh  and  dc- 
creafe.  Admirable  is  the  efficacy  of  faith  wtll  planted  in 
the  heart,  it  cafteth  downp  ftrong  holds,and  brings  every 
imagination  ip.tofubjedion. 

Thirdly,  It  inableth  to  obey :  for  it  purifieth  the  heart, 
fcafoneth  every  faculty  of  foule  reafonablcanJ  fenfuall, 
!  qualifieth  and  ftrengtheneth  our  naturall  inclinations  to 
I  good,  and alrereth the  tafte of  every  appetite.  By  faith 
!  we  are  partakers  of  the  divine  rature  :  by  faith  Chrift 
I  dwcllcth  in  our  hearts :  by  faith  we  receive  the  Spirit  of 
\  promife,  who  is  greater  then  he  that  is  in  the  world  ;  No 
marvell  then,  if  that  be  fweete  and  delightful!  to  the  be- 
lieving heart,  which  is  tedious  and  irkclome  to  the  unre- 
gcnerate.  How  came  T)avid  to  that  high  delightin  Gods 
lervice,  thst  he  loved  the  commandements  of  God  more 
then  thoufandsofgold  and  filver,  the  honey  and  the  ho- 
ney combe  ?  That  he  rofe  at  mid-night  to  meditate  in 
them,  was  it  rot  by  faith?  The  grace  of  Chrift,  the 
power  of  the  Spirit,  and  the  Word  of  life,  doc  change  the 
difpofiticn  of  the  (oule,(o  farre  as  they  enter  and  be  recei- 
ved into  it :  But  by  faith  their  vcrrac  is  diffufed  into 
the  whole  mafle.  '    "    • 

Fourthly ,  Admirable  in  force  and  efficacy  is  the  pcr- 
fwafion  of  faith  ,  above  all  the  Oratory  in  the  world.  All 
the  common  inducements  taken  from  profit,pleafure,  ho- 
nour, what  poorc  and  Weake  engines  are  they  to  the  irre- 

fiftiblc 


Comman dements y  ^c. 


fiftiblc  arguments  of  faith,  by  which  it  movcth  the  heart 
to  yeeld  willing  and  chcarcfuU  obedience.  Thus  it  gocth 
to  worke  with  us,  HathChrift  given  himfelfe  for  thee, 
forgi\  en  thee  fo  many  debts,confcrred  favours  of  all  kinds 
upon  thee,  and  what  haft  thou  to  retribute  Mf  thou  give 
all  thy  goods  to  the  poore,  thy  body  to  the  fire,  thy  loulc 
to  1  is  fervice,  were  not  all  ilicrt  of  rccompence  ?  Lovcft 
thoujloveft  thou  this  Saviour  of  thine,  and  dared  thou  ad- 
j  venture  upon  any  thing  diipleafmg  unto  himMs  there  any 
thinf?  too  hard  to  be  done  for  his  lake  ?  too  deare  or  good 
(for  him  ?  Whom  haft  thou  in  heaven  or  earth  worthy  ro 
[beaffdedincomparifonuf  thy  Saviour?  What  is  to  be 
dreaded  but  his  difpleafure?  Is  there  any  rccompence  to 
I  tie  /oyes  of  Heavenfany  danger  to  the  tormi  nts  of  Hell  ? 
any  plealiireto  the  fenfc  of  his  favour  ?  O  my  foule  why 
doeft  thou  not  rcfignethy  fcUe  to  the  p;calurc  of  his  will 
in  every  thing,  runne  when  he  callcth,  a;id  doe  what  hee 
requircth  at  thy  handi?What  doit  thou  fcarc? Wherewith 
art  thou  intangled  ?  God  is  thy  foveraigne,  thy  Fathcr,thy 
Saviour;to  him  thou  oweft  thy  fclfe,and  all  that  thou  haft, 
thy  honour,  wealth,  life,  or  if  any  thing  be  more  pretions 
then  the fc. Thou  canft  not  lovethv  felfeas  is  meete,ifthou 
denie  not  thy  felfe  to  follow  the  Lord  in  all  things.  For  in 
keeping  his  Commandemcnts  there  is  great  reward.  Can, 
or  did  any  Believer  ever  give  the  nay  to  thefe  melting 
comma!ds,or  commanding  intreaties  of  faitl.?\Vill  it  take 
the  repulfe?Do:h  it  not  conftraine  or  extort  more  then  all 
rackes  andftrapadoesj  allure  more  then  all  wage*  and  pri 
zcsfVVhen  thou  wouldft  be  lure  to  fpecde,  &  obtaine  any 
thing  of  thine  owne  untoward  heart  ,fet  faith  on  worke  to 
make  the  motion,  and  thou  ibalt  prevaile.For  the  motives 
ef  faith  are  certaine,evident,and  fuch  as  caufe  firme  aiTent, 
whereby  the  heart  is  drawne  to  follow  after  the  thing 
propoled. 

Fiftly,  It  difpof  th  and  moveth  the  heart  to  abfolute, 

uniforme  unpartiall,and  conftant  obedience  to  every  com- 

mandemcnt,  and  that  in  one  eftatc  afwell  as  another.  In 

Scrip- 


319 


-y]     380 


Deut.jo.20. 

&  I  I.  22. 

1  King.  18.^. 
Jofli  2^.  8. 

Ads  II.2J. 

Pfal.  115.JI. 
Heb.ii.5,53' 


Cant.8.7,8. 


'fPfaUj.B. 


Luke  7.47. 


Tj^/^4^  />  />  /<?  //1'tf  ^jf  F4/>/y  tOHching  the 


ScripturCjto  believe  in  Chrilljand  to  keepe  the  Comman- 
demcnts  mutually  infcrrfc  one  another,  cither  capable  of 
others  properties.  Faith  includos  the  compleatc  arid  pra- 
dicall  knowledge  ofgood  and  evill,  inclining  the  facul- 
ties of  our  foule  to  avoid  all  commerce  with  the  one,  and 
embrace  every  branch  ofthe  other.  It  framcththe  Image 
ofGodor  Chriftin  our  minds,  and  propofeth  him  as  a 
patterne  tor  our  imitation  in  all  our  vvorkes,thoughts,and 
refolutions :  It  acknowledgeth  his  foveraignty,  aflenteth 
faithfully  to  his  will  &  pleafure^embraceth  foundly  every 
part  ofthe  holy  truthofGod,  and  fticketh  lb  fafl:  that  no- 
thing can  come  betwixt  the  heart  and  it :  from  whence 
ilTueth  univerfall  refpe<ft  to  all  and  every  precept.  Faith 
dothnot  admit  one  part  of  the  Word  and  exclude  another; 
nor  receive  it  barely  into  the  Hcadjand  iTiut  it  forth  ofthe 
heart, ;  but  entertaineth  it  wholly,  difFufeth  the  vcrtue  of 
it  into  every  power  ofthe  fonle,and  changeth  the  naturall 
difpofition  into  the^quality  of  the  truth.  And  thus  by  faith 
\  the  foiile  is  kindly  difpofed  to  follow  the  Lord,  ^w hither- 
j  foever  he  goeth  before  us.  If  the  heart  be  dull  and  unto- 
I  ward, the  beftcourfetorcdrcflc  what  is  out  ofordcrjs  by 
\  ^quickening  our  aflcnt  to  the  good  pleafure  of  his  com- 
mand, and  our  confidence  in  hiswiercy. 

Sixthly,  Itiircs  the  heart  with  fuch/an  indefatigable  and 
unquenchable  lovcjthat  in  comparifon  of  obedience  it  c6- 
temneth  the  whole  world.  For  it  acquaintcth  with  the  in- 
comprchenfible  mercy  and  fevourof  God  towards  us  in 
giving  his  Sonnejpardoning  and  forgiving  manifold  oifen 
cesjlading  us  with  his  daily  bleilings  :  It  reprclenteth  the 
ineftimable  joy ,  that  is  prepared  for  them  that  walke  be- 
fore God  in  holinefie  and  righteoufncfTe  :  and  this  cnfla- 
mcth  the  heart  *to  follow  hard  after  the  Lord.  When  by 
faith  we  difcernc  what  love  the  Lord  bcareth  unto  us,  wc 
cannot  but  returne  love  for  love.Many  finnes  arc  forgiven 
her,  therefore  flie  loveth  much. 

And  from  all  thcfe  adts  it  followcih,  That  what  a  tem- 
porary believer  doth  by  the  halves,  fopcrficially,  or  with 
an 


Comman dements y  ^c. 


an  halting  divided  heart,  that  the  true  and  unfair.cd  belie- 
ver takes  in  h:,nd  with  an  imire,  ioand, upright  affcdion. 
What  in  the  one  is  a  liveleffcaftion,  the  out-fide,  or  car- 
caflTe  of  a  good  worke ;  that  in  the  other  is  a  good  worke 
indeedjfpringing  from  an  hcly,  wel- planted  confidence  ifi 
the  mercy  of  God,  t\:  refolute  adherence  to  his  Comm.m- 
demcnts,  which  ("as the  animall  faculty)  impels  to  that  ex- 
ercife.The  fclfe-fame  duties  may  be  done  by  the  civill  man 
and  ty  the  believer  for  the  out-fidc  and  dcede  done  :  both 
may  goc  to  Church,hearc  a  Sermon,  reade  a  Chapter,give 
an  Almes,  make  a  Prayer  ;  but  the  one  goeth  as  a  Beare  to 
theftakein  comparifonofthe  other ,  who  is  moved  by 
faith  tor  let  the  civill  mans  delight  be  as  it  may,  his  a(^s 
are  livcleffe,  becaufe  they  ifluc  not  from  an  obcdientiall 
confidence  in  the  Lords  mercy. 

Seventhly,  Faith  makes  fcnfiblc  of  our  manifold  dc- 
fedij,  infirmities,  and  failings,  faintings  and  coolings^  It 
fliewes  how  weakc  we  arc  of  our  felves ,  how  farre  we 
come  (liort,how  apt  we  are  to  decline  and  ftart  afide.  And 
this  confideration  of  faith  hath  blefied  cfFedls. 

Firft,  It  caufethferious  and  attentive  meditation  upon 
the  Word  of  God,  that  it  may  finke  decpe  ai,d  abide  firmc 
in  the  heart.  7  ^4t.'f  W  Qor  rr(f4/»rfdi  uf\  thy  Commande- 
ments  in  my  heart,  that  I  might  notjtnne  agalnfi  thee.  And  to 
this  purpofe,  a  believer  will  not  be  negligent  to  watch  all 
opportunities,  when  his  foule  is  throughly  afFe6\ed  with 
unexpc(5led  matter  of  forroWj/oy,griefe,feare,admiration 
or  the  like,  and  forthwith  to  apply  fuch  paflagcs  of  Scrip- 
ture, as  fute  beft  to  the  pr^  fent  affedions. 

Secondly,  Ttworketh  the  heart  often  and  deliberately 
to  renew  its  refoIution,not  truding  in  our  ownc  ftrength, 
but  in  the  grace  of  God.  /  have  fworne,  and  will  performe  it 
(truftingupon  thy  divine  grace,without  which  we  can  do 
nothing)  that  I  rr  ill  keep e  thy  rii^hteout  Indgemtnts. 

Thirdly,  It  ftirres  up  earneft,  confta  t,and  hearty  pray- 
ers, to  be  taught  in  the  law>uphcld,  eftablifhed  and  confir- 
med. Faith  Icaneth  upon  the  Lord,  and  crieth  unto  him 

for 


381 


»if 


Ads  1^.14, 
Pfil  1 1 9, If. 
iTal.iig.ii. 

Luk. i.5j,  66. 


pral.il9.Totf, 
Joha  15  J, 


A 


38 


Pfrl.tig.iS. 

Vctfc  <i. 
Veife  lo. 
Verfe  i8. 
FlU  1 7.?. 
iClnO'iS.iS, 

19. 


what  it  is  to  live  hj  Faith  touching  the 


Heb.n.9,10, 
iijiz^ij,  15. 

Vcrre,i7,i8. 
Verfe  3f,j6. 

Epher2,io, 

Ffal,2  7.i4. 
&  3 1.14. 
Efay  50.7, 


for  helpe,knowing  that  we  have  no  ftrength  of  our  fcl  ves. 
Open  thott  mine  eyes  that  I  may  behold  the  rs>ondretu  things 
oMt  dfthj  Uw,  O  that  wy  wayet  wire  dir€B:sdto  kfepe  thy 
ftatpjtes.  iVith  ntj  whole  heart  have  I  [ought  thee^  O  let  me 
not  wander  fiom  thy  Commandewents.  My  (oulemeltethfor 
heavificfe  :  flrengthen  theu  me  according  to  thy  word.  Hold 
up  my  goings  in  thy  paths,  that  my  fool fieps  flip  not. 

Eightly,  It  doth  confirme  in  obedience,  and  pricke  for- 
ward therein,  though  it  be  in  manifold  and  bitter  pcrferu-^ 
tions :  It  puts  into  us  bo  h  courage  and  conftancy  to  fight 
i  againfl:  the  (lirongcft:  lufts,  and  fet  upon  the  pra<5l:icc  ot  the 
I  moft  difficult  duties,  notwithrtandirg  a  I  oppolition  from 
j  the  World,  or  the  Divel!;yca,  though  we  have  bccne  foi- 
j  led,  or  taken  the  repulfe.  He  will  net  fearethe  lubduing 
I  of  the  moG:  hcad-drong  pafTion,  who  reQcth  upon  God 
!  for  power  and  ability;  nor  be  difmaycd  becaufc  once  he 
I  hath  received  a  foile,  v\  ho  depends  upon  God  for  lircngth 
■  to  recover ;  nor  dread  the  might  of  his  greateftadverlary, 
i  who  knoweth  that  God  will  be  at  his  right  hand  to  fu- 
i  ftaircandftrengthenbim;  nor  flart  afide  in  the  moQ  dif- 
t  ficult  cuty,whofe  heart  is  faft  linked  unto  the  Lord , and  re- 
!  lieth  upon  his  grace  to  be  enabled  unto  whatfoever  he  is 
i  plcafed  to  call  him.  By  faith  ttXhahum  i^ojourncd  in  the 
Lmd  of  promife,  and  minded  rot  to  rcturne  to  his  native 
Country  ,though  he  had  opportunity  .By  faith,  being  tried 
of  God,  heoftcred  up  Ifaac  :  and  he  that  had  received  the 
promifes,  offered  up  his  onelj  begotten  Sonne.  By  faith  fome 
were  tortured^not  accepting  deliverance^  fomcfionedj  feme 
JltJtnewith  the /word, 

Faithercouragethtoconftancyin  wel-doing,  by  affu- 
ring  of  Gods  all- feeing  prcfence ,  powerful!  proteaion, 
continuall  aiTiftancCjgracious  acceptance,good  fucccffc,  &- ' 
everlafting  recompence  :  'Se prong  intheLord^andin  the 
poroer  of  his  might.  TVaite  oh  the  Lord:  bee  of  good  courage, 
aniheefljallHrengthen  thine  heart.  For  the  Lord  God  m/l 
■helpe  me  J  therefore  Jh  all  I  not  be  confounded:therefore  have  I 
fet  my  face  like  flint, anil  kpoyv  that  IfhaUnot  be  confounded 
, Let 


Comm  An  dements  J  o'C. 


383 


V  X 


Heb.15. 1^,14 


Let  m  goe forth  therefore  unto  him  v^ithont  the  Campe,  bea 

rhg  his  reproach.  For  here  yve  hate  no  coKtinuing  Ci'Jf,  bj^t  J 

wcfeeke  one  to  come.  Bjfdifh  Moies  didchufe  rather  rofuiftrr  ; 

affliBlon  with  the  people  of  God,  then  to  enjoy  the  pie  li fires  of  \\.h.  1 1.  s  j,  r  ^ 

ftnnefor  nfeafon  ;  efieemin^  the  reproach  of  Chriji  greater  i 

riches  thep$  the  treafures  0/ Egypt :  for  he  had  rijpetl  unto 

the  recompence  ofrewarJ. 

But  fJith  that  continually  drives  forward  to  doe  good 
vvorkes,  doth  ever  force  the  believer  to  cenie  himielfcjc^ 
acknowledge  it  to  be  the  mercy  of"  the  Lord  in  Chrili, 
that  he  is  not  confounded.!  hough  a  man  be  plentifully  la- 
den with  good  workes ;  ^ct  faith  doth  ever  prcfer.t  him 
before  the  throne  of  grace  as  poore  and  miferablcdefiring 
of  racerc  mercy  to  be  received  and  accepted : It  confcfleth 
the  manifold  imperfedions  of  our  beft  workes,  acknow- 
ledgeth  every  grace  and  good  worke  to  be  of  God  &  ne- 
ver looketh  to  workes  further  then  as  they  be  hgnes  of 
grace,  effecfls  of  faith,  and  qualifications  of  that  fubjedl, 
whicli  makes  faithfull  plea  to  theKingdome  of  Heaven, 
through  the  free  mercy  of  God  in  Jefus  Chrift- 

But  how  fhould  a  Chriftian  quicken  faith  to  the  chear- 
fuU  pradice  of  that  duty ,  whereunto  he  findes  himfelfe 
dull  and  fluggifli  ? 

Firft,  He  muQ:  acknowledge  and  bcwaile  his  duhicfle 
and  floath,  make  it  hatefull,  and  fhame  himfelfe  for  it  be- 
fore God.  O  Lord ,  I  cannot,  I  defire  not  to  hide  from 
thee  mine  indifpofition,  and  unfitneiTe  to  any  holy  duty  j 
howdull,remifle,  fleigbty  lam  in  the  praflifc  of  true: 
piety  and  godlinelTe.  I  finde  more  life,  diligence,  cheare- 
fulneffe  m  any  worldly  bufinefle,  then  in  the  workes  of 
holineflc  which  thou  required.  Cur  fed  is  the  mun  that 
doth  the  rvor^e  of  the  Lord  negligently  ;  who  hath  a  male  in 
his  fiockey  andojfereth  the  halt  or  lame  unto  the  Lord,  What 
ismy  portion,  if  I  lliouldbe  dealt  with  in  j'u'lice,  who 
have  negle(fled  my  duty, and  facrificed  that  which  is  tome 
and  (ickc  unto  the  great  King  and  Lord  of  hofts,  whofe 
name  is  dreadfull  among  the  Heathen  ?  It  is  hatefull  in  a 

fer-l 


''^feaKC!  to 

]U!c'icnour 
(elves  to  the 
praLjife  of  ok- 
ci!cn:e- 


Jcr.4<?.i.. 
Mil./.  14, 


384 


What  it  is  to  live  by  Faith  touching 


/^^ 


fcrvant  to  do  his  worke  by  the  halves  :fpecia  I  ly  if  he  owe 
himfelfe  unto  his  Mafter  for  undeferved  kindneffes:What- 
focver  I  am ,  I  h.wc  received  it  of  the  Lord :  all  polfiblc 
duty ,that  can  be  performed  of  areafonable  creature,!  owe 
unto  him  •  he  hath  obliged  me  unto  his  highncffc  by  ma- 
ny great,  undeferved,  incomprchcnfiblemcrciesjthat  lam 
never  able  to  repay,  or  fufficiently  to  acknowledge  :  and 
in  me  it  is  mod:  abhominable  that  I  have  beene  halting  and 
deceitfull  in  what  he  commandeth.  Can  any  man  delervc 
that  duty  from  another, that  thou,  O  Lord,  haft  and  doft 
deferve  of  me  ?  Can  he  be  in  fuch  dependance  unto  ano- 
ther, as  I  am  unto  thy  Ma  jefty,  in  whom  I  live,  move, 
have  my  being ;  by  whom  I  am  preferved,redeemed,and 
called  unto  life  ?  If  the  idle,  untrufty,  deceitfull  fervant 
mcritftripes.-myfleightneflb  and  double  dealing  in  the 
exercifcs  of  Godlinefle,  is  worthy  fhameand  confuHon  of 
face  for  evermore.No  marvell,  If  I  findc  fmall  comfort  in 
life,  fecle  no  power  and  fweetnefle  in  the  ordinan<:es  of 
grace,  when  I  dealc  partially,  heare  pcrfundf orily,  pray 
coldly,  labour  I'ot  to  fcede  upon  the  word,  and  fucke  vi- 
gour out  of  it.  The  duties  of  courtefie  lofe  their  worth  and 
cfteemc  with  men,when  wrung  from  us  by  importunacy, 
or  followed  with  a  (lacke  h^nd.-Lordjthou  loveft  a  chcarc- 
fuU  giver ,delighrcft  in  willing  and  free-hearted  offerings; 
with  what  face  then  can  I  prefcnt  unto  thy  Majcfty,  or 
how  fhouldeft  thou  take  pleafure  in  that  maimcd,corrupt, 
unchearefull,  fuperficiall,  dead  fcrvice  which  I  per  forme  ? 
In  former  times  I  have  ferved  finne  and  Sathan  with  more 
willingnefle,  alacrity  and  paines ;  I  have  beene  ready  to 
runne  whither  the  divell  drove  me ;  lam  ftill  forward  to 
gratific  unruly  defires  with  this  or  that  they  ftand  unto, 
and  are  bent  upon.  What  am  I  but  a  fpirituall  adultcreffc, 
in  that  I  have  yeelded  the  members  of  my  body  as  wea- 
pons of  unrighteoufnes  to  doe  the  will  of  Satan,&  liftened 
to  the  motions  of  the  ficfli,  with  more  readinelTe  to  leane 
Unto  them,  then  hitherto  I  could  give  my  felfc  unto  God 
in  all  things  to  be  ruled  and  dircded  by  him  ?  O  Lord,  j 
___^  am 


Ctmmandemevts^^  c. 


am  vile,  it  is  of  thy  unfpeakcablc  mcrcic  that  thou  art 
pleafed  to  looke  f^ownc  upon  me,  or  to  accept  ofany  fcr- 
vicc  tba- 1  can  ofrcr. 

Secondly, He  muft  call  upon  his  foulc  by  many  poxverfull 
&:  ftrone  perfwafion?,to  awake  tothc  work  of  God  with 
livclineile.   Arife^O  my  fcule,  w  hy  fleepefl:  thou,(lirre  up 
thy  felfc  with  readinefle  to  obey  the  charge  of  God  m  the 
duties  of  h\%  wor  fhipjand  the  works  of  Mercy  ard  Jiiflice: 
withftandfin,  fubduc  corruptions,  fight  manfiilly  againfl 
the  tCQ^ptations  of  SatanjiS:  the  allurements  of  the  world:  | 
Stickc  fafl  unto  the  tedimonies  of  the  Lord,  and  lay  his 
judgements  before  thcr.  For  thctefiimonies  of  the  Lord 
are  wondcrfull,  his  judgements  good,  righteous  and  very 
'  faithful! :  his  word  is  very  pure  ;  and  his  1  jw  is  the  truth. 
The  fcrvice  of  God  is  pcrfcd  freedome:  he  walketh  at  li- 
berty, who  runneth  on  in  obedience.   As  thy  love  to  ihe 
law  is,  fuch  (hall  thy  life  be ;  nothing  is  hard  to  a  willing 
minde.  Want  ofaffedion  to  the  word  of  truth  makes  the 
duties  comanded  to  fecmeirkelome  a^id  tedious. Love  the 
Commandements  above  gold,  and  obedience  will  be  as 
pleafant.as  gaine  to  the  covetous.  Looke  upon  the  Saints, 
who  have  gone  before  :  they  endured  imprironmcnr.Ioflc 
of  liberty,  the  fpoiling  of  goods,  hazard  of  life  with  joy, 
looking  unto  the  eternall  and  incomprehenfible  reconi- 
pence  of  reward.Thou  art  not  called  to  fufFer,but  to  obey; 
at  leaft  not  to  fuffer  fuch  grievous  torments  as  they  did  : 
why  doeft  thou  then  delay,  ftartafide,  or  goe  forth  unwil- 
lingly ?  Wouldcft  thou  raigne  with  them,  and  not  labour 
with  them  >  receive  the  pricc,and  not  run  the  racc?dividc 
the  fpoile,  and  not  fight  the  battell  ?  In  the  affaires  of  this 
life  we  love  to  exccU,  and  out-goe  our  fellowe- ;  as  to  be 
firrt  up,and  about  our  worke ;  to  exceed  in  favour,  riches, 
honour,wiftdome ;  and  in  matters  of  Religion  to  be  dc^d 
and  lumpifh,  is  ir  notabhominablc  ?  Obedience  is  no  dull 
fcrvice,  no  dead  piece  of  worke,  but  the  way  to  bleffed- 
nes  and  the  crownc  of  glory.  The  Lord  hath  not  faid,^<r^)^ 
nue  in  vaine.  The  reward  of  obedience  is  ccrtainc, though 

C  c  our 


ssy 


2. 


PfaJ.i 
Vcrfc, 
Veiic. 


138. 


E  fay.  4  J.  19. 


•9'  , 


386 


WhAt  it  is  to  live  By  Faith  touching  the 


^' 


I  Cor.  1.9. 


5. 

Pfal.t4j.10. 


Cane  X.  4. 

Pfal.119.3j, 

Vcafc  I J  5. 


IPfal.i19.j6. 


our  workcs  dcfcrvc  nothing.  The  Merchant  undertakes 
dangerous  adventures  to  raifc  his  cftate,inrichhimfelf.But 
what  is  the  gold  of  India  to  the  joyes  of  Heaven?a  fading 
poffeflion  to  an  eternall  weight  of  glory  ?  ftrive  to  enter, 
and  goe  forward  in.  the  ftraitc  way  that  leadeth  unto  life 


: 


prai.11^57. 

112. 
Pfal.n9.i33 


Arile,  why  tarried  thou  ?  forget  not  the  high  price  of  thy 
callingjbut  contend  forward  towards  the  marke.  Heaven 
is  worth  all  thy  labour.  We  are  glad  to  be  entertained  of 
them,  vvho  have  a  name  to  be  liberall  &  bountifull  to  their 
attendants ;  who  is  to  be  compared  to  the  Lord  our  God 
herein  ?  He  is  mofl:  able,  and  befl  willing  to  prcfcrrc  his 
fervants.Eye  hath  not  feene.earehath  notheard,it  exceeds 
all  humane  capacity  to  conceive,vvbat  furpafliag  glory  and 
joy  the  Lord  hath  prepared  for  tbem  that  love  him. 

Thirdly,  He  mud  pray  to  the  Lord  that  he  would  re- 
vive and  quicken  him.  Te^ich  me  to  doe  thy  willfor  thou  art 
my  God  I  thy  Spirit  ii  g0od\  IgA^  me  into  the  Und  of  upright  m. 
»e(fe.  My  defire  is  to  do  thy  good  pleafure,  but  of  my  fclfc  I 
I  have  no  ability  thereunto  :  Dravv  me  and  IrviHrunne  af~ 
ter  thee.  Teach  me  the  way  of  thy  fiatutes,  atdl  wiS  k^epe  it 
unto  the  end,  (/^ve  mee  tfnderftandingi  andljhall  keepe  thy 
Uw  ',yeay  IJhall  ehferve  it  with  my  whole  heart.  Lord  ihou 
haft  commanded  rac  to  keeps  thy  tefiimonies  j  give  me  I 
pray  thee  to  doe  what  thou  requireft.  Incline  my  heart  to 
thy  flat  Htes,  and  not  to  covetotifnejfft 

Fourthly,  He  muft  renew  his  refolution  to  walkc  with 
God  trufting  in  his  grace.  *  I  will  never ftrget  thypreccptSy 
for  with  them  thou  hafl  cjtticktied  me.  I  have  fully  purpofed 
to  keepc  and  cleave  unto  thy  Commandements,  for  they 
are  the  joy  of  my  heart.  But,  Lord  I  leanc  not  upon  mine 
owne  ftrength,  but  upon  thy  grace,  who  giveftbothto 
!  will  and  to  doc.  Thou  art  my  portion^  O  Lord)  I  have  [aid 
that  I  will  keepe  thy  words.  Order  my  flfps  in  thy  word:  and 
let  not  any  inic^uity  have  dominion  over  me, 

CHAP. 


duties  ofourvtcAtion, 


CHAP.  X. 

Whst  it  is  to  live  byfaith  in  the  e^Mtits  of 
our  vocation, 

IT  is  the  ordinance  of  God,  that  men  fliould  labour  in    chi/lianf 
fomc  honcft  vocatioHjfor  their  private  maintenance,and  |  aiiotreJto  i 


387 


are 

li've 

the  common  good,  that  is,  the  benefit  and  good  eftate  of  b'/'^'ih  in  the 

mankind  :    And  for  encouragement  he  hath  promifed  to  I  '^"^'"  ''/'^"r 

proted  and  blcflc  them  that  kcepc  themfelves  within  the 

limits,  and  doc  the  workcs  oFtheir  calling  with  dih'gence. 

The  texts  of  Scripture  are  plaine  for  both.   The  Lord  God 

tooke  the  muriy  and  put  him  int»  the  g4rdcn  0/ Eden  to  drejfe 

it,  andtokfepe  it.      Inthejweate  of  thj face Jhali  thou  e^te 

heaiy  tiU  thou  returne  unto  the  ground.    Let  him  that  fiole-^ 

fiealt  no  more,  but  rather  let  him  lab  our ,  Tvor^ngrvith 

hii  hands  the  thing  that  is  good :  that  he  may  have  to  give  to 

him  that  needeth.    Let  everjf  man  abide  in  the  fame  calling 

wherein  he  wot  called.  Study  to  be  ejuiet^andte  doe  your  owne 

bujinejfe  and  to  rvorke  with  your  orvne  hands, (oi  roe  comman- 

dedyou  )  thatyee  may  walko  honejlly  towards  them  that  are 

Tvithojit,  For  even  Vfhen  we  were  with  you,  this  rve  comman- 

dedyou,  that  if  any  man  woul^  not  worke  neither  Jhould hee 

eate.  The  hand  of  the  diligent  makethrich.  Thefubftance  of 

a  diligent  man  is^reiious.     He  that ga\hertth  by  labour fhall 

encreafe.  The  hand  of  the  diligent  fhaH,  be  are  rule*  Seefl  thou 

a  man  diligent  in  his  bufineffe  ?  hcejhalljiandbefre  Kings ^ 

hee  fhall  not  fland  before   meane  men,     Hee  fhall  give 

his   tAngels  charge  over   thee  to    keepe  thee  in  all  thy 

wayet. 

Now  feeing  God  hath  commanded  us  to  labour  in  a  cal- 
ling, prefcnbed  the  bounds  of  our  calling,  and  promifed 
his  protedion  and  bleffing  to  our  honcft  endeavours,  it 
canjiot  bee  qucftioned  whether  we  be  allowed  to  live  by 
faith  in  the  duties  of  our  calling.  For  the  cxcrcife  of  fiaith 
is  as  large  as  the  word  whereby  it  is  guided  and  modcra- 

Cc2  ted, 


vocation. 


Gcn.:.iy. 

Gen.  J.,  9, 

Ephen4.a8. 


iCor.7.10. 

»Thef.4.ii,ii 
iThcf.j.,0, 

U,I2. 

Pro.  10. 4.  & 

Pro.13,11. 
Pr0.l2.14. 


Pro.  21.25, 
Pfol.j)j.ii. 


2-/^.- 


Its  necejfa^y  to 
Iv'-byhithin 
the  duties  o/our 
vocation. 


388      1  What  it  if  t9 li ve Ity  Faith h  the 

,  ted,  that  it  neither  exceed,  nor  come  fhorr.  Where  a 
j  workc  is  commanded,  faith  puts  forth  it  fclfc  in  adion  ; 
1  where  a  promife  is  made,  it  trufteth^  relieth,  and  waiteth 
I  for  accomplifliment.  In  every  hone!^  ftatc  a;  .d  condition 
of  life  there  is  ufe  of  faith  in  both  refpe-fls :  For  labour  is 
commanded,and  promifc  of  blefling  is  made  to  them  that 
workc  according  to  the  will  and  pleafurc  of  God.Morco- 
ver ,  God  is  hereby  much  glorified ,  that  wee  com- 
mit our  felves  wholly  unto  him,  labouring  as  hec  hath 
appointed,  and  depending  upon  his  gr^cc  tor  good  fuc- 
cefle. 

It  is  ncceflary  wee  (liould  live  by  faith,  to  prevent 
theevilis  which  bef  tusinour  or:-inarJcc^i  'ngs  :  cove- 
toulneffe,  injuftice,  impatience,  and  dii trailing  care.  Na- 
turally men  are  apt  to  incumber  thernfelvcs  withluper- 
fluous  bufiiiefle,  and  trouble  theinlelves  ab  ut  the  event 
and  fuccefle  :  they  content  not  themfelves  with  their  lot 
and  condition,  but  dcfire  to  heaps  u;">  riches  arid  i^icrcalc 
their  fubftance  above  mealu  e  j  they  l-jrccalt  ma  ly  things 
in  their  heads  long  before  ;  and  know  no  md  of  their 
cares.   The  trouble  men  nieet  with  in  the  world,  begets 
love  of  the  wotldjand  whether  they  be  cr  jlTcd  >  )r  profper  j 
the  more  they  be  exercifcd  about  the  things  of  this  life , 
themorc  they  follow  after  them  wit'igreedinelTe,  vexa- 
tion, difconient,  plotting  and  deviling  how  t  >  compaflc 
their  defignes  whether  by  right  or  wrong,  fraud    top- 
prt  ffion.  The  foveraigne  remedy  againfl:  thefe  and  other 
the  like  mifchiefes,  which  vye  a-e  prone  to  runnc  into,  is 
a  lively  faith,  which  liftech  up  the  heart  to  better  tbin<^s, 
then  oughi:  is  to  be  found  under  che  Moone,  quietly  fub- 
mitteth  unto  the  good  pleafure  of  God,  comif.c  idcth 
'  the  fuccefle  and  event  of  all  honcft  endeavours  unto  his 
Highnefie,  and  refteth  upon  his  grarc  tor  preient  helpc 
i  and  future  fupply  in  the  ufe  of  luch  mear.csas  he  hathipri 
-     j  daiped.  ...   "...p 

Heb.ii.5.             PFithoHt  faith  it  is  imfojfibie  toftleafe  Goi.  God  is  the 
Au:hour  of  every  honed  vocation^and  by  his  appointment 
'  men 


duths  efourvH/tthn, 


men  ougbt  to  labour  in  fomc  particular  ftatc  or  condition 
of  life  :  but  that  work  h  rot  acceptable,  which  is  not  done 
in  faith.  If  faith  doc  not  quicken,  fcafon,  and  guide  the 
workcs  of  cur  calling,  they  are  dead  ardcarnailasthey 
come  from  uSjneitber  begun  upon  found  ground,nc  r  done 
in  uniformeand  right  manner,nor  dircdcd  to  a  right  end. 
That  which  fhould  put  life  into  the  adion  is  iblcnt,  if 
faith  be  lacking. 

Experience  is  of  great  ufe  in  a  godly  life,  both  to  con- 
firnic  faith,  ftrcngthen  hope»  preferve  love,  overcome 
temptations,  and  dirc(fl  in  difficu'ties.     But  the  ready 
mcanes  to  get  grounded  expericncejis  to  live  by  faith  in  the 
wbrkcs  of  our  vocation,  and  obferve  how  the  Lord  dca- 
Icth  with  us  therein  according  to  bis  word. 
The  a(fls  of  faith  in  this  particular  be  thefc. 
Firft,  It  informeth  to  make  choife  of  an  honeft  vo- 
cation ;  for  which  we  are  fitted ;  and  into  which  we  may 
enter,  by  direcft,  good,  and  law  full  meanes.   Hee  thut  ua~ 
derflandfth    <e  matter  Jhttll  find€  good,    faith   Solom«n :  1 
wherein  hec.  teachcth,  that  what  bufinefleany  manta- 
keth  in  hand,  hee  muft  know  it  well  and  accurately,  if  he 
lookc  to  finilli  it  honcftly  and  with  good  fucceflc.    This 
therefore  is  the  rule,  by  which  wc  arc  dircfled  in  our 
vocation,  that  what  art  any  man  knowcth,  he  (houM 
cxercife  himfelfe  in  it.   This,  as  it  muft  be  obfcrved  in  all 
arts,   fcienccs,  profcffions,  in  the  family,  Common- 
wealth, Church ;  fo,  as  every  art  or  profeffion  is  of  grea- 
ter moment  in  any  focietie  publike  or  private,  facred  or 
prophane,  it  is  with  greater  diligence,  more  ftudioufly  to 
be  looked  unto.   As  our  calling  muft  be  honeft,  that  is, 
fcrviceable  to  the  Church,  Common-wealth  or  private 
family  ;  and  as  we  muft  be  gifted  for  it  ;  fo  muft  we  en- 
ter by  lawfuU  anddireft  mearcs  appointed  of  God,  that. 
Wee  may  bee  afliired  our  calling  is  of  God,  and  that  hec 
will  accept  of  our  fcryicc  in  that  cftatc  and  condition  of 
life. 

Secondly,  Faith  inftru6lcth  not  to  meddle  above  our 

C  c  3  know- 


3^9 


The  ails  of  faith 
inrtJpeRoj  the\ 
duties  9j  our  \ 
ca/lMg. 
Pro.  15.20. 


vfu 


3Po 


what  it  is  to  live  hj  Faith  in  the 


Pro.i6.ao, 
Pro.  3.5,6. 


Pfal.ur.i,!. 
Hag.  1.6,9. 

Eccle.9,11. 


4. 

Pfil.Il8.2. 

eph.6.5j6. 


knowledge,  but  to  leane  upon  the  living  Lord,  not  on 
our  skill  or  cunning.    }Vh9  fo  trufieth  in  the  Lord  ha  ppie 
uhee,    Trufi  in  the  Lord  with  all  thine  heart,  and  leane 
not  fiata  thine  orvMe  underfianJin^  :  In  all  thy  rvajes  ac-^ 
k^invledge  him,  and  hcs  fha'l  direu  thjpathfs.    It  is  hard 
for  a  mm  very  skilfuU,  fo  to  with-drawh>s  heart  ^nd 
thought  from  his  skill,  as  chat  he  doc  not  wholly  reftin 
j  it  :  but  faith,  looking  further  then  fence  or  reaf:)ii  is  able,  | 
j  difpofleflech  the  h-art  of  this  carnall  confidence,  and 
fixeth  it  upon  the  Lord  alone.  For  it  acknowledgeth  him 
onely  to  be  the  fou.itaine  of  all  good,  and  perfvvadcrh  the 
foule,  that  unlefle  ic  rel'e  upon  his  t^race,  wifdome,  and 
ftrength,he  (hall  bring  nothing  to  pafle  by  his  o  wne  wife- 
dome,  wit  and  cunning.  For  either  he  (hall  not  effedl  what^ 
he  indeavours  to  doe,  by  ths  helpe  and  benefit  of  his  skill  •,  * 
or  if  he  bring  it  to  paffe,  it  fhall  not  fucceedor  availc  him 
to  thole  honeft  ufes  which  he  intended.  The  race  is  not  to 
thefwift^nor  the  battell  to  the  Firon^, neither  yet  bread  to  the 
wife^noryet  riches  to  men  of  under fiandingi  ner yet  favour  to 
menofsJ(ill.  .     ,  .-  . 

Thirdly,  It  quickcncth  the  mofl  skilful  workcman 
to  drive  with  God  in  prayer,  that  the  worke  hefctteth 
upon  might  fuccerd  well  andprofper;  that  is,  that  his 
skill  might  be  ready  and  at  hand,  whereby  he  might  fi- 
nifh  the  thing  bee  goeth  about,  and  that  it  might  be 
ofiife  to^them  far  whom  it  h  appointed.For  being  fenfiblc 
of  his  owne  weakeneiTe,  and  expecting  hclpe  and  fupply 
from  heaven,  he  will  not  ceafe  to  crave  the  aide  and  blef- 
(Tng  of  God.It  is  the  property  of  faith  to  pray  continually, 
looking  unto  the  moft  high  for  helpe,  and  having  a  lively 
fence  of  prefent  warit,wbich,llirrethup  a  ferious  affe^ion 
ofpraying, 

Fcfurthly,  It  caufeth  diligence^  care,  uprightnefle,  and 
faithfulnefle  in  allthework.es,  adtions,  and  bufinefTes  of 
our  calling;  as  knowing  that  whileft  we  walke  honeflly 
therein,  wee  doefcrvice  totheXord  Jefus.'  It  is  noted 
ofthevercuous,  wife,  faithfully  and  godly  woman,  that 

Jbee 


duties  ofeurvtcdtion. 


fljee  feeketh  woolly  and  flaxe,   and  tiporketh  wiBingly  with 
her  hands  :  Shee  rifsth^lfa  'whileit  is  yet  nighty  andgiveth 
meate  to  her  houjhold.  '  Faith  awakcneth  the  fluggard, 
rowfcth  the  lafie,  makcth  the  idle  lay  his  bones  to  worke, 
and  him  that  was  a  purloyncr,  to  deale  truely,  juftly,  and 
honeftly.  It  is  thcbcft  cocketo  call  up  thedrowfie  :  for 
it  ringcth  in  his  eare  j  when  wilt  thou  arife  ?  loe  the 
Lord  callcth  thee  to  thy  taske  j  why  tarricfi;  thou  fo  long, 
ftirrefl:  foflovvly  ?  The  Sunne  re/oyccth  as  a  Gyant  to  run 
his  race  :  why  fharpcncft  not  thou  thy  felfe  to  the  worke 
which  God  hath  laid  upon  thee  ?  It  is  the  willingcft 
meflcngcr  to  be  fent  upon  any  bufineflc,  the  truftiefi:  over- 
feer  oFany  hbqur,  the  moft  free  undcrgoer  of  any  toyle 
or  paines  ;  yOn  ncede  not  call. Him, to  reckoning  who. 
accounts  with  faitJi ;  nor  haft  him  forward  who  Jnoveth' 
by  faith ;  nor  chaine  him  to  his  worke,  who  by  faith  un- 
dertaketh  it.    Tor  he  is  affured  he  doth  it  unto  God,  who 
callcth  upon  him,   and  from  whom  bee  muft  cxpeifl  re- 
compence,  if  hee  walke  chearefuliy,  and  infinglenefTc' 
of  heart.    When  a  man  is  perfwaded,  that  his  calling " 
is  approved  of  God,  and  profitable  to  men,  by  helping' 
to  maintaine  the  ftate  of  the  Church  or  Common-wealth, 
and  that  it  is  that,  in  which  God  will  be  ferved  of  him  •, 
then  he  takes  it  in  hand,  not  like  a  drudge  or  droile  who 
doth  his  work  for  fearc  of  the  whip  ;  nor  like  an  hireling, 
who  workes  onely  for  wages ;  nor  like  eye-fcrvants  who 
leave  their  bufineflc  when  the  matters  eye  is  turned  afide : 
but  with  good  will,  diligence  andfingleneflc  of  heart,  he 
addrefleth  himlelfe  to  his  worke ,  being  aflured  of  Gods 
alTiftance  and  furtherance  therein,  whom  he  f  crves  in  his 
vocation.  This  perfwafionthat  we  fcrvc  the  Lord  m  our 
callings,  who  is  a  bountiful!  pay*mafter,  and  hath  promi- 
fed  a  large  blcfling  unto  us,forceth  to  goc  willingly  about 
that  vvorkcjwhicn  other  wife  would  feemetoylefomc  and 
iinpleafant.  ' 

Fifthly,  It  incourageth  to  the  moft  difficult,  painfull, 
and  ( in  the  worlds  cftccmc  )  difgraceftill  workes  of  our 

C  c  4  callings. 


;  \  '• 


391 
Pro.j  1.13,1 5. 


iChro.^4.i2. 


Ephef.5.8. 


■10 


$92 


what  it  is  1 9  live  hj  Fajth  i»  the 


a  Ef3y.7.4. 
Iofl».7.  J, 
6  Pro.  3 1, 1 7 


Hcb.11.7. 

Iiidg.1.4. 

Heb^ii.?,!*. 
Mark.  tf.  18. 


calling,  Diftmft  *  breeds  niccncffc,fcarc  and  Qaggi(hncs: 
faith  producoth  ^hardincffc,  valour,  andadivity;  Font 
affurcs  of  divine  prorc5:{oti  and  goad  fucceflc  :  Pride 
!  makes  m:n  adiamed  of  many  things,  which  in  the  world 
tTim.  x.7,8,»  bc  matters  of  difgrace :  but  raith  witncflcth,that  the  truc- 
cft  honour  is  to  be  Gods  fervant,  and  the  greateft  glory  to 
do  whatfoevcr  the  Lord  rcquireth  at  our  hands.  By  faith 
!D(jah  pr<;pareth  the  Arke,  let  the  men  of  the  old  world 
mocke  their  fill.  By  fahh  lad^h  gocth  up  to  fight  the 
Lords  battels,  whatfoevcr  danger  appeare  in  the  voyage 
Faith  bringeth  yf^r^^^iw  from  his  native  countrcy,andhi$ 
father?  houfcjto  fojoume  in  aftrangcland,whenhc  is  cal- 
led of  the  Lord.Faith  maketh  lohn  the  Baptift  bold  to  tell 
Hsred  plaincly,  that  ic  is  not  lawfull  for  bim  to  have  his 
brothers  wife,  let  him  take  it  as  he  pleafe.  Corruption 
will  fuggcft,  fuch  a  thing  befeemeth  not  a  marv  of  my 
place,breeding,  bringing  up ;  ic  would  be  taken  ill,might 
procure  difplcafurc,  trouble,  difgrace,  and  danger  :  but 
faith  Iqoketh  to  the  Word  of  God,  and  if  ic  be  a  dutie  re- 
quired, incourageth  to  fet  about  it  with  fpeed,  referring 
the  iflue  and  event  to  him  that  hath  commanded  ir,  and 
cfteemeth  it  the  greateft  credit  to  dos  the  will  and  plea- 
furc  of  the  Lord. 

Sixtly,  It  ftrengtbenethagainll  manifold  troubles,  dil- 
graces,  oppofitions,  and  difcouragemcnts  that  men  meetc 
withall  in  their  places ;  and  inableth  to  goe  through 
ftitch  with  our  bufineflfe  in  ill  report  and  good  report, 
in  honour  and  difgrace.  Diftruft  bringeth  forth  weari- 
ncflc  and  fainting:  faith  perfiftcth  in  the  worke,  notwith- 
ftanding  all  difficulties  which  may  arife,  cither  from  the 
i  dayly  continumce  of  the  labour,  or  other  impediments. 
;  Faith  either  negledeth ,  or  removeth  ,  or  breakcth 
through  all  lets  and  obftacles.  Worldliugs  and  hypo- 
crites are  diilieartncd  in  their  bufinciTc,  bccaufe  no  man 
refpcdts  their  paines,  is  well-pleafed  with  their  doings ; 
let  them  doc  what  they  can,  they  (hall  not  have  a  good 
word  :  But  the  found  believer  is  aboundantly  fatisfied 

with 


S. 


dteties  of  our  "Vctat'ion* 


with  Gods  approbation  and  reward,  and  gocth  on  chcar- 
fully,  thou(;h  men  fhcw  himno countenance,  allow  no 
recompence ;  yea  though  he  be  molcfted,  perfctuted^  im- 
prifoned,  killed  for  well-doing.  If  God  bepleafedto 
vouchfafe  other  incouragements  to  take  paines,  faith 
makes  ufe  of  them  with  tbankefulneflc  :  but  if  ibey  bee 
wanting,  it  will  not  give  place  to  negligence  or  rc- 
miflcnefle.  with  mee  it  is  a  very  fm^d  tktni  that  I 
pjonld  bee  judgtd  of  j 9 ft,  or  of  mans  judgement.  2(jr 
of  men  fought  wee  glory,  neither  of  you  ^  nor  yet  ofotherSy 
when  wee  might  have  heene  bnrdefifome  04  the  ^f,o- 
files  of  Chr/fi,  'But  what  thingr  were  gaint  to  mee^ 
thofe  I  cennted  iojfe  for  Chrifl.  Tea^  deuk/efe  and  I 
count  all  things  but  loffe,  for  the  ex.ellencie  «fthe  k^nijwledge 
ofChrifl  leftu  my  Lord :  for  whom  /have  fttfered the  fojfe 
of  all  things  ;  and  doe  count  them  but  dung  that  I  may  winni 
Chri(i. 

Seventhly,  It  dirc(H:eth  wifely  to  order  the  affaires  of 
our  calling,  and  to  goe  about  them  in  good  manner,  that 
is,  in  obedience,  to  right  ends,  and  with  an  heavenly 
Minde,  cxercifing  the  graces  that  God  hath  beftowcd  up- 
on us :  whereby  it  comes  to  paife  that  they  arc  furtheran- 
ces and  not  hinderances  in  the  duties  of  piety.  Thus  Da- 
vid behaved himfelfe  wifely  in  aB  his  wayes:^nd  being  called 
ofGod  to  the  governemcnt  of  the  kingdome,he  promifeth 
to  execute  his  office  in  uprightncfle  and  innocencie  ro  the 
prailc  of  God  :  /  wtlijing  of  mercy  andjndgement,  to  thee, 
O  Lorc\  will  Ifing . 

Eightly,  As  faith  quickencth  to  labour  and  doe  what 
pertaineth  to  our  callingjfo  it  teacheth  to  moderate  cares, 
confine  defires  of  earthly  things,  and  commit  our  felvcs 
to  God  for  the  fucceffe  of  our  workc.  Labour  is  mans 
dutic  ;  good  fucccfle  is  the  blcffing  of  God.  Men  com- 
monly take  upon  them  a  double  care  ;  one  to  doe  the 
worke$  of  their  place,  the  other  to  take  thought  about 
the  blefling  and  facccflfe  of  their  labour?. But  hith  in  Gods 
Word,  where  it  raigncs,  applieth  the  hearts  of  men  to  the 

pertor-1 


35^3 


J  7. 


^\ 


I  Cor. 


4-3. 


irtcffi  6,9, 


Pbil.3.7,8. 


7- 

Ecdc.i.z^. 
iSan).t8.i4. 

Pfal.iei.8. 

8. 


10' 


35?  4- 


Pfal.  5  J.*t. 


1  Matth.6  3  J, 
I  Pct.j-r- 


Pfal.  127.1. 
Prov.16.3. 


Pfal.4X.i. 
Pfal.  x6  5- 


)^^i^4/  />  /k  /tf  live  bj  Faith  in  the 


performance  of  their  duties,  and  leaveth  the  blelTing  of 
their  indeavours  to  the  good  will  and  picafure  of  God. 
Thus  vvc  arc  exhorted  to  doe.  Cafi  thy  burthen  upon  the 
Lerdf  andhefhaHftffiaine  thce:heJhaB  never  fuffer  the  righ. 
team  to  be  moved. 

A  Chriftian  \^  to  confider  the  difficulty  of  all  rhings 
pertaining  to  him,  and  what  danger  \^  in  them.  He  is  dili- 
gently to  fet  his  hand  to  the  worke,  and  through  negli-" 
gencc  to  omit  nothing  that  h  of  moment  to  cfFecl  and 
bring  it  to  paffe.  But  having  taken  counlell,  and  laboured 
painefuUy,  he  muft  lay  a/ide  care  of  the  cvent,&  rovylc  his 
burthen  upon  the  Lord, who  hath  promifed  that  all  things 
fliallbe  well  regarded.  And  this  faith  hath  an  infallible 
ground,  namely,  that  God  beft  knowesour  want?,  and 
will  give  us  all  things,  which  \\\  his  heav^enly  wifdom.e  he 
kno weth  to  be  neceflary.T(?«r  heaver.lyFather  knowes  that 
yee  have  need  of thefethifjgs, xhzthy^ood.znd  raiment.  C^fi 
yofir  care  on  god,  for  he  carethforyou.  Nothing  fhlll  be 
wanting  unto  them  that  feare  God.  And  thus  flith  bail- 
ding  upon  thefe  promifes,  obtaineth  a  greater  blcfling  of  | 
God  Vv'ich  lefTe  care,  toile,  and  vexation,  then  worldlings 
can  by  all  their  cunning  fhifcs,fleighrs,and  devices.  C^m- 
mtt  thy  Tvorkesmto  the  Lord,  and  thy  thoHghtsJhallbe  <?/?4- 
hlifhed. 

'  Faith  alfo  reftraineth  the  defires  of  tranfitorie  things, 
as  It  hfteth  up  the  heart  to  better  and  more  durable 
riches,  feeketh  the  Kingdomc  of  Heaven,  hungers  and 
thirftcth  after  nghteoufnefle,  fcedeth  upon  the  mercy  of 
God  m  Chrift,and  refteth  fatisfied  in  the  Lord  as  its  onely 
portion.  -■(.};.  :;;lf^;-if:Oi 

Ninthly,  It  fupportcth  with  ftrcngth  patiently  to  bcare 
the  milcries  and  calamities  that  accompany  us  m  our  cal- 
lings. Ever  fince  the  iaMof^daw,  labour  and  afflifti- 
on  attend  every  ftatc  and  condition  of  life,  both  which 
are  eafily  digefted  by  faith.  If  wee  be  crofTed  in  the  cood 
things  wc  goc  about,  faith  confidereth,that  this  commcth 
to  pafle  by  the  good  providence  of  God,  who  fometimeg 
- crofTeth 


duties  of  our  vocation. 


5*^5 


croffeth  our  good  and  lawful!  attempts,  Icaft  wee  Oioiild 
triift  in  our  fclves,  defpife  the  poore  and  afflided,  and  be 
glued  faft  to  thcfe  earthly  things.  Alfo  it  remembers  us 
of  Gods  deare  and  tender  love,  who  of  meere  favour  doth 
chaftife,  and  will  fo  order,  that  all  miferies /hall  in  the 
end  turne  to  our  good.  And  by  (iich  like  meditations  it 
workcth  the  foule  to  contentation  in  every  cflate.  I  have 
learned  in  whatffevcr  (iate  I  am,  therewith  to  be  C0>nent,  I 
knove  both  how  to  be  abafed,  And  I k^ovn  hotv  to  abonnd-.every 
tvhere,  in  all  thingt  I  am  infiru5}ed)  both  to  be  fu//,  and  to 
behftngrie,  both  toaboundj  andtofujfer  need.  Moreover, 
faith  turncth  crofles  into  advantage,  as  it  calleth  the  affli- 
^cd  unto  the  examination  of  his  wayes,  and  reformation 
of  what  is  amiflc,workcth  felfc-denialljemptieth  the  he  ^rt 
of  the  love  of  bafe  and  tranfitory  things,  quickeneth  un- 
to prayer, caufcth  torclUrh  mercy  with  more  fweetnefle, 
and  covet  fpirituall  things  more  earneftly,  reviveth  hope, 
and  gaineth  experience  of  Gods  favour  and  tender  com- 
paflion. 

Tenthly,  Faith  reftraineth  diftraftful!  care  concerning 
thefuccefl'e  of  our  labours,  but  is  not  flackc  to  crave  Gods 
blcdlng  upon  our  labours.lt  wrappeth  all  gricfes,vcxati- 
ons  and  cares  togcther,and  powreth  them  forth  b.  fore  the 
Lord  in  prayer.  Be  careful]  for  nothing,  bnt  in  every  thin^ 
h  f^^y^^  and fuf plication  with  thanklgivingjet  your  requeft 
he  m*de  kf?owne  unto  God,  In  the  midft  of  forrowes  faith 
is  filent  from  murmuring  and  impatience  ;  but  it  is  never 
filcnt  in  prayer  :ic  doth  continually  cry  unto  the  Lord  for 
fiiccour. 

Eleventhly.  If  wc  finde  wifhed  fucceffe,  it  makes  vi- 
gilant, frugal,  humble,  merciful!,  and  thankefull :  for  it 
receiveth  all  bleJ[Ting8,as  gifts  of  grace,to  be  imployed  ac- 
cording to  Gods  will  and  appointment ,j:o  the  glory  of  his 
Name,  and  comfort  of  his  people  :  andteachethfotoufe 
the  world,  as  willingly  to  renounce  all  intcreft  in  the 
world,  for  thcfafhion  thereof  pafl'cth  away.  And  with 
what  confcicncc  towards  God  wc  arc  inclined  to  labour, 

with 


Phil. 


4  11,11- 


10- 


Ph.1.4.-5. 


Pfal.6i.i. 


II. 


I  Cor.7.ji. 


^'Z^- 


396 


pro. II  ifji^.j 
PUl.iii.*. 


I£. 


W^Z-rf/  ^f  /if « live  b^  Faith  in  the 


H&ve'te^  may 
live  by  faith 
touching  the 
fuccejfe  o[Q»r 
labours. 
I. 

•Pro. 3.5. 
Jer.io.ij. 

:  zi.S. 
I 


Lam.3.37. 


with  the  fame  wc  arc  ftirrcd  up  to  give  to  others,  as  need 
rcquircth.  The  defire  ofthfflothfHll  kjtteth  him: for  his  hands 
refttfe  to  labour .  He  cov^teth greedily  uU  the  day  Ung :  Bnt 
the  righteous  giveth  an'fpareth  not, 

Twelfthly,  feith  ccuplcth  the  labours  oF  our  calling 
with  the  pradice  ofChriftianity  :  for  God  hath  laidhig 
Commandement  upon  us,  both  to  feeke  his  Kingdome, 
worke  out  ourfalvarion^  make  our  cledlion  lure,  exercife 
our  felves  in  all  good  workes,walke  in  love  and  labour  ho- 
ncftly  in  our  particular  vocation  :  and  faith  carnot  fc- 
paratc  what  God  hath  /oyned.  H  e  that  laboareth  in  faith 
lookcth  not  onely  what  he  doth,  but  why  he  doth  it ;  and 
hathrefpcdl  to  one  duty  commanded  as  well  as  another, 
the  reafon  of  his  obedience  being  one  and  the  fame/riame- 
ly,  the  will  and  commandement  of  the  Lord.  If  a  man 
labour  in  faith ;  the  better  he  laboureth,  the  more  diligent 
he  is  in  the  fcrvice  of  God,  and  workes  of  mercy ;  and  the 
more  diligent  he  is  in  the  duties  of  piety,the  more  faithf  ull 
,  in  his  honeft  labour. 

But  how  fliould  a  Chriftian  live  by  fakh  touching  the 
good  fucceflc,  and  direflion  of  that  worke  or  budnefle, 
whereunto  he  is  called,which  he  findcs  to  be  much  above 
his  ftrength  or  meanes, 

Firft,  Faith  caufeth  fe  Ife-deniall  in  refpe<5l  *  of  judgc- 
mentiwifedome^and  power  :for  wc  arc  blinde  in  chufini^, 
foolilk  in  refolving  what  is  to  be  done ;  *  what  is  riaht  in 
our  eyes  is  abomination  before  God.  Nor  is  our  wifdome 
todifpofe  andmannage  matters  refolved  on,  of  greater 
ripeneffe  and  perfe<5lion.Our  owne  counfcU  oft  leads  us  a^ 
wry  in  thingicorporalljcithcr  we  mifle  of  the  right  man- 
ner, or  ufe  right  meanes  amiffe,  cither  we  leane  upon  de- 
ceitful! props,  or  take  a  good  ftaffc  by  the  wrong  end. 
And  if  wc  be  brought  into  diftrefle,  then  how  are  wee 
plunged  in  our  confultations,  not  knowing  which  v^ay 
to  turnc  our  felvcs.  As  for  power  to  accomplifli  any  good 
worke,  though  never  fo  well  conceived,  though  meanes 
never  fo  potent,fo  ready  at  hand,  £0  well  ordered  ;though 

the 


duties  ef&ur  v&cat'on. 


the  bufineflc  h^in  never  fo  good  forwardneflciwe  have  it 
not.  Alasjpoore  impotent  creatures,  what  cafi  we  doc  of 
our  fclvcs,wbo  cannot  kecpe  our  breath  for  one  momett? 
In  Goi  wee  live,  and  move, and  have  our  being  :  and  bee 
that  maintaincs  life  muft  pcrfed  all  our  workcs  t.  r  us.  In 
matter  of  profit  no  mancaniay,  my  power,  my  labour, 
the  might  of  my  hand  hatbgotten  me  this  wealth*  Nor 
in  point  of  honour,  3y  nny  politic  I  have  budded  my  ncit 
on  highjby  the  Hrength  of  my  grmc  I  nave  gotten  me  the 
VKflorie,  This  weakncfle  i'  difeovercd  by  faith,  which  in 
every  buiinetVe  vvoi  kcth  ieire-denialljUnowing  the  begin- 
ning, diredion,  aiid  iucccfle  of  all  hjncft  iabctirs  to  be  of 
I  grace.  ....••■       / 

Secondly,  It  teachcth  fubmi(Tion  to  Gods  dirc(!^ii>n, 
and  depcndance  upon  his  helpc  andafiiftance.  Jt  a^keth 
counfell  at  the  word,  and  followeth  tlic  determination  of 
it.  It  cbufetb  what  God  apprpveth,  though  to  bnnianc 
wifdome  it  fecme  bootleflc.ai  d  improbable  :  it  rejcdi:  th 
what  God  condemncth,  rh juph  to  corrupt  rcafon  it  pfO- 
mife  profit  and  contentment.  For  tmccontid  r.ceisobc- 
dientiall,  lub;L*(!l:ing  it  felfe  to  r  c  will  of  God  as  the  rule 
of holincflc,acknowledging  his  fovcra'^ntie,  fubkribing 
to  his  wifdome  as  moft  abfolute,  and  to  his  wayes  a  moft 
true,  juO,  and  mercifull.  ..  ^ 

And  as  it  confulteth  withGod^  fo  itputtcthoversH 
bufinefff  into  his  hands,  and  in  a  manner  out  ok  our  owne. 
For  it  truftcth  to  him  for  abilit"  to  the  workc,  pruvifion 
of  the  fTieanes,  thedifpofitionofthcm,  andigoodfucccffe 
to  come  by  them.  Yea,  though  all  mcancs  failc,  and  all 
things  feemc  to  make  againft  the  procecdinas, faith  relieth 
upon  God,  who  is  cverlafting,  unchangeable,  the  fame 
for  ever-Theeyc  of  faith  is  ever  towards  the  Lore*,*  tl  at 
he  may  inftrufl  ard  guide  in  the  way  ;  that  he  would  be 
with  us  to  enable  in  cIk  worke  we.take  in  hand.  x\nd  for 
the  meaijcs,  it  laoketh  to  have  (uch  minilir.d  which  may 
!  advance  our  juU  dci]gnes,and  dftccmcth  them  moft  preci- 
ous, which  bee  (hall  put  into  our  hands.    To  provide 

meanes 


^9l 


Dent.S. 17,18 


PCiI. 


44? 


2. 
Ju  'gcs.i.i.&, 

Zc  18.15.2?, 

bfay.8.20. 


Mntth.5.j  J, 
&  lo.  J9. 


Elrn.5.5 

luiigcs. 
£xcjd,4 


6.16 
1 1. 


,■ /<?: 


S9^ 


what  it  is  tt  live  by  Faith  in  the 


The  props  of 
tbitfaitb. 


I. 


2. 

Matth.io.»9. 

Pro.10.14. 

prai.37.z5. 

Prov.i^-?. 

Pfal.57-f- 
Aftf.x4.z3. 

1  Sam.io.ii' 


mcanes  is  the  workc  of  God  :  it  onely  belongs  to  us,  to 
ufc  them  which  he  (hall  grant  in  mercy .    And  feeing  wc 
have  not  this  wifcdome  and  ability  of  our  fclvcs,  faith  cx- 
pcdcth  both  from  the  hand  of  God,  fci/,  to  prepare 
mcanes,  and  make  us  wife  to  take  the  opportunitic. 
The  props  of  this  faith  are  thefe  two. 
Firft,  The  cxaft  infinite  wifdomc  of  God,  who  know- 
€th  what  meanes  will  be  fie  to  bee  ufcd  now,  and  what 
not,  both  for  his  glory,  and  the  cftablifliing  of  the  thing 
in  hand ;  who  knoweth  what  may  hinder,  and  can  cither 
prevent  or  fruftratc  it :  and  who  can  knit  fecondarie  caii- 
Ics  one  into  another,  and  make  them  confpirc  together 
in  an  admirable  harmonic,  which  wee  our  felvcs  cannot 
doc. 

Secondly jGods  providence, which  rules  in  every  thing 
which  falls  out,  even  the  Icaft  matters.    Not  a  Sparrow 
falls  to  the  ground  but  by  his  will.    UKans goings  are  of 
the  Lord,  Hce  difpofcth  of  every  thing  that  concernes  us 
and  our.  affaires.    The  worke  that  wc  take  in  hand  is  not 
our  owne,  but  the  Lords  :   and  the  fucccflc  of  the  bufi- 
nefife  doth  depend  upon  his  pUafiirc,  to  whom  it  muft  be 
committed.  Let  the  Lord  doe  what  fecmcth  him  good. 
Andhe  givesiffuc,  not  according  to  the  fceming  abilities 
of  the  perfons,  or  likelihood  of  the  meanes  ufcd,  but  ac- 
cording to  the  good  pleafure  of  his  owne  will. 

Thirdly,  Faith  thus  underpropped  bringeth  forth  in- 
duftrie,  and  indeavour  to  obicrve  God  in  his  providence. 
Hce  that  is  moft  confident  to  f peed,  is  moft  vigilant  to 
take  all  opportunities,  moft  diligent  to  labour  iri  the  ufe  of 
all  lawfull  meanes.  'For  God,  who  workcth  for  us,  will 
have  us  worke  with  him.  Faith  layethhold  upon  the  pro- 
mifes  of  aide  and  provifion  with  one  hand,  worketh  with 
the  other.  Nothing  can  fo  much  encourage,  quicken,con- 
firme  in  paines-taking,  as  faith.  The  pcrfwafions  of  faith 
are  moft  powerfull,  the  motives  ftrong,  the  incouragc- 
mcnts  eflfedaall  to  put  life  and  vigour  into  the  dull  and 
fluggifh.   Hce  that  beliereth  will  labour,  and  not  make  j 
hafte.t 


duties  of  our  vocation. 


\      399 


haftc.  Hcc  that  diflraftcth  not  his  pay-maftcr  is  not  ha- 
ftic  to  get  the  pay  into  his  own  hand  :  bccaufe  he  knowcs 
whom  he  hath  trufted. 

Fourthly,  Faith  cannot  be  filent,  as  hath  bccnc  former-  4. 

ly  obferved.  Hcc  that  bclicveth  will  pray.  The  weaker 
he  h  in  himfelFc,  the  more  difficult  his  taske.thc  more  fer- 
vent his  fupplications.  O  Ltrdy  there  is  no  firen^th  in  iChro.io,iz^ 
M,  to  fiAndAgainft  this  great  fe op le,  that  cemmethagMinfl 
tt4,  neither  dee  rvee  k»ow  vrhat  to  doe  :  but  our  eyes  are  to- 
ward/  thee.  And  ifthe  worke  fticke  faO,  and  ftirre  not  at 
the  firftjit  pulleth  the  harder  :  difficulties  incite  to  earned 
prayer.  In  the  morning  wiflldirefl  me  unto  thee,  and  wiS  I  Pfal.  j  j,j, 
/ookeout, 

Fiftly,  It  pntteth  life  and  hardineflc  into  u?.  Ik  the 
worke  be  great,  and  our  ftrength  fmall,  faith  biddcth  us 
bee  ftrong  and  play  the  men: for  God  will  be  with  us  for 
our  fupport.    ZdnUn  and  T^phtaU  v>  crc  a  people  th4t  |  lu^lges.f  i3, 
jeoparded  their  lives  unto  the  death,   in  the  high  places  of 
the  field.    In  the  moft  eafie  worke  faith  will  not  fuffer  to 
leane  upon  our  owneftrength  :  in  greateft  difficulties  it 
wil  not  defpairc  of  the  Lords  aide.  This  is  the  (lay  of  faith; '  lofiiua.  i.  f  ,p 
He  will  not  leave  theejior  forfake  thee.E very  thing  is  too 
hard  for  us,  if  we  relic  upon  our  fclves :  nothing  too  hard 
if  we  rruft  in  the  Lord,  and  goe  forth  in  the  power  of 
his  might. 

Sixdy,  It  waiteth  upon  God  for  good  fuccefle,  and 
triumphcth  before  the  vi(5lory.  Commit  thy  wayes  unto 
the  Lord,  and  :hj  thoughts  /hall  bee  direEled.  Faith  loo- 
kcth  to  the  promife,  and  concludcth  aflurcdly.  The  word 
of  the  Lof  d  fhall  never  faile  :  The  icale  of  the  Lord  of 
hofts  will  bring  it  to  pafTe. 

Seventhly, Faith  h  ready  and  forward  to  praile  God  for  7. 

good  fuccefle,  as  it  is  willing  and  defirous  to  obey.  For  ic 

i  abafeth  it  (cW:^^,  looketh  more  and  more  into  Gods  admi- 

I  rablekindneffcjand  is  alliamed  of  unthankfiilnefTe.  David 

promifcth  to  praife  God  three  times,  nay,feven  times  in  a 

'  day  :  that  he  would  doc  it  openly  in  the  Congregation, 

and 


6, 


^.o< 


Hoiv  t0  live  hj  Faith  in  the  ufe  of 


Ffal.i«5«t3i« 


Jud.f.9,10,11 


and  privately  by  himfclfe  :  and  vet,  as  though  he  had  for- 
got himlelt'cand  beenc  much  behind  others  in  this  duty,he 
quickeneth  up  himfeU'e  untJ  it :  8/ep  tfj^  L'*rd^  O  mj 


qui.._ -^  ,  .        ^ 

/o»/<",  dn  iaH  that  is  wpthinrnte.  Blejfe  ku  h«ly  US(jnhe.  The 
mcdieation  otGods  natrie  is  fwcctj  the  remembrance  6f  j 
his  kindnciTc  is  pleafant:  ihc  faithful!  ca  not  fatisfie  them- 
felvcs  in  Tinging  his  praylcs.  Hence  it  is  that  tky  ftirrc  up 
themfelvcsand  provoke  others  to  magnifie  the  Lord.  Afy 
heart  is  towards  ths  Governoftrs  sflfraely  that  offered  them' 
felvei  veilllngly  amsng  the  people^ lefeyee  the  Lord,  Speaks 
yee  that  ride  9n  white  e^jft'/,  yee  that  Jit  in  Iftdgement,  and 
walks  hy  the  way.  They  that  are  dehvered,  from  the  noyfe  of 
the  ^Archen  in  the  places  of  drawing  water ;  there  Jhall  they 
rehear fe  the  righteom  ad:s  oftheLord,cv^n  the  ri^hteetu  afls 
towards  the  inhabitants,  of  his  villages  in  Ifrael, 

CHAP.  XI. 

Horv  t$  live  hy  Faith  in  the  ufe  of  Gods  Ordi- 
nances j  the  Word  and  Sacra- 
ments, 


There  be  many 
promife^  of 
GQds  blefing 
bii  ordinances 
to  his  peoples 
good. 
Efay  5J.i,ij3 


H'h  vford' 


IN  Scripture  we  readc  many  promifes  made  to  fach  as 
fhall  conicionaWy  hearken irnto  the  Word,  and  receive 
the  holy  Sacraments,  the  fcales  of  the  covenant  ofgrace ; 
that  God  will  bleffe  his  owne  Ordinances  to  their  edifica- 
tion jComfort,ftrengthening  in  grace,and  cverlafting  falva* 
tion.  Ho,every  one  that  thtrfieth,come  yee  to  the  waters ^and 
he  that  hath  no  money :  Qome  yeejjuy  ande^te^yea  amejbny 
wine  an  imilke  without  money  ^and  without  price  :  Wherefore 
do  yee  fpend  money  for  that  which  is  not  bread  ?  andyonr  la- 
bour for  that  which  fatisfieth  mt  ?  Hearken  dtligently  ttnto 
me^and  eateyee  that  which  is  gOi)\  an  J  letyonrfonle  delight 
'  itfelfe  infatnejje,    Encline  jour  e are,  and  come  ttnto  mee  ; 
Pfal.19,7.8.    I  heare^andyoHrfoulePjaUlivt.ThelaivoftheLvrdisperfeiiy 


con- 


Gods  Ordinances,  theWordandSacrdmems. 


.'^  -- 


converting  the  foule :  thf  teflimtny  of  the  Lord  is  fwre^  ma- 
king reije  the  fimple.The  ftMtHtes  of  the  Lord  are  right  rejoj- 
ciftg  the  heart:  the  Commansiemcnts  of  the  Lord  are  pure  yin" 
lightning  the  eyes.  Awife  man  wiSheare  drrvillincreafe  lear- 
ning'.c^  a  man  of  under fi-andingfljall  attaine  unto  wife  ccun- 
fels.  Takefafl  hoidofinflruUiony  let  her  not  gee  ;  keepe  her, 
for  Jhe  ii  thy  life.  ^^Myfonne^  heare  thy  fathers  commandc" 
menty  andfor/akf  not  the  law  of  thy  Mother  i  Bindethem  con- 
tinually upon  thy  heart,  andtye  them  about  thy  neck^e.  fVhen 
thoHgoeflj  it  fhaK leade  thee  ;  vchen  thouflteptfl^  it  fl>all  keepe 
thee,  and  when  thou  wakeji  itjhall  talke  vrith  thee.  For  the 
Cotnmandement  is  a  lampe,  and  theLitvris  light :  andre- 
proefesofinf^ruSlionare  the  way  of  life,  SanEl:fie  them 
through  thy  truth :  thy  wordis  truth,  'Doe  not  my  words  doe 
good  to  him  that  walketh  uprightly  ?  As  new  i)orne  habes 
dejirethe  fincere  milke  of  the  JVord ,  that  yee  may  grow 
thereby.  This  is  confirmed*  by  the  comparifons ,  which 
are  ufcd  to  fet  forth  the  ufc  and  proFt  of  the  word ;  as  it 
is  refembled  to  the  lighr^  raine,  dew,  living  water,  wine 
and  milke :  ■  By  the  titles  which  are  given  unto  it ;  as 
it  \s  called  the  word  of  this  life ,  the  word  of  this  falvati- 
on :  and  by  the  paflagcs  of  Scripture,  which  tcftiffc,  that 
the  word  is  able  to  favc  our  foules.  And  now  brethren,  I 
commendyoH  to  God^andtothe  wordof  his  grace  yWhich  it  able 
to  buildjou  up^audto  give  you  an  inheritance  among  all  them 
which  are  fanBifitd.  For  after  that  in  the  wifaome  of  God, 
the  world  by  wifdome  knew  not  ^od,  it  pleafed  ^o^  by  the 
fooli/hnejfe  of  preaching  to  fave  them  that  believe.  Take 
heed  unto  thy  fe If e  I  and  unto  the  doBrine  :  continue  in 
them  :  for  in  doing  this  thou  /halt  both  fave  thy  felfe, 
and  them  that  heare  thee,  fy  here  fore  lay  apart  all  fit  hi- 
nejfe,  and  fuperflnity  of  naught inejfe ,  and  receive  with 
meekenefe  the  ingrafted  wordy  which  is  able  to  fave  your 
foules. 

This  alfo  is  manifcft  of  the  Sacraments,  which  be  truly 
called  a  vifible  word,  becaufe  that  which  is  fpoken  in  the 
word  to  the  care,is  in  vifible  fignes  reprefented  to  our  eyes 
1  D  d  and 


401 


Proi.f, 


Pro.<5io_,ii, 


John  17.17 

Mich.  a.  7. 
I  i'ft.  :.». 
*  Efay  9.  8. 
Matth.4. 1  J. 
Dent  j».  2. 
2'acli.i4.8. 
Erek.47.5, 
Cant.  ».j. 

a  Acts  5.20. 
Ads  ii.z6. 

Ads  20.  J  t. 

I  Cor. 1, 21, 

I  Titn.4.16, 


James  i.'n. 


AniSaert- 
mcnti. 


llh 


402 


Rom.4. 1 1. 


Pro.8.j4,3^. 


How  t$  live  hy  Faith  in  the  ufe  @f 


I  Pct.3.11. 

"Col.a.ix. 
Rom. 6. 3. 


andfealcdtoour  hearts,  that  wc  may  be  the  more 
afluredofthcmtobcours ;  And  were  purpofcly  ordai- 
ned at  God  to  hclpe  onr  weakc  faith,  that  having  his 
word  and  feale,  wc  might  be  put  out  of  doubt,  that  wc 
inall  as  certainely  be  made  partakers  of  Chrift  himfelfe, 
and  all  his  benefits ,  as  wc  are  of  the  outward  fi^nes  of 
his  covenant.  What  the  Apoftlc  faith  of  Circumcifion 
that  IS  true  of  Sacraments  in  gcnerall,  They  are  feahs  of 
^^^righteoufKeffe  of  faith,  or  of  the  covenant  of  crace 
And  for  the  better  aflurance  of  the  believer,  that  recei- 
ving the  outward  fignc  as  he  ought ,  hee  ftiali  be  partaker 
of  the  thing  figmfied,  very  oft  that  which  properly  be- 
longs to  the  thing  fealed,  is  given  to  the  outward  iignc- 
as  fhat'Bapufmefaveth  ;  that  onrfinnes  are  wajhedawayin 
Baptifme  j  an^that  we  4re  huriedmth  Chrifi  by  Baptifme  • 
And  the  like  of  the  Lords  Supper ,  when  our^Lord  Jcfus 
did  ordaine  it ,  he  fpeaking  of  the  Bread  faid ,  Thks  u  my 
Body  ,  and  of  the  Wine  ,  r/:;^  i^  my  B  hud  of  the  71  ,i 
Tefiament,  ^ 

Thefe  promifes  are  firmc  grounds,whereupon  the  faith- 
tnllloule  may  build  this  affiance,  that  by  the  fincere  and 
confcionable  ufe  of  Gods  holy  Ordinances,  the  Word  and 
Sacraments,  he  ftiall  be  made  wile  unto  falvation  confir 
medm  faith,  ftrengthened  in  grace ,  rcfrcflicd  with  jov 
and  comfort,andperfcaed  unto  cverlading  happinc^  And 
the  fcrious  meditation,  and  remembrance  of  thefe  things 
isexcccdingprofitableto  quicken  and  cncouraijc  unto 
cbearefull  and  conftant  attendance  upon  God  in  his  ordi 
nances  that  fo  wc  may  in  due  leafon  reape  the  fweet  fruit 
thereof.  Sleff^ed  is  the  mm  that  heareth  me :  watching  d^ih 
4/  my  gates,  waiting  daily  at  the  po(is  of  my  doores.  For  -who 
fofindeth  me.fnieth  Ife-^andMll  obtaine  favour  of  the  Lord 
Did  Chriftians  oft  and  earneftly  breath  themfelves  in  me* 
Qitation  on  thofe  great  things,  that  God  offcreth  m  the 
Gofpell;  and  his  truth  and  faithfulncffc  to  make  coed 
whatfoeverhehathfpoken  :  Did  tl  cy  fet  before  them 
I  boththe  mercy  ofGod  m  ordaining  the  Sacraments  for  the 
ftrcngthc- 


Geds  Ordinances,  the  Word  and Sacrdrnems 


flrengtbeningof  their  faitb,and  his  grace  and  faithftilncflc 
in  bcftowing  upon  them  frccly,that  which  he  offcreth  and 
fcalcth  unto  them  in  thefe  outward  fcales  :  Did  they  con- 
fidcr  what  he  gratioufly  promifeth  in  both,  and  expc(5t  to 
be  made  partakers  of  tbem  in  the  ufc  of  tho(e  ordinances; 
it  would  marvcloufly  comfort ,  and  quicken  to  the  dili- 
gent ufe  of  all  holy  meancs  ordained  of  God  for  our  pre- 
lent  comfort,  quickening ,  and  fl:r€ngthening,and  forour 
ever  I  ailing  falvarion. 

This  faith  is  r  cceflary  j  for  it  availeth  not  to  live  under 
the  Gofpell,  and  to  be  prelcnt  at  the  adminiftration  of  the 
Sacraments,  if  they  be  not  ufed  in  faith.  The  word  profi- 
teth  not,  unleffe  it  he  ntingltdwithfuitb  in  them  that  heare 
it.  And  the  fame  may  be  faid  ofreceiving  the  Sacram.ents. 
Faith  is  the  eye,tbc  hand,  the  mouth,  the  ftomacke  of  tlie 
fou'e  :  by  it  wc  f::e,  receive, feed  upon  Chrift.  Looke  as  at 
a  feaftjthough  the  Table  be  never  fo  richly  furniflied,yct  if 
a  man  have  neither  hand,  mouth,  nor  ftomacke,  he  is  not 
fed  thereby  ••  fo  \%  h  here. 

Nor  is  it  fufficient  to  have  faith,but  it  mull  be  cxercifed 
to  receive  that  grace  which  the  Word  of  God  doth  reach 
uswiththcfcale.  It  is  not  the  having  but  the  new  exer- 
cife  of  faith,  which  maketh  us  profitable  hearers  of  the 
wordjWorthy  receivers  of  the  Sacrament. Looke  as  a  man 
may  have  a  hand,  and  yet,  if  when  a  thing  is  reached  forth 
to  him,  he  doe  not  put  it  out ,  nothing  is  received  :  fo  wc 
may  have  the  grace  of  faith,and  yet,if  when  God  reacheth 
us  the  body  and  bloud  ofbis  Chrift,  we  doe  not  then  awa- 
ken iti  to  lay  hold  on  the  grace  God  offeretb,  we  fhall  go 
avVay  without  receiving  it.  Or  looke  as  at  a  feaft,  though 
wc  have  a  mouth,  and  there  be  plentifuU  provifion,  if  we 
will  not  open  it,and  take  downe  the  fuftenancc  before  us, 
wcfliall  rife  empty  ;  fo  though  we  have  the  mouth  of 
faiih.yet  if  wc  do  hot  open  it  to  God  now  offering  to  feed 
us,  we  (hall  not  get  a  crumme  of  grace. 
The  A6ls  of  faith  be  thefe  or  the  like. 
Firft,  It  teachcth  to  worfliip  the  true  God  phrcly :  to  \ 
D  d  2  cfteeme  I 


405 


Iti  nccejfa-i-yto 
lively  J  at!  h  in 
the  u'e  of  Gods 
Ordinanczi, 


The  A£ts  of 
faith  in  the 
ufe  ofGffds 
Ordinancei, 
I. 


2.'/; 


Efay  29.  13, 
Matth.if.9. 
Jer.7  31. 


2. 

Pfal,iof.4. 
1  C-hio.i6.ii, 
Pral.27.8. 
Pfal,4i.a. 
Pfal.$g.i,t. 


Pral.84.1,2. 
Vcrfcj. 


Rev,  4, 6. 
iCor.j.  18. 


How  to  live  hy  Faith  m  the  ufe  of 


Pro.8.j4, 


cftccmc,appravc,and  exercife  that  worfl^ip,  &  that  alon. 

will  of  God,  as  the  rule  ofalUcceptalplc  fcr  vice    and  1 
the  pro„,ifes,as  the  grounds  of ^^^^^ 
cefle.  It  tenders  unto  God,  what  he  requireth  fand  loo 
keth  unto  God  to  receive  what  he  is  plcafcd,  &  ha  h  nrn" 

wh'lh  ri'  ^"^  ^^^  ^^^^  not  Lcpt  that  worr; 
which  he  hath  not  appointed,  nor  worke  effeauanlT; 
the  devices  of  men.  No  piety,  comfort,  or  true  devotfon 
IS,  or  can  be  ftirred  up  by  humane  tradition  for  JS 
aredeftitutc  of  commandemcnt  for  their  rule  fo  are  h  ^ 
of  promife,  that  God  will  kindle  or  quicken  bv  them  ..7 

fparkleofknowledge,faitb,invoca?ion,tl^nk& 
other  faving  motions  ot  heart.  «"*^™ineiie,or 

Secondly,  It  delighteth  greatly  to  behold  the  face  of 
Godinhis  fanauary.  When  thou  faideft,  Sechj?,^: 

Whenjha/llcofne  and  appt^re  iifore  God    O  Gad    lu 
r^here  no  y,ater  u :  To/ec  thy  por.,r  and  glory,  Co  J  I TZ 

jortm  courts  of  the  Lord:  my  heart,  and  mj  ielh  cryeth 
'«tfor,h^  IMngGoi.  Bleff/d  .re  tLy  tiJateuTJ't 
houfo.  Thelevmcall  worftiip  was  4  a  glaffe  more 
dm,me,in  which  they  beheld  the  ftceof  the  if  rd  obS 
ly: the  Wordand  Sacrament,  areto  Chriftia^s Ifa  c  ^ 
glafle.m  which  as  wth  open  face  we  behnM  .J  i 
of  God  in  Chrift.  Chrift  is  prefent  with  us  1 1^^°"^ 

weholdbis publike worjp:  heisT„„d'whe„wlrc' 
covers  having  beene  loft.  Thendo.h  the  face  of  the 
tord  ft„e  upon  us.when  he  offers  hi.nfelfe  unw  his  peo- 
ple to  be  feenem  his  publike  worliip  :  thepureand  u^ 
defied  exercresofpiety.  And  from  hence  fKh  the" 
wil^mgnes  of  the  Samts.to  waite  continually  at  the  poftes 
of  wifdomcs  gates,  to  heare  her  wordsithcir  earneft  co„! 

tention 


J 


G^ds  Ordinances  J  the  Word  and  Sacramems. 


tcntion  and  ftudy  to  prefcrvc,  maintain,  uphold,  &  fct  for- 
ward the  pure  worfliip  of  God,  &:  to  (ave  or  free  it  from 
the  droflc  of  fuperflitions  vanities ,  which  oblcure  the 
clcare  light  of  tbc  Lords  countenance,  and  to  rcftorc  it  ac- 
cording to  the  pattcrne,  ifonce  it  fall ;  and  their  diligent 
cnquirie  after  Chrift,  if  his  face  be  hidden  from  them,  or 
hi5  worship  be  polluted  with  Idolatry,  Tell  v%t  (O  than 
whom  myfoule  loveth)  where  thoufeedefi ,  rvhere  thou  mtt- 
kefl  thy  flocks  to  refl  at  noont :  for  i»hy  (htuli  I  bee  eu  «Me 
that  u  vailcclyamofiafl  the  flockcs  ofthj  companion f  ?  Why 
fiiould  I  be  as  a  woman  wafting  her  felfc  with  forrow 
&  grief c",whiles  I  fecke  thy  prefencc  in  thine  ordinances. 
Thirdly,  It  tccketh  acquaintance  with  God ,  and  the 
knowledge  of  his  will  in  Chrift  Jefus.  Without  fjme 
kn0vvIedgeofGc5d  in  Chrid,  and  of  his  word  going  be- 
fore, there  can  be  no  feith  :  but  faith  endcavoureth  the  eri- 
crcafe  of  knowledge  :  It  cryeth  after  knowledge,  and 
lifteth  up  the  voire  for  undcrftanding  :  It  fecketh  hcf  as 
filver,  and/earcheth  for  her  as/tf^'  hid  trcafurcs,  cJ7.^ 
foftle  breal^ethfor  the  longing  that  it  hath  ft-^to  thf  judge- 
ments ,  at  aH  times.  C^ake  mee  to  under fimd  the  WdJ  of 
thf  frecepts  ,  fo  fhall  I  meditate  or  talke  of  thy  icvondroui 
workfs,  *  This  is  implied  in  the  phrafe  of  feeking  God, 
which  fignifieth  to  bend  all  their  ftrcngth  and  power  to 
know  ,  acknowledge  and  worfliip  God  aright.  Know- 
ledge is  picafanr  to  the  belieting  fbulc  ,  aiid  Wi^^domc 
delighteth  the  heart.  Childten  corct  fwecrc.mesttfs,  be- 
caufc  they  plcafe  the  taftej  and  the  believer  defires  the 
k  iowlcdgeof  God  a-^d  his  word,  becaule  it  is  fvyeete 
and  deare  unto  him.  God  in  Chtift  is  the  objcS:  of  faith; 
the  matter,  whatfoever  is  rcx^ealtd  of  Gad  to  be  received 
or  believed ;  and  faith  it  fclfc  is  Wore  ftrongVai'id  the  opc- 
. rations  of  faith  mere  lively  and  comfortable,  as  thefe  are 
better  knowne.  And  from  thisdcfire  it  commeth,that  the 
believer  doll)  apply  himfclfe  to  attend  onto  the  word  of 
tmtli,  ponder  it  ferioudy,  andtrcafurcit  up  fafe,  that  it,  J^u^^ 
might  not  ovcrflip  hiflk  •.      -'■ "  -  ''   •"'  "^    "  "    ' "  "  \ 

D  d  5  Fourthly,\ 


405 


Cant.1,7. 


3. 

Horn.  10.14, 


Pfal.iip.io, 

Verfe  17. 
*  Pial.9.10. 
&  40. i<, 
PiiI.ioY.4. 
Efay  58.1. 


A(fl$i<.  14. 
Luke  i.ji, 

1  I,S. 


40^ 


aPfaI.6j  8. 

DeiiMo.io. 

6t  1J.4. 
«»pfal.6j.y. 

«  Pfal.119.3  I. 


Jcr.ijii. 


Gcn.4.4. 

Heb.ii.4, 

Pfal.41.4, 


/i^tftv  t0  live  kj  Fmh  in  the  u[e  of 

Fourthly, It glacth the  heart  clofc  to  the  word,  rcT 
ccivcth  and  poflcdcth  the  good  things  promifed,  and 
cnangcththcdifpofition  ofloule  into  the  nature  of  the 
word.Faith  -  folio weth  hard  after  the  word  till  it  be  made 
our  owne,3nd  its  lively  Charaftcr  ftamped  upon  rhc  foulc: 
It  feedcth  upon  every  part  of  the  word,  gctteth  intcrcft 
in  every  promife,and  (ucketh  vigour  and  /uyce  out  of  it. 
By  faith  we  cftickeclofe  unto  the  word,  and  <i  the  word 
doth  ftickc,  or  IS  ingrafted  into  us. 

rnrn".1i^°'^^/u'^  we  might  pofTeflc  the  pearle  of  the 
Gofpell  and  be  feafoned  with  the  doArinc  or  grace 
throughhr    faith  renounceth  all  intereft  in  the  lufts  Ifthc 

r^hf^rr^'^'^'^'i'^''  ^'^''  ^'  "'•"^^'y  pondereth  and 
med  tateth  upon  the  great  things  of  the  la  w,to  worke  the 
hcartto  an  holy  cftceme  of  the  excellent  and  heavenly 
things  contained  in  it,  and  to  a  gratious  afFeAation  of  eve- 
ry duty  therein  required.  And  it  importuneth  the  Lord  bv 
S^^^''■'u  1!^°"^'  Ijypocriticall  halting  or  Qarting  afide, 
that  he  would  be  plcafed  to  write  his  law  in  our  heart! 
frn^w^f  "'  ftcdfaft  unto  him,  that  we  may  never  depart 

itisGodthat  knitteth  us  unto  himfelfe:  ^s  th.  Mlc 
th^^^  Me  houfe  ./IfraeU,  thj  thej  might  bee  r»y  Jcf, 
^Ji^^^'^^^'}^?^J}''^^^o{zTVQGo^m  the  ufe  of  all  his 

flockc    andof  the  fat  thereof  an  oftcring  to  the  Lord 

o/^Go?wrhlr^-^^'^^'^  "^"^"^"^^  -^'  ^^  ^-^^ 

bedov;dw?rfr^^^ 

^^ni/i^f    u-     °^'  prcfcnce,  nor  account  any  fcrvicc 

TraifSthe  h -I'^  ^T  'l'^'"'  ''>'  wiUfing'and  g^e 
beSent  in  rh'^  Tf^'  '^^'J  '^^"^-  ««^^ould  he 
hfs  wS  f.  ^  .^  "^^  ""^""y  "rdinancc,who  fccch  God  in 
his  Whole  wor/hip,  and  findeth  comfort,  tafteth  fweet- 
nelTemcverypart.  Weefee  by  experience,  [he  defirc 
— - -    .    -  of 


G0ds  Ordman^esy  theWerdandSdcraments. 


407 


of  gainc  dravvcs  men  to  rife  early,  reft  lace,  toylc 
hard  in  any  bufinefTc  that  may  bring  in  commodity  :  but 
faith  begettctb  an  ur.fatiablc  operative  conOant  thirftand 
( efireof  Ipiriruall  things  which  makes  the  believer  in- 
duUriousintheu'cofali  mcancs ,  whereby  his  trcafure 
may  be  cncrcafed.  Looke  as  the  Merchant  takes  paincs  to 
enrich  himfclfe,  and  encreale  his  fubftancc  j  fo  doth  the 
faichfiiU  (oLiIc  to  get  poHeflion  of  the  true  trcafure.  Lively 
faith,and  burning  love  towards  the  Lord,lodge  both  toge- 
ther, which  bring  forth  paines  and  forwardncfle  in  the 
workes  ot  holineifc,  willingncffc  and  delight  to  pleafe 
him  \x\  all  things. 

More  particularly  it  may  be  inquired,  How  parents  m 
faith  fhould  prelent  their  children  unto  baptifme ,  W  hat 
ufc  Cbnaiansfhould  make  of  their  baptifmc,  when  they 
cometoageanddifcrction  ;  And  how  wc  are  to  receive 
the  Lords  Supper  in  faith. 

The  dedication  of  a  childc  to  God,  is  a  worke  of  fingu- 
lar  and  great  importance,  one  of  the  weighticft  fcrvices 
wc  can  take  in  hand,though  (wc  may  fcare)  it  is  confidcr- 
cd  of  few.  For  to  fay  nothing  of  the  ignorant  and  profane 
iort.who  favour  not  the  things  of  God,  and  therefore  can 
have  no  reverent  regard  %o  the  fealcs  of  the  covenant  how 
many  bo  there  of  better  hopes,weUinftruaed  in  the  pnn- 
ciplci  of  religion,  diligent  frequenters  of  Gods  Ordinan- 
ces, and  carefull  tobeautifie  tbcir  proteflion  with  an  holy 
converfation,  who  did  never  diftinftly,  and  in  good  ear- 
ned confidcr  of  this  matter?  when  yet  they  muft  needs  ac 
knowledge,  that  it  cannot  be  well  done  as  it  ought,  if  it  be 
notdoneinfaiih. 

The  ads  of  fa.th  in  this  particular  bee  thcfc,  and  fuch 

like. 

Firft,  It  calleth  to  remembrance  the  free  and  gratious 
covenant  which  God  hath  made  with  the  believing  pa- 
rents and  their  pofterity.  /  Am  thy  Cod  ,  and  the  God  of 
thy  feeJe.  Fer  the proMtfe  u  made  MMtoyou,  4fid  to  your 
children^  dndf  att  that  jtrcafarre  ef,  even  44  many  as  the 

D  d  4  Lord 


A*- 


Efay«4.4. 
com.  VNit  1 


ParenTt  fijould 
infaith  prcfent 
their  Child  to 
God  in  Bap- 
ti/ntc. 


The  altt  •f 
faith  in  thu 
farticular, 

I. 

G.en.i7.7,j. 


4o8 


aSam.7.S7. 


How  tt  live  iy  Fnith  in  theufe  »f 


fCi""  ^""^,'i'fi'  which  covenant,as  it  i,  made  with 
the  parents  and  their  feed .  1„  doth  the  faith  ot  the  parent 

inu-^'"^'-  ^'^  this  IS  the  ground  of  that  tender.which 
aChrift,a„makesofhi.Child  unto  holy  Baptiibe  po" 
bynaturallgencrationthc  C(,ildre.i  of  believine  parent, 
are  defiled  with  finne,  and  founder  wrath  :  bXTare 
renLL"'""'"l"'''^^"/"^P-"'°"'  '^^  h^'i^'ing  pa- 
and Volk?"l  *'  "?"'""  P™"'"^  °f  Cod  for  hitSfe^lfe 
andtorhispoaerity.  Iiitat,ts  are  not  borne  Chriftian.!  b« 
natura^I  bmh.  but  made  Chridians  by  vertue  oft  cove^ 

tohim^b;X"fS!°'"'''"''"'"^°"°^"'"^'*=""- 

feI«?,m/Pr ''/"' u  r  '  ''u'-"''"'"5  P"^""  mua  give  them- 
lelv  cs  unto  God,  chufing  hmi  to  be  their  portion,  and  re 
figning  the,r,felves  in  all  -hi,  gs  to  be  guided  by  his  word, 

in  alleftatcsandco.,ditions.Hethat  would dve his XldL 
unto  God,  tnuft  give  himielfe  firft.  I,  it  plobable  hat 
Father  can  truly  defire,  and  long  after  the  preferme„   of 

h  rSrl^'''  '^"^''°'"=  <g"'«  here,  and  of  gVy 
hereafter,who  will  not  enter  h.mfelfe.norfubmit  his  wi» 

hefa;  hTr"-iT"'.'^^.§""  •  Th=  Promifeis  mad^  " 
tftefaithhill;  and  that  faith  one'y,  which  drawee  Tn,,^ 

Third/y.Itprovoketh  parents  to  offer  their  chiMr-» 
untoGodb).  hearty  and  uLined  prayer,  affoo  el  cvt, 
they  have  received  them  from  him.  God^  promife  to  Ic 
ceptourchildren.calleth  for  prayer  and  fupSil^ 
T  fr&'  ^'  ^°'"''  be  Pleafelto  make  gS  4  "  e? 

Z7f  ''^/.^l'.^'';''"  ""  >"»'fi  :  t  bonfire  hJh.hyZ: 
AndfoaoaId,cveryFatber,01ord,th^baffcovenant"d 


to 


Ccds  Ord nances,  the  IVof-daad Sdcramems. 

to  be  my  God,  and  the  God  oFmy  pofterity, there  fore  am 
I  bold  to  intreat  thy  fatherly  acceptance  oFuiy  poore  In- 
fant. 

Fourthly,  It  connderethwFiat  a  fiijgular  prerogative  it 
is,  to  be adu..ll^  admitted  into  covenai.t  with  (3od,  re- 
ceived into  his  family,  and  to  ha  e  his  name  put  upon  us ; 
to  be  partal<(  r  of  the  ka\c  of  rcgeneranon,  remiiTijn  of 
iinnes,  adoption,  ard  evci  laQing  inheritance  j  (olemncly 
to  be  made  free  of  th^  focicty  of  Saints ,  and  weare  the 
Lordi  badge  and  hver\,  Ar,d  what  an  high  and  incoirj- 
prchenfible  mercy  it  is,  that  C>od  hath  promifed ,  and 
doth  vouchfafetleic  great  and  ineftimabie  blelTings,  not 
onely  to  himfcife  a  miferablc  and  wretched  finner,butalfo 
to  his  pofterity ,  who  by  i-aturall  generation  are  enemies 
tohisHighnede,  dcadintreipaflcsjand  m  bondage  unto 
thecurfeofthelaw.  Withtbefeor  tiie  like  meditations 
of  faith,  beh'eving  parents  muft  prefcnt  their  children 
unto  Baptifme,  that  they  might  receive  the  fealc  of  rege- 
neration, remiflion  of  finnes.and  (pirituall  liberty;that  the 
Name  of  God  might  be  fet  upon  them,  and  their  names 
regiftredamongft  the  free  Denifonsot  the  heavenly  le- 
rufaUm.  And  fervent  ef^eduall  prayer  doth  accompany 
this  admiflion,  that  God  would  be  pleafed  to  accept  the 
party  baptized  for  his  childe  by  grace  and  adopion,  re- 
leafe  him  of  his  fins,  and  make  him  partaker  of  his  evcrla- 
fting  kngdomc.  Faith  believeth  what  God  promifeth, 
ashe  proiiifethit;  and  beggeth fervently ,  what  he  gi- 
veth  freely. 

Fiftly ,  It  ftirreth  up  hearty  rejoycing  in  the  Lord,  that 
he  hath  vouchfafedintender  compalTion  to  lookc  upon 
thcm.and  their  pollerity,  and  thus  to  honour  and  advance 
them:  for  the  trueft  Nobility  is  to  be  made  a  Chriftian, 
and  to  live  in  favour  with  God.  A  worldly  Father  wou'd 
much  re  Joyce,  if  his  childefhould  be  preferred  to  fome 
chiefe  Office  in  the  Princes  Court,a{roone  as  it  was  borne.- 
A  Chriftian  Father  hath  much  greater  caufc  of  joy,  that 
he  is  admitted,  not  as  a  fervant,  but  as  a  fonnc  and  hcirc,- 

into 


40P 


4. 


vi  i 


^jr 


A 


4ii 


6, 


Mar.io.i5,i« 


By  ^A'th  *a)u 
Jhuuld  mi\e 
right  ufeoj  our 
BaftiJMe. 


HotPtoli'vehy  Faith  in  theufe  of 

into  the  Court  of  the  great  King  of  Heaven  and  Earth. 
Ifparcntscancompaflebut  a  Leafc  of  feme  Farmc  for 
thcmfelves,  and  theirs,  they  arc  glad:  and  fhall  they 
notrcjoyce,  that  God  hath  by  covenant  and  fcalc  pai- 
fed  the  grant  of  the  Kingdomc  of  Heaven  to  them  and 
theirs  ? 

Sixtly,  It  ftirreth  up  parents  to  be  diligent  and  carefull 
to  bring  up  their  children  in  information  and  feare  of  the 
Lord,  being  inft  ..at  w  ith  God  to  bleflc  their  endeavours 
for  the  good  oftheir  children,  and  the  glory  of  his  name. 
For  thus  faith  perfwadcth :  Thy  childe  is  not  thine ,  but 
the  Itords ;  thou  haft  dedicated  him  unto  the  (crvice  of  his 
Ma/efly,  and  he,  from  whom  thoHrcccivcdft  him  at  firft, 
hath  committed  him  to  thy  charge ,  to  be  trained  up  in 
his  fcarc.  It  is  a  great  honour  to  be  trufted  with  fuch  a 
charge,  and  it  is  a  fearefull  finne  to  ncgleft  fo  great  a  truft. 
Wilt  thou  confecratc  thy  childe  to  God  this  day  ,  and 
leave  him  to  the  Dcvill  for  ever  after?  Wilt  thou  teach 
him  a  trade,  that  he  might  live  as  a  Man ,  and  not  teach 
him  the  way  of  godlinefle ,  that  hce  might  live  as  a  Chri- 
ftian  ?  Didft  thou  not  undertake  for  his  education  in  the 
true  Religion,  and  wilt  thou  neglcdt  the  performance  of 
that  folcmnc  oath  ?  Chrift  commanded  the  children  of 
Chriftian  parents  to  be  broBght  unto  him:  and  wilt  thou 
prcfcnt  them   untaught ,  and  ignorant  of  the  Chriftian 
faith  ?  The  fame  confcience,  which  moved  parents  to  of* 
fer  their  children  to  Baptifme,  will  quicken  them  to  en- 
deavour their  educ  at  ioi!  in  the  true  faith,  and  fcrvicc  of 
God. 

Baptifme  is  a  feale  of  the  covenant  betwixt  God  and  us; 
of  Gods  promife  to  us  that  he  will  be  our  God,and  of  our 
promifc  to  him,  that  we  will  be  his  people,  repent  of  our 
finsjfcclievc  in  Chrift,  &  walkc  before  him  in  fincerc  obe- 
dience.For  fignification,  force,  ufe  and  fruit  it  continucth, 
not  for  a  moment  of  time ,  but  for  the  whole  courfe  of  a 

)'  mans  life.  It  doth  rcfpet*t  not  oncly  the  time  paft,and  pre- 
sent, but  that  which  is  to  come  j  yea,  that  whole  time  a 
man 


411 


Tbeti/etobe, 
made  of  our 
B.iptifmi  U 
tivo-foH. 

X. 


Gcds  Ordnances,  the  Word ojjd Sacrdme  its. 

man  hath  to  fpcnd,  from  the  very  ad  o^  his  Baprilmc,  to 
his  death.  For  as  it  is  the  fealc  of  a  free,  cverlalHng  ,  un- 
changeable covenant ;  fo  is  the  force  and  ufe  of  it  pcrpe- 
tuali.  Baptifme  is  the  true  Sacrament  of  repentance,  for 
rcmiflion  of  fmnes ,  and  fpirituall  renovation ,  which 
being  once  received ,  remaineth  a  perpcruall  teftimo- 
ny  and  pledge  of  the  everlafting  Covenant  of  God,  and 
continuall  wadiing  away  of  fmne  by  the  bloud  of  Chrift, 
and  the  Spirit  of  landification.  By  fingular  appropria- 
tion it  rcprefentc  h  and  confirmetn  our  engratiing  into 
Chrift,  but  withall  it  fealcth  the  whole  Covenant  of 
grace. 

The  ufe  of  Baptifmc  is  twofold.  Firft,  It  fervcs  to  bee 
a  pledge  and  token  of  Gods  favour ,  and  that  divers 
waycs. 

Firft,  In  that  it  is  a  fcalc  of  our  regeneration  by  the  ho- 
ly Spirit,  whereby  a  divine  quality  is  infufed  into  us,  in 
the  roomc  and  place  of  originall  corruption.  And  there- 
fore Baptifme  (as  the  text  is  ordinarily  expounded}  is  cal- 
led the  U'uer  »f  regeneration  :  it  being  an  ufuall  thing 
to  caU  the  principall  caufc,and  the  inftrument  by  the  fame 
name. 

Secondly,  It  fealeth  and  confirmeth  unto  ns  the  free 
pardon  and  forgivencflc  of  our  fins.  Repsnt  and  be  bapti^id 
every  cneofjouin  the  Name  oflefns  ChriJ} ^for  the remijjion  I  ^'^•^  i^ 
of  Jinx,  tyirife  and  be  baptU^d^and  tvafb  away  thy  ^nnestCal-   ^^^1.1 1  1 5 
ling  on  the  T^me  of  the  Lord, 

Thirdly,  Baptifme  is  a  pledge  of  the  vertue  of  Chrifts 
deathjand  of  our  fellow  fhip  therein. Z)tf<?  yee  not  know  tb.tt 
all weywho have beene  bapti<,edi»to  leftu  (^hriftyhave  beene 
haptizj:dinto  his  death  ? 

Fourthly,  It  is  alfo  a  pledge  of  the  vertue  of  Chrifls 
life,  and  ofour  communion  with  him  therein.  The  life  of 
Chrift  is  the  life  of  every  believer,  who  liveth  in  Chrift, 
(hall  live  for  ever  with  him,  and  in  him  :  a  certaine 
pledge  whereof  he  hath  given  us  in  this  Sacrament.  For  ij 
ve  have  beene  planted  together  in  the  likenes  of  his  deathr  we 

fhali 


Titus  J.  J. 


2. 


5. 

Rom. 6.;. 


ilon^.f. 


U: 


412 


Col.£.I2. 


Gea.48.1^. 


Gal.5.j6,i7. 


6, 


1C0r.1i.i3. 

Ephff.^.f. 


Mark  \6,\S. 
Titus  3.S>^j7« 
1  Pct.5.21, 


Hm  to  live  by  Faith  in  the  ufe  of 

■fhAll  be  tttfo  in  the  rikeftejfe  of  hii  refMrre^ion.  Buried  with 
him  in  'Baptifme  reherein  a  '[oyott  are  rifen  with  h\n\.,through 
the  faith  of  the  operniion  tfGod,  -who  hath  VAijed  him  from  ' 
the  dead. 

Fiftly,  Baptifme  is  a  pledge  of  our  adoption  in  Chrift. 
By  nature   wee  are   the   children  of  wrath :  but  by 
grace  and  adoption  the  fonnes  of  God,  through  faith  in 
Chrift  J  which  is  fealed  m  Baptifme,  wherein  the  name  of 
the  Father,  Sonne,  and  holy  Spirit  is  put  upon  us.  When 
/^co^  blefled  the  fonnes  ,cf  lofe^h^  Ephraim  and  Manaf- 
fes,  faying,  Let  my  name  bee  named  on  them  ;  he  adopted 
them  for  his  fonnes,  to  have  inheritance  with  them  in  the 
hndof  Canaan:  and  when  God  putteth  his  name  upon 
us,  hefignifierhandaflurethtliat  we  are  his  fonnes.  Tee 
are  all  the  childn^n  of  God  by  faith  in  Chrift  Isftu.  For  oi 
many  of  yon ,  as  have  beene  bapti<.edinto  Chrifljjave  put  on 
I  Chrifi. 

I  Sixthly  Baptifme  is  a  folemne  tcftimony  of  our  com- 
j  munion  with  all  the  lively  members  of  Chfift  Jcfus.  It  is 
I  a  feale  of  the  bond  of  mutuall  love  and  fellowfhip ,  botli 
I  of  Chrift  with  his  members,  and  of  his  members  one 
\  with  another.  For  by  one  Spirit  are  wee  all  bapdzed  into 
lone  body,  whether  wee  be  lewes  or  gentiles,  whether  inee 
bee  bond  or  free :  And  Baptifme  is  one  of  thofe  things 
whereby  the  unity  of  the  Spirit  is  prefcrved  in  the  bond 
of  peace. 

Seventhly,  It  is  a  feale  and  pledge  to  affure ,  that  God 
will  provide  for  us  in  this  life,  raife  up  out  bodies  unto 
life  at  thelaftday  of  Judgement,  and  beftow  upon  us  that 
cverlafting Kingdome and  Inheritance,  which  hee  hath 
prepared.  For  in  Baptifme  the  Lord  doth  promifc  to  be 
our  God,  that  he  will  provide  us  of  all  things  ncccflary 
forfoule  and  body,  turnc  all  evils  which  dofc  befall  in  tbis 
miferable  life,  to  the  furth  ranee  of  our  falvation  raife  up 
our  bodies  at  the  laft  day,  and  receive  us  unto  himfeU'e  to 

I'  dwell  with  him  for  evermore. 
In  all  which  refpeds  Baptifme  is   of  great  force  to 
ftrengthen 


Gcds  Ordnances,  the  Word  and  Sacraments. 

(Ircngthcn  faith,  and  cafe  the  heart  in  diftrcflc.  For  when 
the  rcpentmt  finncr  feeles  liimfcire  heavy  laden  with  the 
burdenof  l:isfinries»  when  Sathan  tempts  hirn  to  doubt 
or  defpairc  in  regard  of  his  con  uptions ;  when  his  owne 
corruption  moveth  him  to  {inne>and  he  is  even  now  in  the 
combatc, th^^  Spirit Inftiig  againft  thcflefh,  and  the  fiefii 
lufting  agamft  the  Spirit  j  and  when  he  is  deeply  perplex- 
ed with  f care  of  blling  away  :  then  the  confideration  and 
remembrance  of  what  was  promifed ,  and  fealedin  Bap- 
tifme  vvilUervetoftay,  fupport,  and  comfoit  the  foulc. 
Vox  there  he  l"hall  finde  that  his  name  is  written  in  the  co- 
venant of  God,  that  God  hath  promifed  to  give  Chrift  to 
be.his  Redeemer. to  accept  of  Chrifts  fatisfadion  for  him, 
towafliaway  all  his  fins,  as  certainely  as  the  water  wa- 
flicth  away  the  filth  of  the  body:  and  having  fuch  a  faith- 
full  promife  confirmed  by  feale  ,  wherefore  fliould  he  be 
difmayed  ?  In  Baptifmealfo  God  hath  fealed  unto  him 
the  mortification  ot  his  finnc  by  the  power  of  Chrifts 
death  :  which  is  ground  of  confidcnce,tbat  God  will  cna* 
blc  him  to  overcome  the  rebellious  lufts  of  his  heart,  and 
crucifie  the  old  man  more  and  more,  untill  the  body  of  fin 
be  utterly  dcftroyed.  True  it  is,  that  man  by  nature  is  dead 
infinne  *.  but  in  Baptifmc,  God  of  his  mercy  hath  fealed 
unto  the  believer,  his  rifing  from  the  death  of  finne  to 
ne  wncffe  of  life.Trus  it  is,that  of  our  felvcs  wc  arc  prone 
to  fall  away  from  grace  received  :  But  God  of  his  rich 
grace  fealethunto  the  faithfijll  in  Baptifme  a  Refurrcdion 
unto  immortall  life ,  which  iLall  grow  daily ,  but  never 
decay, 

if  the  f  aithfiUl  be  af  flided,and  defpilcd  of  men,per  fe:u- 
ted  and  forfaken,  caft  out  of  the  vifible  Congregation,a  ,d 
banifhed  from  the  houfe  of  God  :  yea,  even  in  the  agonies 
of  death;  the  remembrance  of  the  promifes  fealed  in 
Baptifmc,  will  afford  comfort.  Tor  if  men  have  forfaken, 
God  hath  received  them  j  If  men  fcorne  and  contemnc, 
the  Lord  will  acknowledge  them.  He  hath  long  agoe 
fealed  them  for  his  owne,  received  tfcem  into  his  family, 

under 


413 


Rom.  ^.9,  to. 


414 


II.    Vfe. 


Mar^e  i  4. 


How  u  live  by  Faith  in  the  ufe  of 

undertaken  to  provide  for  them,  and  adopted  thera  as 
hcires  apparanttothe  Kingdome  of  Heaven.  If  God  had 
given  them  his  word  alone  for  fccurity j  it  had  bcene  fuf- 
ficient ;  But  having  confirmed  it  by  fcalc  in  Baptifme, 
they  have  great  caufe  to  reft  aflbred.  True  it  is  they  may 
be  caft  oucof  the  vilible  affemblies,  but  they  can  never  be 
cut  off  from  the  invifiblc  Communion  of  Saints-.  They 
muftdis,  but  God  hath  fealed  unto  them  thtir  riiing 
from  the  grave  to  everlafting  life,  by  the  grower  and  ver- 
tueofCh.iils  Refurredion  :  which  is  a  comfort  of  all 
comforts,  able  co  uphold  the  foule  of  man  in  the  houre  of 
death.  '    \ 

Thefecondufeof  Baptifme,  it  is  a  feale  of  our'dn-^  1 
typromiied,  and  fo  a  fpurrc  and  provocation  to  re- [ 
pentance ,  faith ,  new-obedience ,  brotherly  love ,  and 
unity. 

Pirft,  It  is  a  fpurrc  to  repentance  and  mortification -.for 
Baptifme  doth  fcalc  remiirion  of  finnes  to  them  only  that 
repent,  and  by  godly  forrow  come  home  unto  God.  And 
as  we  expe6l  the  blefling.wc  muQ:  looke  that  we  faile  not 
in  the  condition.  If  wc  be  buried  with  Chrill  in  Bap- 
tifme, it  is  our  duty  to  mortifie  the  flcfh  with  the  affetfti- 
ons  and  lufts,  that  it  may  live  no  longer ,  to  bring  forth  | 
fruits  unto  death.  For  a  dead  man  cannot  live.  By  fo-  I 
lemne  oath  we  are  bound  to  crucifie  unruly  lufts,  which 
fight  againft  the  foule  :  and  fhall  we  falfifie  fo  great  a  pro- 
mife  ?  Againft  whom  fliould  wc  fight,  if  not  againft  Sa- 
than?  or  what  will  he  be  willing  to  fpare  for  the  Lords 
fake ,  who  will  not  part  with  his  finnes  ?  Why  ftiould 
wc  fcarc  the  ftrength  of  Sathan  ,  the  power  of  finne  , 
the  rage  of  perfecucors ,  the  lofTe   of  earthly   things } 
ordefpairebecaufeof  the  wrath  of  God  /uRly  kindled 
againft  finne.  IfweturncuntoGod  by  unfained  repen- 
tance, wc  have  his  faithfuU  promife  confirmed  by  feaie, 
that  he  will  be  mcrcifnll  unto  our  finnes,  cRablc  us  to 

(overcome  our  corruptions,  fortific  us  againft  the  powers 
ofHcU.fupport  us  under,  or  deliver  us  out  of  all  trials, 
and 


Gods  Ord'nances,  the  Word  and  SacrAmems. 


415 


•U-t 


and  gratioufly  provide  whatfocver  fliall  be  ncedefull 
for  us.  .    . 

Secondly,  It  isia  provocation  unto  faith,  and  a  pledge  2 
thereof.  W  e  have  the  promife  of  God  under  his  hand  and 
feale,  that  he  will  waQi  us  from  our  iniquities ,  receive  us 
for  his  children,  remember  our  neceflities ,  beftow  upon 
us  the  Kingdome  of  Heaven  :  weilialldoe  great  wrong 
anddillionourtoGodjif  wedoubc  or  make  queftion, 
whether  he  will  performc  promife  freely  made,3nd  con- 
firmed by  covenant  and  feale.  We  arc  bound  by  co.r;- 
mandement  to  believe  in  Jefjs  Chrifr,  and  to  commit  our 
felvesv,/hollyuntohim,asuntoafaithfull  Saviour:  And 
we  have  bound  our  fclves  by  promife,covenant  and  feale, 
that  we  will  believe  and  cleave  unto  him,  as  our  only  Sa 
vioiir:  fliall  wethengoe  backe,  grow  rcmille,  cr  ^Wc 
way  to  doubting  ?  Ifdoubtings  arife,  through  the  dght 
offinnc,  or  want  of  f  enfe  and  feeling  comfort,  or  ihc 
world  begin  to  crecpe  into  the  heart ,  and  divide  it  from 
Chriftj  let  us  then  remember,  we  have  troth-plighted 
our  felves  to  Jcfus  Chrift,  and  by  faithful! promifc,never 
to  be  called  backe,  given  our  felves  wholly  to  rell ,  and 
ftickc  dole  unto  him :  and  therefore  muft  admit  no 
thought,  whereby  we  ihould  be  drawne  alidc^  or  divided 
from  him. 

Thirdly,  It  is  an  incitement  unto  new  obedience,and  a 
pledge  thereof.  Wee  are  buried  ivith  bim  by  'Baptifme  ifito  j, 
dcAth^  th/it  likf  as  Ckrifl  hvas  raifed  ftp  from  the  dead,  by  '  "^ 
t  If  glory  of  the  Father :  Evtrt  fo  yvee  alfo  Jhould  vealke 
inne-wncf^eoflife:  in  which  Chapter  th:!  Apoftle  difpu- 
tethofour  ad:ions,  that  wc  fhould  abftaine  from  cviil 
and  follow  thofe  that  arc  good.  Wc  have  folemnely 
fworne  to  fight  againfl:  the  Devill,  the  World,  a;id  the 
Flefli;  and  having  taken  the  prefle- money  of  Jefus 
Chrift  ,  it  were  an  immortall  difgrace  to  accept  of  truce 
with  Sathan.  Wee  carry  the  badge  and  livery  of  .]eius 
Chrid,  and  fliall  we  f 01  fake  our  colours, and  fight  for  the 
Devill?  It  is  ftrange,  that  children  fliould  leave  their  pa- 
rents 


a- 


416 


*The)ie'ivexer' 
cife  of  faith  re- 
quired in  the 
wtrthji  recei' 
ving  the  Lords 
Supper. 


The  A^s  0/ 
faith  in  thii  or- 
dinance. 

I. 


HevduUvehj  Faith  in  theufe  (f 

rents  and  take  part  with  their  enemies :  Wee  have  given 
oar  fclves  unto  God ,  and  were  once  dedicated  unto  his 
fervice;ftiall  wc  now  turne  backe,and  offer  our  fclves  un- 
to Sathan  ?  Honour  is  due  unto  parents ;  li  God  be  our 
Fatherj  we  muft  freely  fubmit  our  felves  to  his  will  and 
pleafure.  God  will  ftrengtben  us  to  obey,  and  accept  of 
weake,  if  fincere  obedience  :  and  that  fliats  forth  all  place 
of  excufe.If  we  be  engrafted  into  the  fimilitude  of  Chrifts 
rcfurredlion,  wc  muft  exprefle  by  our  adions  the  power 
and  likeneffe  of  Chrifts  refurredionjwhich  is  done,when 
we  walke  in  all-pleafing  before  God,and  fee  our  affedions 
upon  things  above.Andthis,as  it  is  commanded  on  Gods 
part,  fo  it  is  fealcd  on  our  part  in  Baptifme. 

Fourthly,  It  is  a  pledge  or  pawnc  of  love  and  unity. 
We  muft  keepc  the  unity  of  the  fpirit  in  the  bond  of 
peace ;  for  wc  are  all  baptized  into  one  body.  Wee  muft 
not  jarrcjfor  we  are  brethren :  We  muft  not  quarrell  nor 
contend,  for  we  are  members  of  the  fame  body,  and  have 
beene  fcaled  into  the  fame  body.  It  goeth  ill  with  the  na- 
tural! body,  when  the /oynts  are  diflblved  :  it  is  unnatu- 
rail  that  the  members  of  the  body  myfticall  fhould  be  di- 
vided. 

*  It  is  not  the  having  faith,  but  the  new  exercifc  of 
faith,  which maketh us  worthy  receivers  of  the  Lords 
Supper.  The  ^om/^J4«/ had  faith,  yet  received  not  the 
grace  of  the  Sacrament,  becaufc  they  received  not  in 
Faith. 

The  ads  of  faith  in  receiving  the  Lords  Supper  are 
many. 

FirftjByitwe  difcemc  the  Sacrament  to  be  the  holy 
Ordinance  of  God,  inftituted  for  our  fpcciall  good  and 
benefit,  fcaling  unto  us  the  promifes,  which  God  of  his 
free  mercy  hath  made  unto  us  in  Jefus  Chrift .  By  faith  we 
uiiderftand  what  promifes  God  hath  made ,  for  what 
caufe,  in  whom  he  hath  made  them,  what  he  requiretb, 
&  how  he  hath  fcaled  his  free  promifes  in  the  Sacrament, 
And  the  ccrtaine,  diftind,  cleare,  effcduall  knowledge  of 

this) 


~f- 


Geds  Ordinmces^the  Word  and  Sacraments. 


this  pomt,ts  a  matter  oFfingular  and  great  importance  For 
if  worldly  men  make  good  account  of  a  lufficient  mans  (c- 
curitv  for  fome  great  fummc  of  money  j  in  what  cftceme 
will  a  Chriftian  have  this  pledge  of  Gods  f  avour,whcn  he 
certainly  undcrftands  what  it  doth  fignific  and  aiTure  ? 

Secondly,  By  it  we  fee  what  the  Lord  doth  otter  unto 
us  therein,  how  cxccUer.t  and  precious  it  is,  with  what 
aflurance  it  is  freely  tendered,  and  may  be  received  The 
outward  figres  in  the  Sacrament  are  vifiblc  to  the  bodily 
eve-  but  the  inward  grace  fignificdand  fcaled thereby, 
which  muft  (er iouOy  be confidered  and  minded  of  usis  not 
manifcft.  but  to  the  underftanding  er.lightncd  by  the  Spi- 
rit,and  feafoned  by  faitb,which  onely  can  judge  diftm^flly 
of  its  worth  and  excellencie.  ja-       u 

Thirdlv,It  (harpeneth  fpirituall  appetite,and  ftirreth  up 
hunorin-  &  thirfting  after  Chrift,and  his  benefits.  By  faith 
we  fee  o^'ur  want,  by  faith  we  tafte  how  good  the  Lord  is, 
how  fweetand  pleafantthe  dainties  hee  hath  prepared ; 
which  raifeth  an  appetite  of  defirc,  arid  complacencie.  O 
Go4,  thoH  art  my  Co  J,  early  mil  I  fceke  thee  :  my  fo*>le 
thif^ethfor  thee,  my  fiejh  hngeth  for  thee.  The  Sacrament 
ofthc  Lords  Supper  is  a  -reat  and  fpirituall  feaft,wherun- 
tothe  faithful!  are  invited  :  and  faith  wbetteth the  fpiri- 
tuall  appetite  to  long  after,  and  rellifti  thefatnefleand 
marrow,  which  is  there  provided. 

Fourthly,  It  earneftly  contcndethfor  mercy,  confefling 
fm  with  eriefe  and  hatred,  judging  and  condemning  it 
freely,  unfainedly  begging  pardon  with  ftrength  ofgrace 
to  withftand  fin  for  the  time  to  come.  Whcnfoever  faith 
commeth  toreceive  the  feale  of  pardon,itplcadeth  guilty, 
humbleth for tranfgrefllon,  and irtreateth  f^^^^^^^^;  f 
undeferved  mercy,  that  grace  might  be  magnified  in  for- 

^  FUtly  By  faith  we  rcceiveChrift  offerin-  himfelfc  free- 
ly to  be  contra^.d  unto  us.Chrift  maketh  love  as  a  fuiter 

and  hath  given  tVe  Sacrament  as  a  token  othis  bve  and 
faithfulnete :  faith  apprehendeth  the  mifcTic  of  the^fo^^^^^^ 

t  e 


417 


\\ 


2. 


rfal.fij.i. 


4. 


4iS 


5. 


Rom.7.4. 


7- 

{olin.6.j;f. 


8, 


Cant.z.  i5.  << 


//(?w  f ^  //i/^  bj  Faith  in  the  ufe  of 

without  Chriftjthc  excellent  dignity , honour  and  beauty  of 
Chrift,  and  the  happinefle  of  the  (oule  which  is  united  un- 
to himjand  thereupon  humbly  embraccth  his  offer  of  love. 
Sixtly,  By  faith  wee  refigne  up  our  fclvcs  unto  Jefus 
Chrift,and  willingly  yeeldfoule  and  body  unto  him.  This 
the  nature  of  the  matrimoniall  contraift,  which  pafleth  be- 
twixt Chrift,  and  the  believer,  rcquireth  :  for  as  Chrift 
promifeth  to  be  a  Saviour,Head  and  Husband  unto  the  be- 
liever :fo  doth  he  troth-plight  hiaifclfe  unto  Jefus  Chrift, 
to  cleave  unto  bim  as  his  onely  Saviour,  and  in  all  things 
to  be  obedient  unto  his  will  and  pleafure.    therefore  my 
brethren^  yee  arc  alfo  become  dead  to  the  Law  by  the  body  of 
Chrifi,  thatyejhouldbetn^rriidto  another ^cven to  him  vcho 
ii  raifed  from  the  dead^  that  we  Jhould  bring  forth  fruit  unto 
God, 

Seventhly,  faith  feedeth  upon  Chrift,  and  fucketh  vi- 
gour from  him.  His  fieJJ^  is  meate  indeed,  and  his  blond  is 
drinhe  indeed.  Mcate  to  be  eateUinot  with  the  teethjbut  by 
faith.  Meate  indeed,  not  in  nature,but  in  efleft,  becaufe  it 
nouri{heth  the  foule,  andgiveth  erernall  life  to  them  that 
cate  thereof.  And  by  faith  we  fpiritually  eate  the  flelTi  of 
the  Sonne  of  Man,  and  drinke  his  bloud.  And  as  he  chat 
cateth  whollome  food,is  ftrengthcned  thereby,and  made 
fit  and  able  for  the  anions  of  this  life  j  io  he  that  feedeth 
upon  Chrift  fpirituiUy  and  by  faith, is  ftrcngthened  to  the 
adions  of  fpirituall  life,and  made  able  for  the  exercifes  of 
piety  and  holinefle. 

Eightly,Faith  aflureth  of  that  fpirituall  contrad  v»^hich 

hath  paffed  betwixt  Chrift  and  the  Chriftian  foule,  and  is 

fealed  in  the  Sacrament ;  I'o  that  he  may  truly  fay,  CHy 

beloved  is  mine, and  I  am  his .  Asacouple,  whohavelaw- 

;  fully  given  faith  to  each  other,  and  confirmed  the  fame  by 

\  pledge  or  token  in  th;  congregation,  are  aftured  of  each 

'  other  :fo  when  we  have  contrafled  our  felvcs  unto  Chrift, 

j  and  received  the  pledge  thereof, we  come  to  be  aflured  by 

I  faithjthat  Chrift  is  ours,  and  that  we  have  communion  in 

all  ihc  benefits  of  his  death  and  paflion.  Thus  faith  reafo- 

! neth, 


Geds  Ordinances ^the  Word  and  Sacraments. 


neth,  God  the  Father  hath  freely  promifcd  the  pardon  of 
all  finnes  in  and  through  Jefus  Chrift  ;  Chrift  doth  offer 
himfclfe  as  a  Redeemer  to  deliver  them  from  the  power 
of  darkenes,  and  to  bring  them  into  perpctuall  grace  with 
his  Father,  towafli  them  from  their  finpes  byhisbloud 
and  fpirit,and  to  preferve  and  nourifh  them  unto  life  eter- 
nall,  who  will  receive  and  believe  in  him.    And  being  fo 
lovingly  called  and  invited,  I  have  received  the  mcrcifuH 
promife,  and  refigned  my  felfe  unto  Jefus  Chrift  ;  why 
then  rhculd  I  ftand  in  doubt  ?  I  hcarc  the  word  of  pro-  : 
mifc,  I  fee  and  have  received  the  feales  annexed  to  the  | 
Word  of  grace,  the  true  and  faithfull  tcftimony  of  God 
confirmed  by  oath,  and  I  may  not  qucftion  his  truth,  nor 
draw  baike  from  mine  ownc  promife  to  reft  upon,  and 
cleave  unto  him  fur  evermore. 

Ninthly,  It  ftirreth  up  joy  and  thankfulncfle,  withfc- 
rious  remembrance  of  the  manifold  benefits  and  blefllngs 
which  in  Chrift  Jefus  arc  vouchfafed.  When  men  have  a 
ieafc  of  fomc  good  bargainc  fealed,  they  are  merry  and 
glad  J  much  greater  caufe  of  /oy  have  they,  who  have  re- 
ceived from  God,  who  cannot  lie,  fuch  a  pledge  of  his 
love,  the  fcalc  of  an  everlafting  inheritance.  Arife,0  my 
foulc,  and  fing  for  /oy,  for  thy  light  is  come,  and  the 
olory  of  the  Lord  is  rifen  upon  thee.    Thoudidft  fitin 
darknefte,  fbrlornc  and  miferable,  guilty  of  fm,  in  bon- 
dage to  the  curfe,  in  feare  of  eternall  condemnation  :  but 
now  God  is  appeafed,  Chrift  hath  fatisfied  jufticc,  par- 
don is  proclaimed,  thou  haft  received  the  free  gracious 
promife,  and  eternall  bleflcd  peace  is  concluded.    And 
for  thy  greater  aflurance,  God  hath  added  his  feale  to 
his  free  grant  of  pardon  :  holy  bread  is  added,  and  given 
to  thee  for  a  Sacrament  and  divine  tcftimonie,  that  the 
body  of  Chrift  was  crucified  for  thee  :  bleffed  wine  is 
added,  and  given  to  thee,  for  a  certaine  pledge  and  token, 
that  the  bloud  of  Chrift  was  fhed  for  thee,  thatrlghteouf- 
neffe  purchafed  by  that  facrifice  is  thine,that  eternall  ialva- 
tion  procured  by  that  price  is  thine  by  an  irrevocable  title. 
^  Ee2  Praifo 


41P 


\\   r. 


'/^ 


42< 


B<>vp  to  Uvt  hj  Fdith  in  the  ufi  ^ 


Meintstofiirre' 
up  eur  jtlves 
torecehe  the 
Lords  Supper 
in  faith. 
I. 


2. 


I  PraiTc  the  Lord,  O  my  foulc,  and  forget  not  the  great  love 

\  of  God  in  giving  his  Sonne  to  die,  that  thou  mighteft  be 

i  delivered  from  the  fearc  of  hell  and  death ;  forget  not  the 

1  Love  of  Chrift  in  fufF;ring  death,  that  thou  raighteft  be 

1  fet  free  from  the  airfe  otthe  law,  and  burning  wrath  of 

I  God  dcferved  by  Hnnc;  forget  not  the  grace  and  favour  of 

,  God  in  calh'pg  thee  to  feaft  with  him,  and  giving  this 

j  pledge  and  earncft  of  his  pcrpctuall  love.    Thou  canft  not 

forget  thcfe,  but  thou  forgetteft  thy  Iclfe  :  thou  canft  not 

negled  thefe,  but  thou  hateft  thy  felfe.    What  canft  thou 

defire  morc,then  to  have  God  to  be  thy  God,Chrift  to  thy 

Saviour?  Vy  hat  wou'dft  thou  remember  if  thou  forget  the 

loveof  Chrift  in  fuff.ring  death  for  thy  redemption,  and 

the  earneft  of  his  love,  whereby  he  doth  affure,  that  his 

bodie  was  crucified,  and  bis  bloud  (bed  for  the>;  ? 

Now  the  better  to  ftirre  up  our  fclves  to  receive  this 
Sacrament  in  faith. 

Firft,We  muft  bcWxiiic  our  a  ibeliefe,dulne0c,earthly- 
mindednefTsjthe  diftcmper  of  our  ipirituall  taftc,and  con- 
ceit offpirituall  fulneffcjlabouringtx)  quicken  the  fenfeof 
our  milery,and  raifc  the  loulc  to  an  bigb  pryfing  of  Chrift, 
and  hungring  after  hi  Ji,  Emptineffe  prepares  to  receive 
meatc,and  hunger  gives  it  a  good  rcli{h;and  if  we  fee  our 
mifery  and  nakednefle  withoutChrift,and  thirft  after  him, 
we  (hall  eate  hi?  flcfh,  and  drinke  his  bloud  with  fwcetc 
comfort  and  refirefliing. 

Secondly,  Confider  how  freely  the  Lord  doth  tender 
Chrift  to  bee  received  in  his  Word  and  Sacrament.  The 
Lord,I  fay,  faitbfuil  in  his  promifes,  plentiful!  in  mercies, 
who  hath  authority  to  give  what  he  promifeth,  offcrcth 
Chrift  with  all  the  benefits  of  his  death  and  paffion,  to 
every  poore,  defpifed,  thirftte,  afflifted  foule,  who  doth 
defire  and  will  receive  him. 

Thirdly,  W  eigh  and  confider  the  bleffed  ftatc  and  con- 
dition of  them,  who  be  reconciled  unto  God,  contradcd 
unto  Jefus  Chrift,  who  are  eafed  from  their  fins,  waflied 
from  their  filthincflc,  and  feperated  unto  glory  :  and  fo 
_^____^      quicken 


421 


lohn,6.^6. 


Gods  Ordinances ythc  rvcrd  and  Sacraments . 

quicken  our  foules  to  receive  and  lay  faft  hold  upon  thefc 
ineftimablc  benefits  off«:rcd  unto  us  by  name. 

Fourthly,  Having  troth-plighted  our  felvcs  to  Jefus 
Chrift  unfainedly,  wee  mufl:  awaken  and  rowfeapoar 
foulcs  to  rcjoycc  in  hi  m. What  can  I  dcfire  more?God  the 
Father  hath  given  his  onely  begotten  Sonne  to  be  my  Sa- 
viour, and  1  have  received  and  am  betrothed  unto  him  :  a 
firme  peace  is  concluded ,an  evcrlafting  inheritance  is  aflh- 
rcd  unto  me.  I  have  a  good  legacy  bcc,ueathed  unto  me  in 
the  promile-^j  whereunto  I  fticke  ;  fcaled  unto  me  in  the 
Sacrament,  which  I  may  produce  as  an  evidence  to  ftop 
the  month  of  Satan,if  hee  fliall  contend  and  feeke  to  robbc 
me  of  my  priviledges  beftowed  of  grace.  If  I  be  hunger- 
ftarved  in  my  felfe,the  body  of  Chrift  is  true  meate,nouri- 
fliing  me  to  life  eternall ;  If  thirftie  and  dcftitute  of  the 
fappe  of  grace,  the  bloud  of  Chrift  is  true  drinke,  nouri- 
fliing  me  to  life  eternall :  and  eating  his  flefli,  and  drin- 
king his  bloud,  he  d welleth  in  me,  and  I  in  hi  m.  Thus  wc 
muft  quicken  our  hearts  to  rej'oycc  in  beliefc  ofthc  pro- 
mifes  made  and  fcaled,waiting  uponGod,till  he  be  pleafed 
to  give  the  fence  and  comfort  of  it. 


CHAP.  XII. 

The  faithfnll  4re  bound^  and  it  U  behovefuUfor 
them,  to  believe  the  threAtnings, 

GOd  is  afwell  juft  as  mercifull/aithfull  and  true  as  well 
in  his  thrcats,as  in  his  promifcs :  and  therefore  equal- 
ly to  be  believed  in  both,  fo  farre  as  in  his  word  he  hath 
aflured  us  of  both.  He  who  \i  certainc  of  his  falvation, 
knowcih  affuredly,  he  {hould  be  damned,  if.he  (hould  goe 
on  in  fin  without  repentance,  and  (hall  taftc  of  much  bit- 
terneflc,  if  he  grow  indulgent  to  bis  corruptions.  It  is  as 
furc,that  God  will  condemne  the  wicked  and  impenitent,  { 
as  that  he  will  iave  the  righteous  and  repentant.  If  P  ahI^  i  Ccr  -9.27. 

E  e  3       beatc 


fv 


422 


rhefaithfuU  dreboundjon^t  is  hehovefull 


E2ck,i8.J4,i6 


bcatc  not  dovvne  his  body,  and  bring  it  into  fubjcdionhc 
fliall  be  as  drofle  and  refuie.  If  the  righteons  ferfake  hif 
righteoufrjejfe  4»d  commit  veicksdne^ey  or  be  a  worker  of 
iniqHttyy  all  his  former  righteoHjnejfe/hMll  be  forgotten. 

The  godly  man  is  not  flavi(hly  to  fearc  falling  away,  or 
running  into  deftru(flion;but  wifely  to  believe  the  threat- 
ningSjto  prevent  Falling  into  finne,  and  fo  into  condemna- 
tion.The  liibjed,  who  feareththe  punifhment  of  the  law, 
I  and  keepeth  himfelfc  innocent,  taketh  a  wife  courfe  for 
his  owne  fecurity. 

Every  part  ot  Scripture  is  Gods  Word,  of  certaine  and 
undoubted  truth,  which  cannot  be  gaine-laid  j  written  for 
the  benefit  and  profittof  them  who  fhall  be  heircs  of  faka- 
tion  ;  But  the  threatnings  are  part  of  the  Word  of  God. 
Rom.  I  f  .4.  I  Whdtfoever  things  were  written  afore-time(even  as  well  ex- 
amples of  judgement  infli(5led  upon  tranfgreffburs,  and 
threatnings  denounced  againft  them  that  fliall  offend,  as 
promifes  of  mercy  to  allure  unto  obedience)were  written 
for  ottr  learning  and  inftruAion. 

In  the  ftate  of  innocencie  there  was  ufe  of  threatnings, 
fo  is  there  in  the  flate  of  grace.  As  a  meanes  to  keepe  our 
firft  parents  from  (inne,  the  Lord  denounceth  death  a- 
gainft  them,  if  they  fhould  eate  of  the  forbidden  fruitc. 
lob  profefTcth,  he  durfl:  not  lift  up  his  hand  againft  the  "^z- 
thcvlci^c^for  deJ}ru5lion  from  Godwas  4  terreurnnto  himSo 
Pfal.1 19.1 10.  i  David,  Mypp}  tremblethforfeare  of  thee :  and  I  am  afraid  \ 
of  thy  Itt^gements,  The  righteous  man  wifely  confidereth  the  \ 
houfeofths  wicked:  bat  God  overthroweth  the*wickedfor  \ 
their  wickednejfe.  j 

And  fure  ic  is  expedient  for  u?,  that  threatnings  fhould  '{ 
be  mingled  with  the  promifes  of^grace  •,  for  (fo  prone  are 
we  to  flatter,and  favour  our  fclves)  milder  docflrinc  would 
grow  colde,  Hnles  thefe  fpurrs  were  added.  The  tartneffe  I 
of  the  threatning  makes  us  beft  taft  the  fweetnefle  of  the 
promife ;  Sowre  and  fweet  make  the  beft  fauce; promifes 
and  threatnings  mingled  fit  our  ftate,and  ferve  to  keep  the 
heart  in  the  beft  temper.  We  grow  overbold  with  God,if 

the 


I  Cor,  10.^. 


Job.ji.iijZj 


Pro.  a  1. 1  a. 


for  them^to  believe  the  thrutnmgs. 

the  thrcatning  doc  not  awe  •  arc  foonc  dc/ccfled,  if  the 
promife  doe  notfupport.  The  Lord  knowcth  both  ne- 
ceflary  to  kcepe  us  in  awe ;  and  therefore  beginneth  with 
promifes,  to  the  intent  w*;  might  follow  him  the  more 
willingly ;  but  to  drive  forward  when  we  flop,  or  grow 
rcmifle,  he  addcth  thrcatnings.  fVherefore  we  receiving  « 
kingdome  which  cannot  be  movedj  let  m  havegracey  rvherehy 
roe  mayferve  ^od  accept  ably.tfith  reverence  and  godly  feare. 
For  our  God  u  a  confumingjire, 

T!ic  ads  of  faith  in  refpcd:  of  the  threatnings  bee 
thefe. 

PirO,  It  workethhumbUnenc  of  mindeandhcirt :  for 
u  hat  the  law  thrcatncth.thc  faithfull  will  freely  acknow- 
Iedge,that  they  dcfervc,and  fo  arraigne  themfelvcs  as  guiU 
tie  of  all  ir.iferic  and  death  before  the  throne  of  grace  j 
whereby  the  pride  and  ftubborneflc  of  nature  is  much  aba- 
ted. Say  we  not  of  him,  who  hith  bcenc  once  impleaded 
before  the  tribunall  of  an  earthly  Iudge,as  guilty  of  felony 
or  treafon,  he  hath  no  reafon  to  be  ftouc  ?  W  hat  then  will 
I  the  arraignementof  the  foulc  worke,whcn  a  man  fhall  be 
drawne  to  acknowleige  before  God,  that  he  hathdefer- 
vcd  to  be  caft  into  hell,  for  liis  manifold  oftences  and 
tranfgreJnflons  againfl:  God. 

Secondly,  Ithringeth  forth  awefulncfle,rcvcrcnce  and 
fcare.    The   righteotu  alfo  fjaU  fee  and  feare.      As  the! 
Childequaketh,  when  he  heareth  that  his  Father  is  angry  i 
with,  or  doth  corre<5l  a  fervant :  fo  the  heart  and  body  of  | 
the  faithfull  tr€mblc,as  oft  as  they  confider  the  feverity  of 
Gods  wrath  againfl:  the  wicked  and  ungodly,    u^hen  T 
heard,  my  beliy  trembled^  my  lips  cjmvered  at  the  voyce :  rot» 
tenneffe  entred  into  my  bones ^  and  I  trembled  tn  myfelfe,that 
I  might  refl  in  the  day  of  trouble  :  That  i?,   when  the 
fameof  thy  divine  puni(hment  and  judgement  came  to 
mine  eares,   which  thou  haft   decreed  to  inflidl  upon 
thy  people;   my  belly,  that  is,  "my  heart  and  bowels  j 
moved  for  griefe  and  feare.  Thus  T^oah  hearing  oFGods  I 
/uft  wrath  againft  the  finfuU  world,  and  of  his  purpofe , 

to 


425 


Heb,i2'28,js 


Tie  a^s  of  faith 
inrejpc{t«fihe 
Thrcatnings 

I. 


3. 

Pral.5i.<J. 
Ads.j.y. 

Ion. I.I  6. 
lChion.i;.i2 


Hab.j.i^. 


f*  Pro,xo.273 
30. 

l'ral.40.8. 
H:b.ii.7. 


414 


Dsat.ij.:!, 

Ier.10.7. 
Pfal.76.7. 


Thefaithfult  are  hound jond it  is  khovifuU 


Phil.  1. 1  2. 
Mat. 10.18. 
Lak.i2.4,f. 


zCor.f.iOjH 
Pral.90.11. 

4. 


to  overthrow  alUivingfleOi  by  water,  was  moved  with 
great  fcare  and  reverence  at  this  ftrangc,  dreadfull  and 
mighty  work  of  God;  and  from  the  view  of  this  his  great 
and  jult  judgcment,hi8  faith  made  him  arifeto  a  more  ear- 
ncft  confideration  of  the  glorious  Majefty  of  the  Almigh- 
ty.   And  this  is  the  cffed  of  judgement  executed  by  men 
according  to  the  direction  of-  Gods  word.  zAnd  all  Ifracl 
p^aU  heare  andfeare^^ndfitall  doe  no  tmre  attyfach  wiekednes. 
True  faith  then  worketh  an  holy  fearc  and  reverent  awe 
of  God  in  rcfpeft  of  his  judgements,  fvho  would  not  fearc  j 
thee^O  King  ofnatiotts  ?  for  to  thee  doth  it  appertaine.ThoUy 
even  thou  art  to  befeared^  and  who  may  fl  and  in  thy  fight 
when  once  thou  art  atigry  ?  ! 

The  godly  mans  aflurance  of  Gods  favour  will  {land  ; 
well  with  reverence  of  his  Majefty,and  feare  of  tcmporall  | 
afflidions,  fpiritualldefertions,  and  the  torments  of  hell, ! 
not  as  an  evill  he  fhall  fall  into,  but  which  he  fhall  efcape } 
by  the  conftant  ftudy  and  praftife  of  hoIinelTc.  For  our  af- ! 
!  furance  to  efcape  damnation,  through  the  death  of  Chrift, ! 
is  no  greater  then  our  care  to  avoid  fin,  which  Icadeth  1 
I  thereunto.    Works  out  y  our  f ah  at  ion  with  feare  and  trem-  \ 
bling,  Feare  not  them  which  kill  the  bo^y^but  are  not  able  to 
kill  the  Joule :  but  rather  feare  him  which  is  able  to  dejlroy 
bothfoule  and  body  in  hell. 

Thirdly,  It  ftirreth  up  continuall  watchfulneffe  to  fliun 
whatfoever  might  breed  danger,or  procure  Gods  difplea. 
fure.  When  fleepineflc  bcginneth  to  come  upon  us,  faith 
joggeth  our  elbow,  and  telleth  the  Lord  is  at  h  ;nd  with  a 
whip  to  awaken  us.  The  approach  of  perill  apprehended 
willrowfe  up  the  fluggard  to  looke  about  him.  Faith  alfo 
teacheth  fo  to  acknowledge  the  anger  of  God,  as  that  it 
draweth  the  heart  above  al  things  to  take  heed  not  to  pro- 
voke him  by  carelefneffe  ^  fecurity  .w^^o  knoweth  thepow^ 
er  of  thy  anger  ?  Sven  according  to  thy  feare, io  is  thy  wrath. 
Fourthly,  The  threatnings,  mingled  with  faith,  caufc 
forrowfuU  melting  or  relenting  of  heart  for  fin  commit- 
ted. When  the  King  of  Nineveh  believed  the  preaching  of 

lonah. 


for  them,to  believe  the  threatnings. 


Ionah,th2Lt  within  forty  daics  that  great  City  (liould  bedc 
ftroyedjbc  rofe  from  his  thronc.puc  on  fackcloth,and  pro. 
claimed  a  Faft  unto  the  Lord.  And  when  the  Lord  teftified 
his  difpleafurc  againft  the  Jfraeiites  by  lending  thuijdcr 
and  lightning  in  Wheatc  Harvcft,  all  the  people  feared 
greatly,  and /<«rW«»fo  Samuel,  T^rayftr  thy  fervam sumo 
the  Lord  thy  God^  that  voe  die  not -^  for  tve  have  added  unto  aR 
eurftns^thU  ev'iH^  to  oike  w  a  King-  Now  the  threatnings 
beIieved,work  the  fame  cfi-c(fV,that  the  judgements  leenc. 
When  lefiah  heard  what  the  Lord  fpake  ^gzmiklcrufalem, 
and  againft  the  inhabitants  of  that  place,  hit  heart  was  j 
tender ^  and  he  humbled  himfelfe  before  the  Lord. 

Fiftly,when  we  fee  by  faith  from  what  miferics  wc  arc 
delivered  of  the  free  grace  and  mercy  of  God,  our  hearts 
arc  enlarged  in  praifc  and  thankfgiving.  In  diftreffe  faith 
I  powreth  out  fupplicationsjwhen  the  calamity  is  over-paft 
it  fetteth  forth  the  goodneffc  of  the  Lord,  and  fingeth  of 
his  glory.    When  the  Ifraelites  were  in  fafcty  on  the 
flioarc,  looking  backc  upon  the  danger  efcaped,  when 
they  pafTed  through  the  red  Sea,  they  make  a  joyfull  noife 
to  the  God  of  their  falvation :  their  fongs  are  anfwcrablc 
to  their  fore-conceived  feare.    And  fo  when  the  Lord 
brought  back  the  captivity  oiBabyUn^thcir  mouthes  were 
filled  with  Iaughter,and  their  tongues  with  joy.    The  due 
confideration  of  our  defcrts,  manifcft  by  the  threatnings 
contained  in  the  Word  of  God,  doth  marvelloufly  affedl 
the  heart  with  defire  to  publifh  and  fpread  abroad  the  lo- 
ving kindnefl'c  of  the  Lord,when  by  faith  in  Chrift  we  fee 
our  fclvestobc  (ct  free  from  the  drcadfbll  curfes  of  the 
Law,  and  mercifully  faved  from  the  righteous  j'udgcment 
ofourfinncs. 

By  this  which  hath  beene  faid  ,  it  is  manifcft,  that  this 
life  of  faith  is  moft  excellent  and  comfortablcjand  by  good 
proofe  and  experience  we  fhould  be  able  to  lay  fo,  if  wc 
would  be  perfwaded,  but  to  take  a  taftc  of  the  benefit  and 
fweetncffe  that  it  bringeth.  For  by  this  faith  wc  are  di- 
rcfted  to  feekc  and  follow  after  Chrift jtill  wc  come  to  be 

F  f  affured. 


4^5 


f^  J 


I«na$.3.6,7,8. 


1  Sam 

I3.XS, 

19. 

ludg.  z 

IH. 

Exod.if.i^a, 


Pfal.ii^.a. 


42^ 


ThefMthfuEare  hoHnd,Andit  is  hehovcfull 


EpHcf.j. 
iGor.5 


17. 
.19. 


Pfal.1a7.iji 


aflurcd,  that  he  dwcllcth  in  us  as  the  fouticainc  of  life,  and 
that  in  him  we  arc  delivered  From  the  guilt  &  punidiment 
of  all  our  fins :  whereas  othe.  <,\vho  live  not  by  it,  waver, 
are  oft  diftrafled,  and  know  not  where  to  begin  the  foun- 
dation of  that  great  worke.nor  how  to  build  thereon.  By 
this  faith  we  may  come  to  {ound  reft  and  holy  fccurity 
about  our  falvation  fro  time  to  timc,cnjoying  the  comfort 
of  it  ftill  more  and  more  with  incredible  joy  :  whereas 
others,even  the  beft,are  oft  unfetled  and  much  difquieted. 
If  the  Lord  Icade  us  into  the  darkc,  and  exercife  us  with 
manifold  afflidioHS  and  temptations,  by  this  faith  we  arc 
enabled  to  hold  him  by  the  hand,  to  caft  our  felves  upon 
the  promifes  of  grace,&  fo  relying  upon  his  power ,faith- 
fulnefle  and  mercy ,to  promife  lafety  unto  our  felves  above 
likeli-hood  and  appearance  j  yea,  when  we  f  eele  the  con- 
trary.Thc  rage  of  (in  is  weakened,and  we  haveftrcngth  a- 
gainft  it,  though  not  alwaies  to  prevaile  (which  were  not 
expedient)  yet  at  leaft  to  be  in  combate  with  it,  which  is 
ever  a  good  teftimony  of  our  fafety:for  hereby  wc  prove 
our  felves  to  be  lively  members  of  the  Church  Militant. 
Alfo  by  this  we  are  preferved  againft  fearefiill  fins,&  have 
grace  to  walke  in  newncffe  of  life,and  all  parts  of  it  with 
J  oy  and  chearfulnefle.  If  we  live  by  faith  we  have  delive- 
rance from  many  fharpe  and  bitter  afflidions ;  and  bearc 
thofe, which  we  muft  go  under,morc  meekly  and  patient- 
ly :  becaufe  it  makes  us  depend  upon  Gods  promifes,  not 
ftinting  him  to  any  fet  time^maner  of  deliverance,or  mea- 
fure  of  afBicfUon.By  it  we  walk  in  our  callings  more  chear- 
fully jhoneftlyjpainefully ;  and  with  leffediftraflionjtoilc, 
and  vexation,  but  with  more  profit,  then  they  that  flow  in 
with  wealth,  and  have  all  fhifts  &  cunning  flight  to  gaine 
by. For  whiles  we  fee  God  ever  going  be&re  us  in  all  our 
earthly  dealings  and  anions  (as  we  fliould  more  lookc  to 
j  itjthat  wc  find  it  fo,tb€n  to  our  greateft  profits  &  weighti- 
I  eft  dealings)  this  faith  fliall  uphold  us  in  the  quieteft  eftate 
and  moft  fwcet  peace,  fuch  as  all  the  carnall  wifedomc  of 
man  (hall  never  finde  nor  enjoy.  This  faith  tcacheth  us  ta 

» . vm 


for  them, to  believe  the  threatnirt^s. 


427 


rfai. 


pray  at  all  times  as  our  ncccflities  require,  with  fcivency 
and  confidcnccj  even  in  the  depth  of  af fiidionSjWhcn  the 
grave  h  ready  to  fwoUow  us  up,and  fliut  her  mouth  upon 
usjit  cnableth  to  looke  unto  the  Lord,  and  with  flrong  ar- 
guments to  implore  his  aid.  O  LordGodcfmyfahatiott,  I 
have  cried  day  and  night  before  thee,  for  mj  foule  ii  full  of 
troubles,  andmy  life  draweth  nigh  unto  the  grave.      Out  of  I  ^^'"^1. 150.1,2. 
the  deaths  have  I  cried  unto  thee,   O  Lord  :    Lord  heart  vtj 
voice. My  Ipirit  rvithtn  me  ii  over'-vehelmei^mf  heart  rvithin 
meUdefoUte,     I  ftretch forth  my  hands  unto  thee,  myfoule    Pfal.145,^  c, 
thirfiethfor  thee  as  a  thirfiy  iand.O  remember  not  againfh  w    Ffal  79.8. ' 
fofmer  inicjtiitieSy  let  thy  tender  mercies  jpeedilj  prevent  ut : 
for  T»e  are  brought  very  low.  If  the  afflidion  be  very  grie- 
vous-&  of  long  continuance,faith  doth  neither  quailc,nor 
ccafe  to  feeke  helpe;but  looketh  up  to  the  Lord,expe<4ing 
falvatioH  'm  due  time  to  be  revealed.  O  god,  why  haft-  thou 
cafi  Hi  ojffor  ever  f  Whj  doth  thine  anger  fmoake  againft  the 
Jheepe  of  thy  pafiure?  Remember  thy  ^ongreaationyXrhieh  thou 
hafi  furchafed  of  eld^the  rod  of  thine  inhfritanceywhich  thou 
haft  redeemed.! am  poore  andforroypfnUJet  thyfalvation,0 
Qod,  fet  me  up  on  high  I  for  *  God  is  the  ftrength  of  his 
people,  *  who  will  bring  them  againe  from  the  depths  of 
the  Sea.  The  life  of  faith  (hall  end  in  joy  and  comfort.  He 
that  trufteth  in  the  Lord  fliall  rejoyce  in  his  holy  Name.  / 
Mm  a  wonder  unto  manyjbtit  thou  art  my  flrong  refuge. Let  my 
mouth  be  filled  with  thy  praife^andwith  thy  honour  all  the  day. 
Our  heart  JJjaU  rejoyce  in  him^  becaufe  we  have  trufted  in  hts 
holy  Name,  Loe^tkis  is  our  God,we  have  waited  for  him, and 
he  will f Ave  us'.this  ii  theLord^we  have  waited  for  him,we  will 
be  gUd^andre Joyce  in  hisfalvation  The  expedation  of  them 
that  hope  in  the  Lord,  (hall  not  be  fruftrated,  therefore 
they  fhall  re/oyce  in  him,  and  found  forth  his  praifes. 

Hee  that  hath  learned  to  live  by  faith,  (hall  alfo  die  in 
hkh  Allthefe  died  in  or  according  to  the  faith. If  vjc  know 
howtowalke  with  God  by  faith,  as  Henoch  didt  all  the 
daies  of  our  lifejamidfl  the  manifold  temptations  &  chan- 
ges that  wc  meet  withall  in  this  world ;  we  fliall  the  bct- 

pfa  ter 


74  iji- 


Pfal.^p.if. 
*Vcrfc.»z. 


&.tf, 


y.30. 


Hcb.M.ij. 


42  8      I  Thefaithfull  are  bomdjondit  is  behovefuU 

ter  encounter  with  deach,  when  the  agonies  thereof  be 
upon  uj.  Death  is  many  wayes  terrible,  and  the  affaults 
ofSathan  at  that  time  are  ulu illy  niDfi;  ftrong,as  being  his 
lad :  but  he  that  hath  taken  out  this  ieflfon,  To  live  by 
faich,  (hall  eafily  qupnch  the  ficrie  darts  of  the  Divell, 
manfully  conquer  this  ftrong  enemy  ;  renew  his  repen- 
tance, and  confidence  in  Gods  mercy  upon  the  fight  of  fin; 
and  willingly  refigne  himfclfe  into  the  hands  of  God. 
This  is  the  ordinary  courle,  live  in  faith,  and  die  inTaith, 
Live  holily,  and  die  blefledly.  Therefore  let  us  leave  late 
repentance  to  them  that  thinkc  it  but  a  fport  to  venture  a 
foule,  and  take  that  courfe  that  is  fure  to  fpeed.  To  fay  no 
more,it  is  exceeding  dangerous  to  put  of  repentance  h-om 
day  to  day,though  fome  few  have  obtained  mercy  at  their 
latter  end  :  But  this  is  fure,  he  that  liveth  in  faith,  {hall 
die  in  faith,  and  live  in  glory  for  evermore. 


FIS^IS, 


ALPHABETICA  LL 

TABLE  OF  THE  PRINCIPAL! 

Matters  contained  in 

this  Bookc. 


Acteptable. 


O  nftion  is  truly  ac- 
cent able,  unleflc  it 
be  quickened  and 


par:  |,  c:  i  o,  pag:  13a,  par:i,c;4, 
pag.i^o. 

God  in  gr«at  mercy  vonchfa- 
fcth  to  his  children  many  excel- 
lent royaltiei  and  priviledgcs  in 
th;s  life,  par;2,c:4,p:2  57,2  j8. 
The  adopted  hare  fonnc-hkc  I 
cnhved   by  faithj  intcreft  and  title  unto  the  crea- 
pait.  i.ca;8.  pag.   tares  in  Chrift,  par.2,C'8,pa,j6j. 
9<?.c:». I. p;i$4&c;9.pag:57a.        &  c.^^p^.i<i%. 

Sincere  obedience,  though  im-  Ads  oT  faith  that  aiife  from 
pcrfeft,  is  plcafing  iind<wcep*aWc  the  priviledgcs  of  the  adopted, 
unto God^paria.cij.pag'.j 69, J 70   pag. z j9,a6o,&c. 

The  children  of  God  having 

Acctjfe,  th«  promife  both  of  this  life  and 

that  which  is  to  comcjdo  by  faith 

Free  accejfe  to  the  throne  of  rely  upon  his  grace ,   to  receive 

grace  with  boIdncfTe  and  confi-  from   him  whatfoever   may  bee 

dsnce  is  a  priviledgc  accompany-  good  for  them,pag.af9,i6 1,257. 

ing  affiirance  of  our  vcconciliati-       The   fonne'fhip   of   believers 

onwithGod,par/j,c:z,pag:iio,  being  purchafcd  by  Ckrift,  mufl 

an.  needs  be  an  incftimablc  benefit, 

Mopt'm,  pag.i^J. 

To  be  the  fon  of  God  by  adop- 

By  faith  wee  are  adopted  to  bee  ti9n,vi  •  greater  dignity  then  to  be 

the  Sonne  of  God,  and  fo  have  Monarch  ofthe  whole  world,  pa. 

title  to  the  heavenly  inheritance,  a6  jji^^.a more  honourable  con- 

F  f  ;  dition 


An  AlpbabeticaflTdble, 


djtion  then  that  of  Adam  m  in- 
noccncy,  pa.266. 

The  proinifc  q(  adoption  and  c- 
tcinall  inheritance  is  freely  offe- 
red, and  freely  given  to  them  that 
bes  moft  unworthy  in  their  ownc 
cyeSjpagidj,  to  them  that  were 
fervants  of  (inne,(laves  to  Sathan 
children  ofwrath,  pa.  164^270.  to 
fuch  as  arc  moft  contemptible  ia 
the  worldjpa.a^g. 

Believers  may  know  and  be  af- 
C[itcd  ol  thdvownt adoptioftj  pa. 

Every  Believer  is  aotaffured  of 
his  adaption,  nor  doth  any  in  this 
life  enjoy  perfect  aiTurance  with- 
out doubtings,  pa.ti7.  See  cer- 
tainty or  allWance  of  Salvation. 

Meanes  to  Itirre  up  faith  in  af- 
furance  of  the  priviledges  of  the 
adoptedi  pa.z6 1,  i6zji6.»,&c. 

I  ^•''^tli  put  for  jiffance  of  Heart 
embracmg  the  Word  as  good,  par. 
i^c.i,pa,j,&  c.io,pa  137. 

^JJiance  how  diflinqnifhed , 
ibid. 

Juftifying  faith  is  an  affance  or 
confidence,  par.i,cap  ^,pag.24 

Faith  is  an  <^hkci\xio\xs  affiance , 
par.  I ,  cap.  5 ,  pa,^.  3 1 ,  par.»,  cap.o. 
pag.j7i.&cap  10.pag.3f7. 

Affiance  muft  bcc  well  rooted 
and  kindly  planted,  par.i^cap.j. 
P^g-343  &  cap,4,  pag.49.&  cap  8. 
pag-ioi.  found  and  pcrmasent, 
P3r.i,cap.3,pag.34.. 

_^Ovei.r.uhng,pag.3y.&cap.io 

Sjgnes  of  lively,  found,  well- 
rooted  affiance y\n\\tzz  there  is  but 
fmail  .flurance  offaivation,  par. 
i^casio,pa.  14^, 

"■  '"""•"i'er<*i.*"»sw«>w.»»» 


^§ieiions. 

AjfliUms  ^vt  not  more  ordina- 
ric  then  burdenfo  ne  and  heavy  to 
be  borne,  par.  2,ca.7,pa,  j  1 1. 

Outward  ajjit^hns  often  occa. 
(ions  of  giiev  JUS  temptations, 
p.M,ca.i2,pa.i83,paf  z,c3.7,pa. 

Our  frailtiein  bearing  wf^/fi^i. 
ons  Ihewes  what  need  wc  have  to 
be  ftrcngthened  and  incouiaged, 
that  they  hinder  us  not  in  our 
Chriiiian  courfe,  P'a.j  11,3 1». 

Great  ^ffiiiftons ,  of  diverfe 
kinds,of  long  continuance,are  no 
more  then  neceflary  toocpell  our 
corruptions,  par  2,  ca.7,  pa.356, 

Satan  and  wicked  men  cannot 
fet  the  time,  or  meafure  the  quan- 
titie  of  fuch  iruferies,  whcrof  they 
are  inftrumcnts  to  the  godly,  pa. 

The  godly  themfclves  are  not 
to  appoint  the  time  or  meafure  of 
their  chaftifements,  pa,3»?,J38. 

Gods  hand  muft  bee  ackr««w- 
l*^dged  in  all  our  affiiCiiom  whofo- 
cver  bee  the  inftiument,  pa.  j20, 
^  J  8.  This  is  a  ground  of  Humi- 
liation, pa.  3  20.  &  jai.  of  pa- 
tience, pa.?  20.  &  521,  3„,  &c. 
of  profit  and  comfort  by  that  wee 
fuffer,  pa.32o,3»i.32i,&e.  338, 
339- 

■^ffliftionf, though,  bitter  for  the 
prcfcnr,are meanes  to  doe.usgood  ; 
many  d  aies  after,  pa .  j  2  4. 

Affiiffions  in  themfclves.  are 
huitfuli,  but  they  are  clianged  in 
and  by  Chrift,  and  made  fcrvicea- 
ble  for  our  good,  pa.  3 14,}  ij. 

The  Lord  our  moft  mcrcfull 
and  lo\ing  Father,  hath  plenti- 
fully %nificJ,that  he  will  cortca. 

his 


jiH  AlfhuhticdUTAhU, 


his  children  for  their  good  ,  and 
gracioufly  promifcd  that  hec  will 
be  with  them  in,and  deliver  them 
out  of  their  ad  verities,   pa.  i|», 

God  corrcdcth  in  great  wife- 
dome,  pa.ji2, 313,^14,538,  in 
mcafmc,  pa  J  i»,  ijS,  323,334, 
3  3  8.  for  a  moment,  pa  3  i  2,3 13. 
in  lov'G  and  tcndcrncfle,  pa.  313, 
323,51^.  to  prove  them,  pa.3J3. 
to  purge  and  refine  tlicni,  pa.  j  1 3, 
314,323.  to  confirme  grace,  pa, 
314,323.  andtofave  them  at  the 
end,pa.3i4 

God  corrcds  his  children  that 
they  might  know  thcmfclvcs, 
their  frailties  and  graces,  pa.  3  13, 
5  I  f  .rnoft  perfedly  iindci  ftanding 
th«ii'  need,  theii  ftrength,  and  the 
working  of  his  ownc  potion,  pa. 

God  hath  promifcd  to  deliver 
his  ciiildren  out  of  tt:ouble,pa.3r4, 
J  15,326.  Is  tender  Over  them  in 
trouble,  pa  314,31$.  and  prefcnt 
for  their  hclpc,  p.i.3if . 

Itrs  neciilaryto  Icarnc  tolive 
by  faith  totuhmg  thefe  promifes 
intiracofdi^rfl/fl«.p.}i(y,}l7,&c. 

j4j^iSt9ns  profit  not  where 
faith  IS  wanting,  pa.  310. 

The  godly  are  allowed  to  live 
by  faith  .n  d/j?t5f0nf,pa.3  18,3  i  j, 

Faith  fweetens  affliiiionfy  fup- 
porrcth  under  them,  tcacheth  to 
profit  by  thcm,&c.  pjr.i,ca.io, 
pa.i3  3,par.2,c.i.i,pa.  196.  &  ca. 
4,p3.zj  1,258.  &  ca.io, pa.  594, 

Inwardly  chearcs  the  heart,par. 
a,  ca.4,  pa.26i,  &  ca.?,  pa.iSo. 
and  .iiTures  oi  helpc  in  trouble, 
trujmphir»g  before  the  tiftcry, 
par.8,c3,7,pa.3  3s'. 


The  aa$  of  faith  in  rcfpcft  of 
the  promifes  offupport  and  com- 
fort in  affliaion^  p.3ao,jii,&c. 

Wee  muft  live  by  faith  in  the 
he-1  vieft  and  longeft  affliffms.  pa. 

In  fuch  faith  is  moft  cxcrcifed, 
pa.  3  3  6. 

In  foch  there  is  moft  need  of 
faith,  becaufe  then  Satan  is  moft 
bnfic  to  tcmptjibid. 

God  doth  lo\'e  tenderly,  when 
hec  doth  corrcft  fevercly,'  par.  i, 
ca.ii,  pa'i83. 

The  Lords  ch.iftifcmcnts  arc 
but  purgative  medicines  to  pre- 
vent or  cure  fome  fpirituall  dif- 
eafe,ibid. 

Our  conformitic  with  Chriflian 
affliffionry  and  his  partner- fhip 
with  us  tliercin,  fliould  make  us 
Willing  to  bcare  thcm^  part,  ca* 
7,pa.3a6, 

Faith  in  God  is  the  onely  ftay 
and  fuppor;  of  the  hcaitin  trou- 
ble  and  afflii^ion ,  fpecially  that 
whrcbis  moft  burdenfome,p.5i6. 
Faith  turncth  crcfles  into  ad- 
v.antages,par.2,ca  io,pa.3  9j. 

Faith  raifcth  the  heart  to  ex- 
pcifl  profit  and  comfort  by  every 
(i$iciiof), :\nfi  the  greateft  comfort 
and  profit  by  tlie  greateft  affiCfiort, 
par.  2,  ca.7,  pa.3^27,  3J0,  3J1, 

The  afts  of  faith  in  time  of 
greateft  affiaionf,p,^^6.i  5  7,&c. 

How  it  comes  topaife  that  in 
a^iQ'tons  faith  feemes  to  bee  moft 
weake,  and  corruption  moil  ftir- 

nng,t)a.34i,542j3^?- 

Helpes  to  ftirrc  up  faith  in  deep 

affiiOionii  when  all  mcanes  failc, 
p354?>M4.&c. 

Faith  fctnng  before  us  the  in- 
finite recompence  of  reward,  ma' 
Ff4  kcrh 


Ah  A/pbAhticaUTdhle, 


keth  our  affiiithm  fccmc  light    coafidcncCjpar.i,cap.i,pag.j. 

and   momentamc  ,      pag.  jz6,        There  is  a  double  ajfent,  one 

317.  from  reafon,  the  other  fromau- 

By   faith  die   godly   heart  is    thority,pag.i6. 

dra wne  to  ule  all  lavyfull  meanes       Juftifying faith  isan affentj  pag. 

of  helpc  in  diftrcfle,  but  reftcth     16,18,19. 

on  Gods  promifes,   not  on  the        The  fi^nrwhicb  faith  gives  to 

probabilitie    ef  the   thing   pro-    the  word  is  abfolute  and  iinlimi- 

mifed,  pag.J3i.&cap.i,pag.i«i,   ted, pag.t 7,21. 

202.  Faith  isafirine4^«/',  pag-io, 

The  dcpcndance  on  the  promi-    &  cap.5,pag.6©. 

fes  is  abfohitc,  without  limitation        How  faith  is  an  evident  aj^ent, 
of  time,  mcafurc  of  affli^io)ty  or    pag.z:. 

manner  of  dcliveraHce,  and  that        Faith  is  in  feme  fori  an  a^ent 

when  all  nacanesfaile,  yea  againft    difcurfive,  pag.ag, 

all  things  that  may  fecmc  to  op-        In  living  by  faith  one  a6t  is  to 

pefc,  pag.jjijjp.  a^tttun^o  the whple  word,  par. 

For  fiippart  in  this  cafe  faith    a, cap.  i, pag. 201. 
tiirneth  it  felfe   to  meditate  on        Ajfeut   unto    the    articles  of 

'Gods  truth,  power,  wifdomCjtcn-  Chnftian  faith  as  true  and  good, 
dcr  compaflions  ;  hisufuall  man-  whiles  conlidercd  oncly  inthem- 
ner  of  dealing  j  and  our  ownc  ex-  fel  ves,  without  oppofition  of  fuch 
perience  :  And  directs  us  to  ac-  matters  as  bee  much  valued,  is 
cufc and  checkc  oiirfcivesfor  our  fhallow  andunfound,  par.ijCap, 
unbelief e,  and  to  incite  and  call  4,p«g.ji. 
upon  our  foulesmore  confidently 
to  wait  and  tiufl  upon  the  Lord^  B 


Mtnight^pwvtu 


The  Almghty  pother  of  God 
often  alledgeth  to  confirme  the 
weake  and  wavering  heart,  par.  i , 
cap.6,pag.73. 

Theteltimonies  of  Gods  pow- 
er, mercy  and  truth  arc  f«  often 
repeated  in  Scripture ,  that  wee 
I  might  have  them  ever  before  us, 
;  to  uphold'  us  againfl  our  doub- 
'  tings  and  fcares,    par.  r,  cap.  11, 
P3g-lf4. 


Baptifme, 

BAptiftM  is  a  ieale  of  the  Cove- 
nant betwixt  Ood  and  us,  par. 
I,cap.ii,pag.4io. 

Baptifme  is  a  feale  of  our  rege- 
neration, pag.4 1 1,  and  pardoa  of 
o«r  finnes,ibid. 

It  is  a  pledge  of  the  vertuc  of 
Chrifts death,  and  our  fcllowfliip 
therein, ibid. 

Of  the  vcrtiie  ofChrifts  rcfur- 
reftion,and  our  communion  with 
him  therein, ibid. 

Of  ow  adoption  in  Chrift,  pag. 


41 X. 
Of  our  communion  with  all  the 
Faitk  put  for  »ffe>tt  without    lively  members  of  Chrift  Jefus, 

ibid. 


j4n  AlphahtkallTable^ 


ibid,  and  that  God  will  provide  To  belic'Vey  is  to  truft  in  the 
for  at  in  this  life,  laife  up  our  bo-  Word  of  God  as  fure  and  ftable 
dies  unto  life  at  the  day  of  judge-   pag  24.  ' 

mcnt,  and  beftow  u^on  us  that  e-       Truft  expounded  by  hliefe  pa. 
vcrlafting  Kingdome  which  hec    *^«  ' 

hath  prepared^  pag.4 1 2,41 3,4 14.  To  helin'e,  is  to  Icane  upon,or 
Baptifme  ulCo  is  a  fpairc  to  f c-  "icIfe,or  adhere  unto,  paa.  2  y  2.J. 
pentance  and  mortification,  pag.  To  beliezt  on  Chnft  is  to  rc- 
4 1 4.  a  provocation  unto  faith,  "'vehim^pag.ij.croc  or  comeun- 
and  a  pledge  thereof,  pag.4 1  J.  an  tohi»j,ibid. 
incitement  unto  new  obedience,  To  believe  theMeflias,  is  not 
and  a  pUdgc  thereof,  ibid.  A  CQcIy  toknow,  buttohaycanaf. 
pledge  and  pawnc  oflovcandu-  fiance  in  him,  pag  2 1, 
nity,  p3g.4 1 6.  To  believe,  is  not  onely  to  give 

By  lingular  appropriation  it  credence  to  VThat  the  Scrtptarc 
reprcfenteth  and  confirmeth  our  faith,  hut  to  embrace  what  is  faid 
engrafting  into  Chrift,  pag.4 1 1,     with  intire  adherence  of  foulc. 

For  figntficati«n,forcc,  ufc  and  pag.  j  x. 
fruit  it  continueth  the  whole  To  believe  ChtiR  dad  SCriCeiij 
courfc  of  a  mans  life,  pag.  4 1  o.  i*  not  barely  to  believe  the  hiftory 
By  faith  we  are  to  make  ufc  of  of  his  death,  but  the  fruits  and  bc- 
Baptifmc  all  the  dayes  of  our  life,  ncfits  thereof,  and  that  with  affi- 
pag.  4 1  o.  ancc,pai-.  i,cap.6,pag.7  j. 

How  Parents  Hiould  in  faith       .BWrV/e  in  the  rich  mercy  of  God 


prefent  their  children  unto  Bap- 
/i/»JC,pag.407,4o8. 


framcth  the  Image  of  God  in  our 
hearts,  and  imprinteth  the  ycrtiics 
e>f  Chriftj  death  upon  the  foule 
par,  i,cap,ff,pag.7i. 

Beliefe  in  Chiift  is  abfolutely 
neceflary  t©  remifiion  of  finncs  m 
all  them  that  bee  of  age  and  diC- 


Bclicve  tc  Believer, 

Faith  put  for  Beliefe ,  par.  i,cap. 

i^pag-3- 

Believe Gidy^nd  Believe ia Go Jj  crction,  par.i,  C3p.8,pag,96.  & 
what  the  phrafcs  import,  par.  1.  par.r,cap.xo,pag.i4«. 
cap.ijpag.4,j.&cap.4,p3g»49.  They  believe  not  unto  righte. 

Believe  in  doth  fometimcsim-  oufncfla  who  turne  their  gifts  to 
port  no  mere  but  Believej  par.  i,   the  fervice  of  their  lufts,  par.  i, 
cap.i,  pag.5.  &cap.9,  pag.  118,  cip.4,  pag.48. 
izg.  Such  as  truly  believe  may  know 

Beliefe  in  the  underftanding  is  they  Wrevc,  par.  i,cap.8,pag.9j. 
the  foundation  of  confidence  in    loi,vo8. 
the  heart,  pag.  f .  Many  that  believe,  cannot  cep 

Beliefe  is  grounded  upon  the  au-  tainly  affirmc  that  rhey  do  believe. 
thorityofthcfpcakcr,  butmaybe  par.i, cap,3,pag  18.&  cap.7,pag 
fuftained  and  fticngthcned  by  o-    84. 

ther  motives  and  inducements,       Encouragements  to  tc//cvCjpar 
pag. If.  i,cap  ii,pag,i5i. 


: 


An  AlfhabetlcaMTAble, 


-*  *=« 


Wee  are  not  more  de(uou$to  takes  dircftion  from  God  in  all 
ie//eve,thcnGodis  thatwefhould  buiincflcs  of  this  life,  par.2jca, 
fodo,  par.i,ca.iz,pa.  i6f.  8,pa.356, 

Chrift  himfelfe  doth  gricioufly 
invue  all  that  bee  poorc  ,    needy,  BUfj/hcmers , 

weaiie,  thirfty,  and  hcav/ laden, 

who -neither  fecle  inward  lap  nor       Blafphemcrs  are  not  to  berca- 
outvrard  fruit   of  grace  to  come  fonedvvitb,  par.»,  ea.^,  pa.ag^, 
untohim,  par. i,  ca.io,  pa.  i  ji,    ijy. 
155. &  ca.i2,pa.i76,i90,i^i,& 
par- 2,ca.2,pa  25  i,ij».  Tm^draHoi earthly  hlcjfuigs. 

The  Lord  hath  ftraitly  char- 
ged and  commanded  us  to  believe       Earthly  hUjJing!  are  neccffarie 
in  him,  pa.  if  i,  for  the  maintenance  of  this  Iifsj 

By  htlkvingnz't  glorifieOod  par.?,ca.8,pa.547, 
both  in  his  triithjpower,wirdomc^       The  Lord   by  coycnmt  hath 
love,  grace  and  mercy,  pa,  I  J  J,        promifed   to  fiuniOi  his  people 
If  men  confidcr  fcrioufly  what  with  all  needful!  blcflingspertai- 
rare/urpafling,  precisus  things  be   ning  to  this  life,  that  being  treed  j 
piomifed  to  them  that  comeun.   from   cares  about   them,   they 
to  Jefus  CliTift,  what  IhiU  with-  might,  witii  greater  heciomCj  at-  j 
hold  them  fro-.n  believing  f  pa.  tend  upon  hisfcrviccj  par.i,ca.8, 
ijf.  p3.i47,jfj. 

The  ftrait  charge  of  the  Lord  In  fpcciall  the  Lord  proraifcth 
hath  la'jd  upon  us  to  belie<ve,  and  length  of  dayes,  health,  ftrength, 
diflike  of  our  wcakencfle  is  a  ma-  w-caltisi,  fayouD,  peacCj  joy,  good 
niteft  aigumcnt  of  his  bounty  lucceircjfafcty,  good  n3me,and  all 
and  goodwill,  par,  i,  ca.i.-i,  pa;  thcfe  not  onely  to  the  righteous 
168.  thcmfelves,   but  to  their  children 

The  feverall  ftatcs  of  true  Be  and  pofterity,  pa.?  48,349,3^0. 

//e-yerr,  par.ljCa.Sjpa.p^jpf.  To  wicked  men  God  vouch- 

E/ery  Believer  hath  a  proper,   fafes  outward  things  of  common 

{ingul3r,finccrc,individu.ill  faith,   bounty,  to  his  children  they  are 

par.ijca.io, pa.140.  gifts  of  love  and  fpcciall  good- 

Ordinarily  believers  are  wcake  will,  par.2,ca.4,pa.i6o. 
at  their  firft  conycrfion ;  but  foma       Earthly  blejfing/  are  fome  fmall 
are   privilcdged   above    others,  pittance  of  our  childsportJon,p3r. 
par.i,ca.iOjp3.i4y,  x,  ca.  4.  pa.  i^y.    &  ca.  8,  pa. 

The  ftrong  believer  doth  fome-  1 67. 
times  fhrinkc  when  the  weake       The  worth  of  Earthly  bleffin^s 
ft^ds  faft,  pa.  I  JO.  is  grcatjCpccially  when  they  be  gi. 

Thcttronglre/jcxfermuftnotbc  ven  in  love  and  mercy,  asgiftsof 
carelcflejuor  the  weake  difmayed,  the  Covenant,  par.  1,  ca.  5,  pa. 
.ia.:^o,i<ri.  ^3.&par.2,ca.8,pa.367. 

The  believer  confults  what  is      It  is  neccflary  we  fliould  believe 
juft,  not  whatisgainefuU;  and   thcfepromifcs,  pa  jjOjjjij&c.    I 

The' 


An  Alpha&eticaliTah/e. 


CaUlng, 

IT  is  the  ordinance  of  God  that 
aien  f].ould  laboure in fomtho- 


Thc  godly  are  allowed  to  live 
by  faith  touching  thcfe  ttm^araU 
promifes^pag.gf  2. 

The  relation  which  is  betwixt 
God  and  his  people  fhould  en- 
courage them  to  reft  upon  him 
ioTzarthly  gocd  things,  pag.j  f 4, 

This  gift  the  Lord  gives  to  the  neli  caUin^^p^r.  2,cap.  i  c,p3g,^8«. 
man  whom  hce  doth  approve,  to  God  hatli  promilcd  toprotca 
gather  and  iilc  earthly  bkji^gi  ^"'i  ^IcQc  them  tliat  doc  the 
with  delight  and  comfort,  fo  that  wcrkcs  of  their  calling  with  dili- 
his  ftue  IS  comfortable,  though  gence,ibid. 
his  rcvenewcs  be  fmall^pag.j  5  ^.  Our  calling  muft  be  honcft^that 
The  patient  expedation  of  tlic  '«>  fcrviceabie  to  Church,  Com- 
Saints  hath  confirmed  this,  that  "^o"  wealth,  or  private  farailis, 
Godwin  not  bee  wanting  to  liis 
children  in  things  of  this  life, 
ibid. 

Faith  receivcth  the  free  and 
gracious  promifesof  God  concer- 
ning the  IflcjftngS9£this  life,  par, 
Ijcai^pag.dj. 

Behefe  in  tlicfe  promifes  bring- 
cth  forth  contentment,  incoura- 
gcth  to  diligence,  quickencth  in 
advcrfities,&c.ibid. 

By  faith  the  temporal/  gifts  of 
God  are  Iweetncd  andfinftificd 


pag.5S9. 

If  taith  doe  not  quicken,  fcafon 
and  guide  the  workes  of  our  cal- 
lirif  ^^^y  ■'"^*  ^^'*^  ^"*^  carnall  as 
they  come  fromus,ibid. 

The  foveraigne  remedy  agtinft 
the  evils  which  weara  apt  to  run 
into  in  the  labours  of  our  calling, 
is  a  lively  faith ,pag.  j  8  8. 

Faith  laboureth  confcionsbly 
in  the  daticsof  an  hontdcallinpy 
yet  without  covetoufiicfie  or  di. 
drafting  care,  par,  1.  cap  lo.  pag, 
untous,par.i,cap.io,pag.i3i,&  i54jpar-*,"Pj8,pag.3y7. 
par.z,cap.8,pag,3?2.  The  afis  of  faith  in  refpeft  of 

It  receiveth  eartb!y  ikjfingi  as  ©"r  caUing^  and  the  dutres  bc- 
pledoes  ofGods  fpeciall  favour,  longing  thereunto,  pag  389,320. 
and  Iiftcth  them  up  tofpirituall    &c. 

ufe,  pa"  1J3.  &par.2,C3p.8,pag.       How  wee  may  live  by  faith 

}5j.    °  touching  the  good  fucccffe  of  that 

It  prcferveth  from  the  ufe  of   wotke  whereunto  wee  are  called, 

unl.-.wfull  meancs,  pai.i>  cap.8,   which  we  find  to  be  much  above, 

our  itrength  or  mcanes,  par.j,ca. 
10.  pa.  3  96, 

Diligence  and  chearfulncflcin 
the  duties  af  our  honcft  callings  is 
a  mcaacs  fanftificd  of  God,  to 
procure  freedome  from  Satans 
temptations, par.2,  ca,<2,  pa.Z97, 
2p8;jfca. 

Cah 


pagH^- 

How  the  heart  is  afFeftcd  upon 
fuch  like  confidcrations,ibid. 

The  ads  of  faith  in  refpeft  of 
ttmptraU  promifes  and  blcflings, 
par.a,c.8,pa§.3Jj,3S«j357.&c. 


An  AifhabeticAUTitbie, 


Phyfiesll  ami  of  qualities,  orMo- 
Care.  rail  and  of  fiate  and  condition, 

par.i,cap.7,pag.89. 

ExcefliTC  can  about  earthly  Faithmmdethu8ofourcI;dttge, 
things  is  an  efFed  of  unbelief  c,pa,  even  when  our  mountaine  lec- 
a,cap.ijp3g.i04,2  0  5.  meth  ftrongcft,  P^'-**cap.8jpag. 

Faith  in  the  promifes  of  earthly    361. 
things  doth  kill  covetous  dcfires.       It  doth  f  orcfec  changtt  and  prc- 
diHruftfuU  and  diftrading  wrcj-,    pare  for  themjibid. 
par'i,cap.8,pag.j5o. 

Faith  in  the  pronaifcs  of  ever-  Clritf. 

Lifting    life   doth    eflablife  the 

heart  againft  all  woiidly  cares  Faith  is  the  workcofGod  the 
andfcaies,par.i,cAp.4,pag.2  5i.&  Father  in  lefm  ari^,parM,cap.» 
a^7'  pag'8' 

Faith  in  God  in  timo  of  di-       chrifi  is  both  a  Lord  and  Sayi- 


ftrelle  expcUs  vexations  and  di- 
ftrading  C4rcf ,  par.i^cap.j,  pag. 

Certainty. 

There  is  a  twofold  certaintieiin 

fenfe  and  in  event,  par.  i,  cap.7. 
pag.Ja 


our,par.i,cap.j,pag.3j. 

Cbrifi  is  the  fountainc  of  the 
water  of  life,  par.  i,  cap.  4,  pag. 
41- 

Chrifi  is  the  life  of  the  foule, 
p3r.i,cap.i,pag.i9y. 

Tardon  of  finne  is  proclaintiei^ 
to  mifcrable  finners  in  and 
Things  are  to  us  according  as  through  Chrifi,  par. 2,  cap.z,  pag. 
we  conceive  them,  which  is  not    zn. 


ever  anfwerable  to  the  evidence 
of  the  thing  in  it  felfe,  or  to  the 
certaiaty  in  regard  of  the  event, 
pag.83. 
Things  believed  are  in  them' 


Faith  gocsdircftly  to  Chrifi  for 
pardon,  wee  being  in  our  felyes 
finfuU  andaccurfed.pag.212. 

Chriftis  the  thing  which  faith 
embraccth    to    falvation,     and 


felves  more  certaine  then  things  whom  it  doth  lookc  unto  and  re 

fccne,  but  not  apprehended  by  us  fpcd,  as  it  doth  make  us  righteous 

with  fuch  certaintie  and  affurance,  in  the  fight  of  God,  par.  i,  cap.6, 

pai-.r,cap.8,pag.iio.  pag.74,7f.  &  cap.i»,  pjg.i<7, 

Condufions  Theologicall  are  par.2,cap,2,  pag.iig. 
in  thcmfeWes  as  certaine,zs  are  the       Chrifi  is  the  full  and  adequate 

principles  upon  which  they  arc  objeft  of  beliefe  as  it  juftifieth, 

grounded,  but  alwayes  they  are  par.i,cap.y,  pag.  jf. 
not  fo  infallible  to  our  undetftan-       Chriji  is  the  objeft  of  faith,  not 

dingandconfcicnce,par.i,cap.»,  abftraftly  or  nakedly  con fidcrcd, 

i,cap.6,pag.7r. 

In  Chrijf  Gods  wrath  is  pacified 
towards  us,  par.»,cap.  2,pag.2j4, 


pag.93,110; 

Cha»ge. 
There  is  a  tvtofold  change  j 


Geds  giving  Ciri^  is  an  incou- 
ragement  I 


An  AlfhAheticall  Tabic, 


ragcment  to  believe,  pag.  134. 

C]br//?  is  made  unto  us  of  God 
wifcdomcani  fan(flification ,  af- 
wdl  as  lightcourneffe  and  re- 
demption, par.  2.  cap  3.pag2?8. 

The  confidcration  of  which 
{hould  quicken  to  believe  the 
promite  of  fanaification ,  pJg. 
»48. 

Chrifl  as  he  is  a  juftifier  o?  us 
from  the  guilt  effinne,and  a  fan- 
aifier  of  us  from  the  power  of 
finne  ,  is  the  wedding  garment, 
par.  i.cap.  4.pag.  5i- 

Faith  as  the  pipe  convcycs 
grace  from  Chrift  the  tountainc 
into  the  foule,  par.  a.  cap.  j.  pag. 

143.z44.247. 

They  thatwouWbc  enriched 
with  grace  ,  or  prcfevere  therein, 
rauftbe  knit  to  Chr'tft  by  faith, 
pag.  144.  &  cap.  5,  pag.  z%6. 
See  Grace. 

Chip  hath  purchafed  for  us  life 
cverlafting  no  leffe  then  nghte- 
oufneflc,  par.  a.  cap.  4.  pag.  149. 
The  confidcration  of  which 
fhauld  quicken  to  believe  the 
promifc  of  life.  pag.  z^^. 

Chrift  hath  praid  for  his  people 
that  their  faith  fhould  not  faile, 
psr.  2.  cap.  5.  pag.  z?*-  2.8°. 

Clrift  hath  praid  fsr  perfevc- 
rance  againft  fcparating  evils,  par. 
I.  cap.  »z.pag.  i8o. 

Chrift  IS  the  rock  into  which  wc 
muft  workc  our  felves  by  faith, 
that  no  weight  of  affliftion  may 
overwhclme  us,  par.  a.  cap.  7. 
pag.  J  i9>?30. 

Th-i  fpiiit  of  wifdomc  and 
counfell,of  ftrength  and  courage, 
was  powred  into  Chrift,  of  which 
we  partaking  by  faith,  arc  inablcd 
to  bcare  that  beft,  with   which 


God  is  pleafcd  to  trie  ns,pag.j  j/. 

God  and  Chrift  is  the  oncly  ob- 
jcft  of  true  confidence  and  truft, 
par.  I.  cap.  9.  pag.  117. 

God  having  given  Chrift  to  us, 
will  deny  us  nothing  that  may  be 
for  our  good,  par,  2,  cap.  8.  pag. 

Chrift  Rcvev  rcjefted  any  that 
came  unto  him  in  wcakcncfle , 
deliringto  be  confirmed,  par.  i. 
Cc^p.  12.  pag.  168. 

Church. 

The  authority  of  the  Church 
canaot  be  the  ground  of  faith, 
par,  I.  cap,  9.  pag.  1  zg. 

The  Church  is  fubjeft  to  crrour, 
neither  hath  it  any  truth  irame- 
diatclyorby  divine  infpirations 

ib;d. 

The  authority  of  the  Church  k 

a  thing  create,  ibid, 

Whatfoevcr  credit  the  Cburel 
hath,  it  rcceiveth  the  fame  from 
the  Scriptures,  pag.  1 24. 

The  authority  of  the  Pope, 
whom  they  call  the  Chitrch  virtu- 
all,  is  the  firft  ground  and  laftre- 
folution  of  the  Romanifts  faith, 
pag,  I J  5.  n6. 

It  is  impoflible  the  Churches  in- 
falhblepropofall  fhould  bee  the 
reafon  of  a  Roraanc  Catholikes 
belicfe  of  Scriptures  ,  unlcfTc  it 
were  the  primary  objeft  of  hij 
bcliefe,pag.  117. 

Comhate. 

The  fervants  of  Chrift  are  all 
fouldicrs  ,  and  have  contiHuall 
warre  with  Satan,  par.  a.  cap.  6. 
pae.  zoo. 


An  AlfhdbeticAUTAble, 


Wee  arc  weakc  aad  feeble  to 
vtidiftand  cur  fpirituall  enemies 
potent  and  vigilant  to  affailc,  par; 
»,cap:  J,  pag:  477,  &  cap:  3,  pag; 
240. 

Bee  the  comhatt  never  fo  hot, 
faith  will  not  yecid  to  corruption, 
par:a,cap.6,p3g:j9i., 

Faith  is  the  fhicldof  the  foulc 
to  defend  it  againfi  all  the  fiery 
darts  of  the  Diveli,pag:i3Jji94. 
&"p:7,pag;ji7. 

God  hatli  given  his  fcrvants 
many  encouragements  to  fight 
valiantly ,  and  made  them  many 
promifes  offtrength  andvi(ftory, 
pag; 190,25 1. 

The  craft  of  Satan  is  great  to 
deceive ,his  power  great  to  molelt, 
but  if  we  be  valiant  in  the  Lord, 
wc  ftall  get  the  viftory,pag:x9i. 

To  doubt  and  fcare  bccanfc  we 
are  exercifed  in  fpirituallcowfra/cr, 
is  to  lay  afidc  our  harneffc  be- 
caufe  wc  are  called  forth  to  bat- 
tcll,pao;i9i. 

Faith  is  tke  firft  thing  that  i* 
foimcdin  a  Chriftian,wherewith 
God  furmfbcth  him  when  he  cals 
him  forth  to  the  tncounter,  pag: 

God  calleth  not  forth  his  fer- 
vams  to  thtC0n/ti{f,  antilljhec 
have  enabled  them  to  make*  rc- 
fiftance,f  ar:a,cap;6.pag:  504, 
See  Tentft(Uiont» 

Comfort, 

Faith  may  be  Strong  when  i-vce 
hav'c  no  fenfc  or  feeling  of  mercy 
or  cowftrty  par:  1  ,cap:  1  »,pag-,  177. 

Sometimes  the  godly  walke 
without  eentf^rty  bccaufc  they  put 
it  from  themfclves,pag;  17^. 


Ox'tentimes  God  caufeth  his 
children  to  fceke  long  before 
they  find  coOT/or/-,ibid. 

It  is  Gods  worke  to  gjye  ctm- 
forty  it  is  our  duty  towaitcforit 
int'iewayofobed.enccjibid. 

Comforts  when  they  come  are 
ufually  proportioned  tothemea- 
furc  of  tribulation,  and  mujutude 
of  fervent  prayers  powred  out  be- 
fore the  Lord,  pag;  1 80, 3c  pji-  z 
cap.7,pag:340,34i. 

Commindemenn. 

Whatfoevcr -the  feri^ants  of 
God  did  upon  common  grounds 
and  reafons ,  pertaining,  to  us  no 
Icflc  then  unto  them  j  that  duty 
belongeth  unto  usafwcll  as  unto 
them,and  their  example  is  for  our 
imitation,par;  2,cap.  i,pag:  JO  o. 

Speciall  aommandements  givea 
by  priviledge  to  fome  peculiar 
pcrfons,  belong  not  unto  them 
who  have  received  no  fuch  war- 
rant J  but  if  the  immediate 
ground  be  common,  the  duty  i< 
felfe  r:3chcth  unto  uSjibid. 

The  precepts  of  fm^tfty  and 
holinefle  bind  the  confciencc  to 
obey  God,  as  well  as  the  promifes 
bind  to  tniftinGod,  par:i,cap:f . 
pag:66,p3rri,cap:9,pag;57,. 

'T\\tcorHmandements  of  God  are 
laid  before  believers,  not  as  the 
caufe  for  obtaining  eternall  life, 
but  as  the  way  to  walke  in  unto 
cteinall  life,  aflurcd  unto  us  by 
the  free  promife  and  gift  of  God, 
par:i,cap.8,pag;ii2. 

Faith  unitcth  the  heart  to  the 
promifes,  and  glucth  it  fail  to  the 
commandetaents,  par:  i  ,cap:  7,pag; 
3  IJ3»>J^  P^:»,  cap:  i,  paging, 
l57.&cip;z,p.2Z7.&c;4,p  25^, 
Fath 


jift  Alphx(^ti€aUTah!e, 


JPaith  cleaveth  imro  the  c«w-  all  liisbcncfi:$,par:ijCap:io.paa; 
mandminti  as  juft,  cquall,  honcft    146.&  cap:i  ijpagu^/,  **' 

andgood,inallth:ngJ,aHdat  all  The  incrcalc  of  faith  makes 
times  to  bee  obeyed,  par;  i,cap.'  f ,  our  commmion  ivith  Chrifi  more 
pag:fi5/7.  fvvect  and  comfortable,  pag:  148 

To  the  Icadingofa  Chriftian  i  »    t  » 


Confejfm  of  faith. 

Ta'uh  (if  firme)  bringcth  forth 
Confeftcfi,p^r:i ,  cap;4,  pag:  j  r. 
F4flb  which  bnngcth  forth  fin- 


life,  it  is  necc^ry,  that  by  faith 
we  adhere  and  ftickc  faft  unto  the 
Comniandementfj  p:ir.»,cap:9,pag: 
170. 

Want  of  believing  the/>recf/>/if  — -.ft-....v/iiiiiin- 

is  the  cjufc  why  many  are  kept  cere  cenfefftan  is  coupled  with 
under  of  inordinate  paflions,  pag,  love,  but  confeffuyn  it  felfe  is  an 
3  7  ^  ^^^^  of  faith,  I  bid. 

It  is    ncccffiry  a  Chriftian      -''<«'>*  put  for  unfaincd^r#/f^fji 
lliould  reft  upon  God  for  abilitic  offaithj^iv,  1,  cipi.paz:  ?. 
to  doc  what  he  rcquircth,   pag- 


571,^73.  and  that  hec  will  accept 
then-  willing  (though  wcake)  fer- 
vice,  p3g»j73,S74»  ^^^  obedience. 


Confe/iHoffinne- 


Confeffion  »fjinne  isrepifitcto 
the  obtaiuing  of  pardon  by  faith, 
Commiifl  to  Chrifi.  par;  j,  cap;*,  pag:i  i6,2|j. 

Hew  the  confeffton  of  the  true 
Commin^to  chrifi  is  >■  fpirituall    believer  differs  from  the  tcnipora- 
motion  of  the  heart  and  afFcdli-    ric,  pag:  ii6,M7. 
ons  towards  Chrifi ,  par;  l.cap;j.       The  promifcs  made  to  him  that 
pag-*8.  trulyco»/e^/Jhityj««ef,pag:2i7 

The  receiving  of  Cfcn'/f  is  not      Sinte,  and  our  miferable  cftate 
cncly  acomprehsnfion  of  thcun-    by  rcafon  ofit,  muftbec  lonfeffti 
derftanding,  but  an  embracijig  of  and  bewailed,  that  wee  may  be 
the  heart  and  afledions,  parj  i,   'ievc  the  promifcs  of  luftificati- 
cap;5,pag;a7.  on.par;i,cap:», pag: 216,155,  of 

Wee  put  on  Cfcrt/?  when  by  an    Sandification,  cap:  5,  pag:  341 
affianced  knowledge  and  confc-   24  J".  Of  Adoption  and  the  cvcr- 
qucnt  aftedions  wee  comt  more   ljiftLngInheritance,ca.4,pag:262, 
and  more  to  bee  united  with  him,    j6j.  Of  Perfevcrance,  cap.  j.pag. 
par:  I J  cap;  4,  pag;  J  i.  aSr,  288. 

The  Jtme;,  which  fee  open  the 

CommmiinXfith  Chrifi,  foulc  to  temptation,  mult  be con- 

/f^eijpar:  I, cap:  xi.pag:  171,175. 

By  faith  wee  arc  maried  unto   &c.par:z,cap.6jp.ig: 304,^0^. 

Chrifi^  and  have  c9«»afiaro»  with       In  affliction  and  diftrefla  wee 

him  in  the  death  and  rcfurredion,   muft  tonfeffc  our  ftns  with  hrtrcd 

par:  i,  cap;ie,p3g:i3».  and  godly  forrow,  p3r;2,cap.7, 

A  true  believet,  though  never   pag:  544. 
foweakCjdothpofleffeCfcri/?with       Whenfoevcr  faith   comes    to 

receive' 


Ah  A/phsMcaS  Table  ^ 


receive  the  fcale  of  pardon,  it 
pleads ^uiUiCy  par.i.  cap.  n.pag. 

Conpdence. 


is  ever  fcarefull,  caufeth  unqiuet- 
ncfle  and  impatience  inaffli^ion, 
par.i.cap./.pag.jii, 

ContentatioA, 


Thekinds  of  C'o»^(/g««,  par.i. 
cap.i.pag.4.  Faith  fccth  riches  in  God,  fub- 

Subftancc  put  for  ConfidencCj   mitteth  tohiswifdome,reftcthm 


par.i.cap.j.pag.ip. 


his  love  J    and  fo  maint.iincs 


Confidence  is  it  doth-  embrace    Chdflian  in  fomc  mcafure  ofcon- 
Chrift  with  cettaine  affiance,  is   /e»mc«r, pai-'i.cap.S.pag.jyS.Sc 
the  forme  of  faith;  as  it  beget'    cap  lo.pag,?^*^. 
teth  confidence  of  liberty,  it  is  an       To  live  by  fiith  in  the  abun- 
cffeftoffaithjpag.jo.  dance  of  all  things,  makes  way 

Confidence  in  God  doth   the   for  patience,  contentednejfe,  and 
more  bind  and  oblige  him  (  as  it  found  peace  in  the  depth  of  mife- 
werc)to  doe  us  good,  and  to  deli-   rie^pag.j  60. 
ver  us  from  evill,  par.a.cap./.pag. 
3i9.Tofhowrchisbkflingsplen-  Covenant, 

tifiilly  uponus,cap.8.pag.  J  j  i : 

The  faithfull  have  promifed  The  fe-ucwawf  which  God  hath 
thcmfelvcs  helpe,  and  canfidently  made  with  his  people,  is  an  ever- 
begged  a:d,becaufe  they  trufied  in  lafling  CtfX'e«<««/',par .  i.cap.  j  pag. 
the  Lord, pag.ji^.jao.  272.173. 

Confidence  is  oppofed  to  doubt-       The  Covenant  of  God  made  in 
iiiganddiflruft,  par.i.cap.j.pag.    Chrifl  fhould  encourage  to  be- 
lieve the  piomife  of  pardon,  par, 
2. cap  2.pag.2J4 

Sa unification  is  promiied  in 
ibii  covenant  ofgrace,par.i  cap.  5. 


31- 

Confidence  in  the  flefla  is  an  ef- 
fect of  unbelief  e,  par.2.cap.  i  .pag, 
203.204. 


They  are  accurfcd  who  trufi  in  pag.a  <  8. 

Man,p3r,  i.cap.p.pag.  1 17.  Peifeverance  is  promifed  in  the 

Faith  in  God  in  time  of  di-  C0'uc«a«/ofgi-ace.par,2.cap.j.pag. 

flrcffe  drawes  the  heart  from  car-  272,  -  7j.i8<»  iqo. 

nail  repofe  in  raeanes  and  friends.  To  the  children  of  God  earthly 

and  emangeth  from   the  ufc  of  bleffings  are  gifts  of  the  fove/JdM/, 

unlawfiill  meanes  of  helpe,  par.  2.  part  of  their  childs  portion,and  fo 

cap.j.pag.jai.jap.  received  by  faith,  par.  2.  cap.  4, 

He  will  never  renounce  carnall  pag.2^o.&cap  8  pag.j^j. 

fuppOTts  that  makes  not  God  the  In  the  Covenant  of  grace  God 

ftay   of  his  foule  for   outward  givcth  what  he  requircth,  par,  a, 

things,par.2.cap.8.pag.35i,  cap.3.pag.239;&  cap.9  pag.^6g. 

Confcience-  The  condition  of  the  covenant 

is  promifed  in  the  covenant  it  felfe, 
Guihinefle  of COM/c/Mf e,which  cap,4,pag.27 j. 

It 


Ai$  AlfhMk§tk^  TMt, 


Icisnotthccaafe  of  fulfiiUng 

the  promifc.  pag.  175. 

The  cxternill  betrothing  by 
Covenant  msy  bc.broken,  bat  not 
the  intcrnall .  pag.  17  j .  174, 

The  benefits  prormftd  m  the 
Civtnant  being  copared  amongll 
themf.l  cs  ,  one  is  as  it  were  a 
condition  to  another,  but  they  be 
all  effects  in  refpcCt  of  the  grace 
and  free  favour  of  God  ,  prorni- 
Cng  them  in  civensnt ,  -ind  cer- 
taintly  ccnferring  tiicm  upon 
whom  he  will  pag.  275. 

Courage. 

:.,  Chriftian*  being  fpirituall  foul- 
diets  mull  put  on  Courage,  par.  t. 
cap.  6,  pag  zgj. 

Cowardife  doth  encourage  S» 
un,  courage  daunts  himj  pag.  jjj 
3-97  •  198. 

No  courage  without  faith,  ibid. 
&c«p.  7.  pag.  ji^. 

Faith  maketh  couragiom  and 
hardy  in  the  profeflion  of  the 
Gofpcll,  even  to  tht  lolle  of  goods 
and  lib«rty.  par.  i.  cap.  10.  pag. 

It  puts  into  us  courage  xnA  con- 
ftancy  ,  to  fight  againft  the 
ftrongeft  lulls,  and  fet  upon  the 
pra£lic€ofthe  moll  difficult  du- 
ties, par.  x.  cap.  9.  pag.  382. 

It  eneoura£etb  to  thtmoft  diffi- 
cult, paincfuTl,  and(inthc  worlds 
efteemej  difgracefull  workes  of 
our  calling  par.^tca.io.pag.j^i. 

The  Devill  will  renew  his  aC 
faults  againft  w«,  and.  we  muft  re- 
new oat  f outage  and  ftrength  a- 
gainfthun,i)«g..a9$.  jao. 


D 


.i.r.ti 


%arti^2>  eights. 


THc  abufe  of  £<r/fc/|<  delightt 
many  waycs  hurtfiill.  par.  t. 
cap.  8.  pag.  36^, 

7)elivtrattct. 

,Opd  hath  prenfufeitD  hijdhil- 
dren  Miverance  Qttt  oftrouble. 
par.  «.  cap.  7.  pag  314. 

Faith  after  fcnous  hntn'iliation 
of  the  foulcjbangerh  tidings  that 
God  will  fcod  hcfcpc  ami  iBA't/ff 
ranc^ lAfitteft feafou,})  jaf .3x6 

God  ,ufmliy  grantcth  delive- 
ra«fe  when  the  3ffli(aion$  of  his 
fervants  bee  increafed,  and  fends , 
helpewhcntofeiUc  and  teafon  it 
is  furtheft  off.  pag.  3  J  2,.  j  JJ* 
Gods  promifing  deliveraacefvo- 
pounds  the  depth  of  mifcry  as  an 
argument  to  mov^e  his  people  to 
belicv  e  his  promife,  pag.  334. 

The  people  ot  God  praying  for 
deliverante^  propound  the  4epth 
of  n)i£ery  at  an  acgameht  tcMnove 
the  Loi-d  to  hiuxc  their  grayer. 

pag.?n.      -   ^  I 

Faith  believeth  one  contrary  in' 
another,  and  out  of  deepeft  di-l 
flreffes  gathers  aflurance  offwee- 
teft  deliverances y  pag,  H  }•  3  H« 

^epre,  I 

Tiefire  is  cither  of  want  or 
complacency,  par.  )u  cap.  4.  pagi 

Z7y.  '1 

All   hftly  dfpres   kiadled  by; 

faith,  par. ».  cap.  '2.  pag.  114-  j 
To  difire  and  long  after  for-i 

eivcncfle  an  zGt  of fai'ch,  ibid.      I 

^  Gg  This\ 


^-  \^ 


Aa  A^MttkiMX^-i^f 


This  i/ejlrc  arifeth  from  the  ne-  tempwtion  to  dot   his.ci\i\^ea 
ccfllty  and  cscelCtncj  of  forgive-  good,  ibid. 
ncfle,p.ig  »i4,  2iy.  v  r' -■"   ■  ..>:-»  ...ix 

It  is.-joiw'aCaqjd/toit'-fluggiA  a^a  iv6^(l..7>&gn/^e,n  i-^i.xsj-c; 
wifli,butadelibcrjitcjf^rcjattcn.  .i-;!,;-     •  ■;:..-.' 

.d<dvvithi|>rdporti»h3Wec.if^       AU Chiiftians  (hould  Bcquiint 
gctthcthingdcfired,p.«i5,ti(f.     thcmfelves  with  the  doHrtne  of 

Earneft <^eyJre  of  more.graca  is   faith,  par,  l,ca:  i,  pa;  i. 
nottakcnaway,  butiticrcafed  by    -    ^^^'^^^"^"^c  o£  doHrise,  to  bt 
the  participation  of  grace,  par.  i ,  tehcye^d  i ofalyation,  u  cxplancd 
ca:  4,  pag.  Z7  J.  in  i]i?  Creed  :  but  the  deffihie  of 

■  "Faith '  in'  receiviftg'  the  ii^rds  f^i'h  is  qnc  thing,  the  pnvara  z&. 
Supper  doth  (harptn  fpirit«!iall  ajf-  Pf  t^^c  hcart.rclying  upon  the  pro- 
p<ri/e,  and  tturs  lip  hungnng  and  "ii^c$  of  mercy,  another,  par;  i 
I  thitiWng  after  Chrft  and  his  "be-   cap:6,pa;77.  '     •* 

nefits,par.2,c.i:ri,pag.4i7.  VV'batifl(g';./«ef are  called  mat- 

la,  temptacion  the  godly  arc   ters  offaith,par.i,c3;y,pa:  jg. 
oft  dtceir^dv  loucUing  t4»cir',?e-  -.'-Xn'i  large  acccptation,all  truth 
>-c  of  grace,  paj,  i.  cxt  ii.  pag.-    r«y<^Icd   by  God  in  hi$  Word 

.1^7^    ...     .  .         ■:.  . :..:vvv    •     • ......        > 

..■■■  .':  Ia.:.  f'.,...  ^'.:.;ii  :>vl  mi- 
.     Tii'i^deace  ovdifiru^ 


-c  .©/j^iewceinGods  power jHicr- 
icyj.  goodncilc,  troth  and'  prbvl- 
deafccis  to  beabandonedj  pat;¥, 
ca:,i»,  pag  t8i.  .     -J 

The  hope  of  prefervation  ftay 


1$  a  matter  of  faith :  ftdftly  and 
pi;operly,  they  arc  called  maners 
ot  hiith,YvJuch  pcrtaine  to  the  na- 
ture and  cflencc  of  fa;di,ibiti. 

i.lCl  .I'.lii;  .;.     ,;.  ;  .-,  j-'...U.«':  '.  C- 


I   '^Mubting  may  fomctimc*  ac- 
.     <:ompanyriim«aHcnt,pai.i,ca.2. 
inguponour  owne  Jirength,  is   pa.-zot  .     .;..:' 

fcr£c-confiden^,andi:.thei3«rc:of       Faith  is  oft  mixed  A-vith  ^ouht- 
faJildtijg  iRWayyarifing:  frord  :thc  4*^hraiTghoiir)mfitmity,  ibid.& 
fcnfc  ofwcakenefleis  J/;^«:«Xn  *^J  ^^pa.'8a,j  -ii    -'j 
God,  ibid.-      '  .'  Faith   doth  fomctimcs  waver 

©i/^ryyf  brcedfth  nicencSjfearc  4,ad  jfiaggcr  touchin-r  the  very 
and  iluggtOincflc,  par;  i,'  ca:  lo.  principlc&themfelv^s,  and-  imme- 
P^*- 59*-  ■':■']  -y^  '■  -..a-  V'.v,,  ii.j    -diateVVordof  Godiar,*,/ei,8, ; 

SD/y/n/y?  in  the  temporall  pro-  vx.gf,  io8.  ■  •      '    t;.;^  .    :  ^ 
mifesh.uhdiiyqithe  faithfull  to  rMany  good i Chriftiartj  liyi  long 
many  hard  iliifts,  beene  the  occa-  jinfearc  and  doubt, \yh(i  would  be 
rionofdirerrc.flip$and£ills^.par.  content  to  take  any  pamcs  to  bee 
2,  cap.  8,  pa. 3  f  ji;   •  .fetlcd  in  afliir.ince  of  Gods  love. 

1>i^ruft  in  the  promifes  of  per-  -par,  *,,ca..-2  ypa.  -ztf,  : ''. 

ftverincaisthfcpiMre'.ofinaiiyxpcT. ...  jKhr.con>^it:  thaf  God  hath 
plejtttKS.^/iVThcreTfvtth  .  Chuftiahs  made  naprO«pife*f?  -WKSrcy  "fiir^o 
-ai'c  cntangled,j4ar:2icap:?  ,prj77.   them,is  the  main  caufe  why  many 

Bow  God!    doth   Older   this  Chriftians^/oa^r  and  feare,p,2jo. 
— i- —  ^      *"  '.' Isnorance 


-AT-.-f  ;  r,si        m*. 


An  AffhahtkallTadU, 


Ignorance  of ;  die  natnrc  of 
faith,  tiie  v%ay  to  c<t  a^uraritc, 
an4  the  true  ufcof  fanftification, 
iithccaul'cwhy  TmAidtvbt.f>>iZV 
Many  that  truly  believe,  cin- 
not  ccriainely  afi'irn.e  tliat  they 
believe^pnr;  t  jCa:  j,pag:i8. 

It  IS  not  the  Icffice  cf  faith  to 
mointainc  fcnrcs  and  ikubtl,  but 
through  the  fticngth  ofconupti- 
cn  ;\iid  wc.iknefle  of  f.iith  wc  arc 
oftaflauhcd,  par.  i  ,ca:8,p3^:^z. 
Motions  todjfttuft  argue  faitK 
tobrvveake,  par:i.  cap:io,  pag, 
l^a.&cap  11  pag:i<S6.  but  faith 
nuy  be  true  and  lively  that  is  but 
wcakf.pr'g,  167. 

In  refpeft  of  the  believer  him- 
i<i\i<  doubting  I J  a  wealteneflfc  to  be 
vyithifood  and  ovcrcerne  ;  but  by 
the  vtife  proridcnce  of  God  it  ij 
difpofcd  for  his  good  p;  1^9,170. 
Troubles  and  feares  by  tSe  wifa 
providence  of  God  make  for  the 
incrcafe  and  confirmatjon  of 
faith.pariijCaiSjpag;!  11. 

VVc  may  not  approve  dwhting 
for  the  good  that  God  workcs  by 
it.  pag:  111. 

In  the  middcft  of  alj  feareg 
faith  is  flill  running  unto  Cod. 
p3i:i,«.8,pagfj. 


ZkSlm, 

ELcffioH  is  an  aft  immanent  and 
cternall,par.i,cap.7,pag:89. 
The  vYord  of  life, not  the  fcciet 
decree  of  God,  is  tlie  rule  accor- 
ding to  which  wee  muft  vralkc. 
par:i,cap:iijpag;i66. 

Wee  arc  bound  to  receive  the 
ofiif  of  mercy  and  forgivcneffe 
made  in  th:  Gofpell  without  loo- 


king into  the  booke  of  Gods  Ele- 
Aion,ibid,    •'    ."•.!-i  . vjIj-v  v   ....^.n 

IfSaian  t«n»p¥c^'tii  teJ^df^ubi 
of  ilic  piomifes;  b^tcufe  we  know 
not  whether  we  be  cf  the  number 
ofthe£/c<f7j  wee  Jnufthcldfuch 
fuggcAionj  to  arifc  frgm  the  Spi- 
rit of  ciTotir,  and  not  hcv^tken  un^ 
tohimjibid.  '  .    •■  '  ^  •>  >.v7 

We  come  TO  \cn6yi  cui^  Eiefinn 
by  the  cffLfts  thereof,  as  Faith, 
Iuilificatio:)jSanftificationjpar':i. 

All  Errw/r  or  nliibeliefe  deth 
not  deftroy  the  truth  of  faith,  pnr' 
I. cap.  J, pag.  1 1.     ' 


ExidtfiC^. 

MAny  objects  pf  faitli-mfty  hl- 
fobc  e-Vh/Mf.paf. I jc  3,0.19. 
There  IS  iaevidence  diiett,and 
an  evidence  by  confequcnce^pcZt, 
Thcapprehenfion  of  the  joycs 
of  heaven  cannot  bee  diflinft  in 
this  hfc.'but  that  God  hath  provi- 
ded fuch  joyes  _!$  ccrtainc  and 
m</f«r,pag.ij.' 

ZxaminatUn. 

txamination  ©f  doflrincs  by  the 
touch- ftons  is  commanded  of 
God.par.i,cap.?,pag.i7. 

We  Houft  exAmine  our  hearts  to 
find  out  the  fins  which  haply  do 
hinder  comfort,par.  i  jC  1 1 jp.  1 7  8 

If  God  llefTe  us  not  accordmg 
topromifc,  thefirfl  work  of  faith 
is  to  ranfacke  and  fanne  the  foule 
narrowly,  to  find  out  and  remeye 
whatfocTer  doth  oflTendjpar.ijCa 
'*>p3S-3J7-&"p.io,pag.?9?. 
Ggi ixami 


An  4^fh4Paka/iTakU, 


Examinatm  of  om:  hearts  i»  a 
neccffary  duty,  but  to  be  done  in 
due  order,  fo  as  w«e  bee  ftiircd  u  p 
untopot  drivci»fi.on3  the  pradicc 
of  other  duties  no  Icffc  xiccdfuU, 
par.  z.  cap.  C.pag.  J03. 

Faith  tcachetU  in  time  of  affli- 
ftion  to  examine  out  wayes  that 
wee  may  find  out  what  it  amiflc. 
par;>,c»p;7,pag;5ii,  jj5>, 

%xamfk  See  CmHmcmdcmtnt 
and  Prtmiji, 


Exptrienct. 

Experience  and  fcnfc  is  a  ftay  or 
prop  for  our  better  eafc,  not  the 
ground  upon  which  our  faith  Ica- 
nethjp.u;  i,cap:  i2,pag:  177. 

Faith  gocth  before  experience, 
and  waiteth  for  falvation  in  the 
depth  of  mifcry,  grounding  irfetf 
upon  the  tender  mercy  andfuth* 
full  promifc  of  Qod,  ibid. 

Experience  is  of  great  ufc  in  a 
godly  life  to  confirine  faithj  &c. 
par:2,cap;i(»,pagj  J  8p,par4i,  cap 
ii,pag:i6j. 

The  fnaallcfl  beginnings  are 
pledges  of  greater  favours,  par;  i, 
ca;  I  i,  pag:  171. 

Prcfent  and  former  blcflingsaf- 
furc  of  future  proteftion  and  com- 
fort,par:i,cap.  3,  pag;  »j.  bccaufe 
God  is  unchangeable,  the  fame 
for  ever,  par: i, cap;  11, pag:  16 j. 

Having  oacc  found  ttrength 
«nd  deUvtranoe^in  temptation  and 
diftrcffe^  by  flying  to  God  in 
Chrift ,  we«  kno^-v  by  Ectperieitce 
what  todoe,  when  fach  like  fiare 
rcturneth  on us^par; 2,c^,  ?■  ior. 

Experience  of  Gods  dealing 
with  as  in  former  diltrcffcs  is  a 
meanes  to  fappcr:  faith  in  prefcnt 


trouWe»,pag:jj,, 

Experknoe  of  Gods  power  and 
goodneffem  bringing  us  alive  in- 
to  the  World,{hould  bee  a  meanes 
to  fuppoi  t  faith  in  the  moft  hopc- 
le{Iftc»nditioA,pag:  jjj,  54J. 

F. 

Faitb. 

DTverfe   acceptations    of  the 
wordj-d/Vfc^par.I^capri-pag 
a,  J. 

How  and  in  whatrefpefts/ar/j!, 
isneceflary,ibid. 

Snitsof/<a//^Jbid. 

What  thefc  phrafas,  Faitl  ef 
Chrifi,  &  Faithtvhich  is  by  Chri/^ 
Faith  OH   Chnfi,  and  Faith  in 
Chrifi,  do  no:e,p2g.s. 

There  is  a  fained  and  dead 
faltb,  and  a  foveraignc,  well  roo- 
teda  unfained  faitb  par;  i ,  cap;  4, 

The  Author  and  worker  of 
jaith  is  Goti  in  Chrift  by  the  Holy 
Ghoft^par:  i,cap;  a,  pag;  7,8. 

A  twofold  worke  of  God  in 
producing j^VH,  pag..  i  ©,  i  r. 

Faith  is  3  free  worke  of  Gods 
gr3ce,par;i,cap;r,p3g;7. 

Though  God  give  nozfaith  un. 
to  all  men,  hec  violently  with- 
holds  faitl  from  none  that  fee- 
kcth  itj  pag;  1 4. 

As  the  beginning,  fo  the  in- 
crcafeand  progrcflc  o{  faitk  is  c£ 
God,  pag;  I  J. 

How/fli/^ia  the  worke  of  God, 
and  the  aftof  man,pag:  1 1. 

Kaowledgc  coiKurres  to  the 
being  of/tf;>/b,par:  i,cap:  Ji,pag:i  J 
16.  See  I^nmleJ^e, 

Faitb  and  evidence  may  ftand 
together^pag:!^. 

Faith 


i 


An  AlfMtttietkUTAhh, 


faith  and  Science  arc  habits 
that  may  ftand  together,  ibid. 

faith  is  an  aiTenc^pa.!  8,i^:Ste 
jtfent. 

In  Kowne  nature  fahi  is  op- 
pofice to  doubting,  pa.  ao,  &  ca. 
8,  pa.  91 

faith  nmft  be  entire  in  all  fun* 
d.imcntall  points,  pa.  ri. 

faith  ii  an  affiance,Sec  Affianct 
'  8l  confidence. 

Scverall  words  ufed  to  exprcfls 
the  nature  of  that/ai/*,  which  the 
Lord  requires  of  his  people,  p« 
i4,  zy,  i6. 

Hovy  faith  is  the  fubftaace  of 

things   hoped  for,  and  the  evi- 

'  dcnce  of  things  not  feene,p  z  j  19 

Confldcacc  oft  pHt  for  faith, 
pa.  16. 

Difference  betwixt  faith  and 
hope,  pa.  JO. 

faith  ordinmly  ruleth  where 
it  dwcUeth,  but  the  rule  is  mild 
and  gentle,  pa.  3  5. 

The  ftrength  of  faith  it  equall 
tetbcproiai(etoflifc,and  to  the 
offices  of  piety  and   lore.   pa. 

f  dJ/fe  is 'oppofed  to  wavering, 
doublc-mindedncs,  difobedicncc. 
ibid. 

faith  difperfeth  the  tertuc  of 
the  Word  into  every  faculty  of 
the  foale,pa. J4,&  ca:  lo,  pa.  i  j  9. 
par.  I,  ca:  9,  pa.  3  80. 

faith  for  nature  is  a  fpirituall 
taftcjhowfocverdcfefiivcfor  de- 
greCjpa,  ?  7.     Sec  SfirituaXtafit. 

faith  admits  many  interrupti- 
oai3ca:4,  pp.  58. 

Love  is  not  the  foule  or  life  of 
/di/i,par.  i,  ca:  4,  pa.  38.  See 
Forme  and  tflo/e. 

fdfftworkethbylovc,  and  is 
not  wrought  by  Iove,p.4i,44.5  i. 


faith  it  the  mcifure  of  love, 
pa.  41. 

How  the  goodn«fii  of  Ood  ii 
the  objeA'  both  of  our  faith  and 
love, pa.  j^.  40.  Sec  GoodMe^e  of 
God.  ^    ^ 

In  refpeA  of  fpirituall  \iit  faith 
is  more  nccelTary  then  charity,  p. 
44.andifwecconfider  mai^  pii- 
ratcly,  and  for  his  owne  ufcjibid. 
&  when  we  fpcake  of  the  meanes 
of  Juftification,/aj/*  mud  be  pre- 
ferred, pa.  4  j. 

In  what   fenfe    the    Apoftle 
faith,  ^s  the  body  without  the  fpi.  \ 
rit, fo faith  without  tv^rhycs  is  dead, 
pag-  4J.  44. 

faith  ftirrcth  up  and  direftcth 
all  other  graces  of  the  foule  in 
their  operations,  par.  i,  ca.  4, 
pa.  39.44. 

It  ii  no  trw faith  which  is  p;ve> 
red  from  good  workes,pa.  54.^5, 
Hows  faith  is  perfcded  by  vvorks 
pa,  44, 45. 

faith  moveth  and  ftirreth  tffe- 
flions,  according  as  the  nature  of 
the  thing  believed  (hould  and 
oughttoworkej  as  of  the  Cre- 
ation, Providence,  Mifcry  of  Man 
by  Cnne,  Myftcrics  of  Godlinefle, 
par.ijCa.y.pa. 60.61, 

fMth  doth  reft  upon  and  em- 
brace all  the  pr0mifcs,and  that  fo 
miich  the  fafter,as  the  promifcs  be 
the  more  excellent,  pa.  61, 

faith  ftaycth  upon  the  word  of 
promife,  and  is  confident  of 
things,  toreafeniacredihle,  in 
nature  impoflible,  &c.  par.  i, ca. 
10,  pa.  13  J. 

faith  is  direfted  to  Gm  ,  in 
and  through  Jefu«  Chrift,  our 
neare  kinfman,  who  hath  taken 
our  nature  j  which  ihould  cocou- . 
rage  us  t»  believ«,p.  x  .c.  i  i.p.  i  f  *.  I 
Ggj  TAith\ 


I 


An  Al^hAUtUall  Ta,hle, 


fakb  cannot  take  and  learc,  ftcongly  fliakcn  and  greatly  af. 
yceld  and  with-hold  aflent  at  faulted,  pag, 9^,  S  cTe/aptations, 
pleafurc,  part  and  minglc,divtic        i'ai/t  that  is  finccre  in  quality. 


with  timcs>  feafons,  and  private 
rcfpcft$,pag.66.pac.i,  ca.  9,  pag. 

What  God  approve th,  that  is 


is  ever  found  in  degiee,  and  doth 
conSrme  and  llrengthcn  it  fclfe 
every  day  more  and  more,  par.  j, 
^^'  J>  P-ig-J  f  •  faith  :s  fometimes 


picafin  -  to  faith,  though  ciolle  to    little  and  wcakc  par.  i ,  cap.  4  pag. 
a4ejCdLication,cuftjme,crcd.it,&c.    Jo 


ibid. 

J^aith  fuhdiicth  the  ftrongcft 
paflions  as  vvcU  and  (if  due  and 
right  comparifon  bee  made )  as 
much  as  the  weakelt,  pa.  67,59, 
^o.  &  a:  1  o.  pa.  1 39.  pa.  *,  ca. 

In  particular  piaAifes  the  faith- 


There  ar*  diyerfQ  degrees  bf 
faith,  UttU faith,  ^icit faitb,  full 
afluraacc  of/jWi5>,  par,  i,  cap.  8. 
pag.  I  op.  ca.  10,  pag.  140,.  par. ». 
cap.  }.  pa  Z44. 

T\\Q  faith  of  the  clcd  is  fincere,. 
thc/a«fe  of  fotae  pcrfed  m  com- 
parifon  of  others,  but  abfolutely 


full  may  faiU,but  the  conftant  re-  faith  is  perfeft  in  none,  pag.  141. 

folution    of  the  believer   is    to  par.  1,  ca.  la.  p.ig.  189. 

cleave  unto  God,  pag.  68 i  Faith  is  impcrfed  extcnfivelyi 

JF<ji.'l)is  neceflarytofalvation,  and  intenfivcly,  pag.  14J. 

but  full  aflurancc,  that  I  believe  The  faith  of  the  weakeft  Chri- 

in  fuch  fort,  is  not  of  like  ncceffi-  fiian  is   fufficient  to   fal  vation. 

ty,par.  i,ca.  7,pag.84.  P-ig.l4»- 

ThedayGS  oi  faith  arc  as  the  The  degrees  of  true  and  lively 

fcafonsof  the  yeare,  fomc  fairc,  /a//)!)  may  be  confidered  according 

fomcfoulc,par.i,ca  8.pag.92,«  to  the   diverfe   growths  which 

There  is.  a  fiate  wherein /«f/j&  Go.i  bringeth  his  children  unto. 


15  a  fmoking  weakc ,  defiring  it 
could  believe,rather  then  gcttiag 
up  to  feele  itfelfe  believe,  pa.  94. 
In  which  cafe  want  of  feeling  ar« 
gucih  not  want  oi faith,  pa  i,  ca. 
i&.  pa.  169. 
Chiiitians     cannot    alwayes 


their  time  and  meanes  of  grace, 
pag. 14J. 

Foure  degrees  oifaitb,  ibid. 

Faith  is  weake  in  knowledge, 
aflent,  confidence  and  the  fruits 
thereof,pag.  i4j,i4^. 

.Theweakeft/4i/Jb  it  advifedly 


iudgeofthattheydo,  nor  of  the  rcf^lvcd  to  fticke  faft  unto  the 

great     confcquenccs     thereof,  promifes  of  life,  as  much  better 

though  faith  be  not  troubled,  pa.  then  the  pleafures  and  profits  of 

94«  this  life,  ibid. 

There  is  a  ftate  wherein  faith  Ta  it  b  wcake  in  one  tdpc&  may 

is  cxescifed  with  temptations  ibid  be  ftrong  in  another,  pag.  1 4  5. 

In  which  the  weake  in  faitb  muft  A  we^afcc  and  Atong  faith  differ 

not  meafure  themfelves  by  their  not  in  nature  and  plantation,  but 

owneprefent  feelings  and  infir-  in  degree,  pag.  146. 

mitics,par.i,cap;  12,  pag,   169,  The  benefits  of  the  weakcft 

Sometimes  the  ftrong /ai/A  is  faitb,  if  true  and   lively,  ibid. 
Sc 


An  AfphabeticaliTahle^ 


Sc  cap.  1 1,  pag.  1C7.  In  the  workes  of  our  calling 

We  flwuld  ftrivc  to  be  ftrong  faith  tcacheth  to  leane  upon  the 

and  rich  in/aif!?,par»i,ca.io.  pag.  living  God,  and  not  on  oar  stil, 

M^3  »47.  and  cunning,  par.  2,  ca.  10.  pa. 

Vyeakc/<j;/Bjif fcundjWill  grow  j»o. 

and  incrcafe,  ibid.  It  fubmitteth  to  Gods  diicAi- 

Thc  benefits  of  ftrong/a//JSi,  p.  on,  pa.  597.  dcpendeth  upon  his 

147, 148.  hdpc  and  aflillancc,  ibid,  waitcih 

Meancsfoi  the  right  planting  for  good  fucccflc, pa.  j^g. 

of  faith,  fan  i,cap;  11, pag  155.  /"airbfccdethupon  every  part 

154.&C.  of  the  Word  ,  getteth  intereft  in 

Faith  once  obtained  1$  fcrioufly  every  promifcjand  Uickcth  vigour 

to  be  regarded,  pa.  1583  i^c&c  outof  it,par.i,ca.i  i.pa.406. 

•     The  labour  taken  about  the  The /"iairb  ofoncmayheipe  to 

prcfcrvation   cf    faith   is    more  obtainc  for  another,  fofr.rrc  as  it 

fwccttlicn  any  pleafurc  or  delight  movcth  to  pray  for  others,  par.  i. 

in  tlic  world, pag.  160.  cap,  10,  pa.  140. 

Mcancs  whcreby/af/fe  is  ftrcng- 

thened  and  confirmed,  pag.  160.  Faithfulneffe. 
161.  &c. 

We  muft  eftccme/ar/!»  to  bee  Faith  put  for  truth,  fidelity  or 
cur  richcfl  jcwcU  ,  and  niolf  pre*  faith  ulnejfe ,  pa,  i,ca.  i,pa.  2. 

cious  tiealure  in  this  life,  ibid.  Faith    caufcth  diligence    and 

Faith   inacafcth  by  cTcrcifc,  faitbfulrtejje  in  all  workes  and  bu- 

and- gtowcth  by  continuall  ufe.  fineffes  of  our  calling,  par.  z,  ca, 
pag.i64,pn.  2,ca.  i,pa.  19?. 

Marty  evalls  follow  the  weak 
ningcffairfc,ca.i2,  pa.  1*4.  and 


no  it{![c  the  ncglcd  to  nourifh 
nnd  prefcrrc  it, par.  i,cap,i  i.pag. 
x6o. 


"O^E^g  390,  jpi. 
Tolling. 


Many  good  Ghriftianj  through 
fcare  oi  falling  away  are  entan- 


Faithm-syhc  tiuc,though  much  glcd  with  dj vers  perplexities,  par 

were  nmilTc when  fiift  wee  rccei-  3,ca.  y.  pa.  a77jl79« 
ved  the  truth,  par.- 1,  ca.  i:,  pa.       The  Temporary  believer  Vvho 

170.  was  never  knit  unto  Chrifl  as  a 

Sight  oi faith  may  be  hid  from  living,  naturall,and  proper  mem- 

our  knowledge ,  and   the  lively  bcr,  may  /«//   away    from   that 

funftions     thereof  intermitted,  which  he  fcemed  to  have  :  but 

par.  I ,  ca  3, pa.  1 8 ,  &  ca-  12.  pa.  the  true  believer  ,  who  receiveth 

'7J>*74-  new fupply  of  grace  continually 

Faith  may  be  flrong,  when  we  from  Chrift  the    fountainc  of 

have  no  fcnfc  nor  feeling  of  mcr.  grace,{hall  never  be  utterly  dtfti- 

cy,p3g.  177.  tute,pag.  286. 

Faith  fets  an  incftimable  price        The  godly  may  fall  into  fomc 

upon  the  pearlc  of  the  GofpclU  fouleand  enomaious  crime  wa-| 

fting  confcience  ,  and  for  a  time| 
Gg  4 


par.  s,ca.^,  pa.  j7«. 


lofe» 


An  Alfhaheticall  Tabie, 


ioofc  fome  degree  of  newaefle  of 
Spirit,  cleancflc  of  hsari,  comfort 
of  the  HolyGhoft,  and  peace  of 
Conrcien6ejpar.x,ca;8jpa;i  iS. 

Faith  fhewes  a  man  his  owne 
vveakcnefle,  how  apt  he  is  not  oa- 
ly  tafaSjhixtto  fall  away,  ftirres 
■Mtphoiyjealoufic  &  fufpitionleft 
he  {hovAdfalij  buc  yet  makes  con- 
fident in  God  through  Chrilt  to 
be  upheld,  pa.jSi.tSj, 117,^88, 

He  that  trufts  not  in  himfelfc, 
but  in  the  power  of  God,  will, 
thoughhc/4/Sfoft,ftillh3ve  hope, 
and  renue  his  courage  to  fet  upon 
hi»  enemies  after  fome  foiles  re- 
ceiTed,pa,  i,  ca;  6,  pa.  z^y. 

feare. 

reare  is  a  deceitful!  and  malitt- 
ous  paffion,  tyraniiicall,raih  and 
inconfideratc ,  proceeding  many 
times  from  want  of  judgment, 
more  then  from  the  prcfence  or 
approach  of  evrill  ta  bee  learcd. 
par:  i,c3.  i»,pa:  iSi. 

feare,  doubting,  feeblcneffe, 
fainting,  nice  tendernelTe  or  mel- 
ting ofheartin  troablc,  proceeds 
from  infidelity  and  diftruii,  par: 
»,ca:7,pa.9^Q. 

Exccflivc/earc  brings  that  up- 
on us  from  which  wee  efpccially 
dcCre  to  be  freed,  fets  open  the 
heart  to  Sathans  malicious  temp- 
utions,and  binds  the  .hands  that 
they  can  make  no  rcfiftance,  par, 
I,  ca.  1 2,  pa,  18  f,  par.  2^ca.6  pa. 
197, ij8. 

An  afflidcd  fpirit,  toffed  with 
feare  Sc  terror,  through  the  temp- 
tations of  Sathan,  is  imablc  to 
judge  of  it  owne  eftate,  par.  i,ca.' 
^.  p3g.3oi,5o». 


Slavifli/fdre  is  to  be  itrivca  a- 
gainftj  but  feare  of  caution  to  bee 
cherifted,  par.  1,  ex-  i»,pa.4t», 

r«TgiveneJfe,Stt  Remijfm. 
twme. 

Tht  forme  is  the  beginning  of 
z&ions,  par.  i,  ca:  4,  p.  40, 

There  is  ajorme  effenttall  and 
accidentall,  ib;d. 

It  is  the  efientiall/orwc  or  ad  of 
faith  to  accept  of  the  promifes  of 
mercy,  pa,  3.9. 

Charity  may  be  called  an  acci- 
dentall/orwe  of  faith,  pa.  40. 

Faith  is  not  quickened  by  cha- 
rity orthcworkesofCharity,bat 
quickeneth,pa.  44. 

Free-»iJl 

It  is  not  the  good  ufe  of  a  mass 

free-ma  thu  makes   him  difitr 

from  other  men,pnr.  i,  C3.a,pa  9. 

There  are  no  feeds  of^ith  in 

our  nature,  ibid. 

Gf  our  fclvcs  we  have  no  pow- 
er to  believcjor  prepare  our  fclyes 
thereunto,  pag,  7. 

The  infufion  oi  faith  is  nteef* 
farily  precedent  to  the  aftof  faith 
par;  I,  ca;  1 0,^)1.136. 

Man  cannot  naturally  either  fee 
and  perceive,  or  Will  &  dcGre  the 
things  of  God,  pa,  10,  ii. 

Thereis.no  naturall  difpofiti- 
on  in  the  will  of  man  to  csme  un- 
to God.  pag.  1 1, 

It  is  God  that  inclines  the  will 
agreeably  to  the  difpofition  of  it 
to  come  unto  him,  ibid. 

How  it  is  true  that  wee  believe 
becaufe  we  will  believe,  pa.  i  z* 
Faith  is  a  workjOot  of  the  pew- 


1 


An  AtphaBeticall  TaBle, 


er  of  ourfree-milf  but  of  the  effi-  Oo^eli. 

cacy  of  gracc,par.i,ca.  io,pa.  i^6. 

'I  he  Icflc  able  we  are  to  believe.        Faith  put  for  the  Go^ellfpn.j* 
the  more  carefull  {hould  v?c  be,    ca.  i^  pag.  i, 
to  ufe  the  meancs,  that  God  hath 
ordainedjthat  we  might  obtainc 
it,  pag.  14. 

If  faith  were  the  woike  of  our 
free-wiUit  might  well  perifl?,  par. 
ajCnp.fjpag.zSp.  We  could  have 


Grace  or  fret  favour. 

It  is  through  Grace  that  men 
believe,  par:  i,ca.  i,  pag.  7. 
It  ii  of  grace  that  one  doth  bc- 


over,  par.   i 


no  r ell   or  quiet  conccrnincr  our  ^icve,and  not  another,  pag.  3. 
future  cftate,  pag,  179.  Grace  or  mercy  is  freely  promi 

He  that  relies  upon  the  good  ^^^  ^^^^t  wc    might  believe  ,  and  I 

|nfeofhi$/ree-»ii7,mu(tnecelfari-  vouchfafed  to  him  that  doth  be- 

ly  afciibe  the  praife  of  his  perfeve-  ^  eve,  par.  a,  ca.  x,  pag.  4 1 ». 
ranccin  part,  if  not  principally.        Life  is  through  taith  ,  that  it 

untohimfelfe,  par.  a,  ca   f,  pa.  "light  be  of ^r4fe,par.2,c.  1,0.196 
X8l.  Pardon  otlinis  of  faith,  thatjt 

might  be  of^r4<:e,par.2,ca.i,pag. 

Frugality,  a«i.iii. 

Salvatio  it  felf  is  ofgrace^is  well 

He  that  expels   Gods  helpc,  ^s  any  benefit  we  have,  tending 

when  mcanes  faile,  cannot  lavifli  thereunto,  par,  2,  cap.  4,  pag, i  52. 

iftdifcreetlywhcnhis  cup  runneth  Which    Ihould  quicken   faith  jn 

,  cap.  8,  pag,  357,  ihcpromifeoffalvation,pag.i65. 

Q  ^  Grace  or  gifts  of  grace. 

Faith  acquaints  a  man  with  his 

Gifts.  cmptincs  of  prdc«,par  a,c.  3 , p.  241 

Faith  is  diiigcnt  in  the  iiCe  of 

themeanes  of  grace,  but  reftcth 

not  in  them,  pa.  24a. 

Faith  being  the  pipe  which  con- 
veycs  all  grace  from  Chrift  the 
fount.%ine,  they  that  would  be  in- 
richedwith  grace,  muft  bee  knit 
unto  Chrift  by  faith.pa.244.  The 
want  of  this  is  the  true  cauCe,  why 
men  labour  in  vaine  to  ptadile 
fome  particular  vcrtue,pa^.i44. 

They  that  would  pcrUvcrc  in 
grace,  muft  be  knit  to  ChrifV  by 
faith, par.  2,ca,  5.pag,  286. 

The  believer  doth  not  relic  up 


Faith  is  ipft  of  God  moft  free 
and  profitabTe,par.i,c3.a,  pag.  7. 

It  is  iLgift  of  free,  eternal],  and 
unchangeable  love,  pa.  5^. 

Goodncjfe  of  God. 

The gooineji  ojGoilt  the  ob- 
ject of  our  charity,  by  being  firft 
the  obje^  of  our  faith,  par.  i%cap. 

Oura£Fc&ion$  cannot  in  love 
move  to,  and  unite  themCclves 
Vtith  Goijtill  by  faith  wc  know 

him  to  be  an  amiable  c  bjed  fur    on  thofc  fandified  graces,  which 
|tisiinAcrttoeoabrace,pa.  4^.  are  given  unto  him,thathe  might 

be 


An  A/phdheticall  Table, 


be  qujlified  and  fitted  to  plead  pag.  17^.  186. 

ioY  grace  and  mercy,  par.  t,  ca.  a.  Thc^racef  of  God  do  ebbc  and 

pag.  zij.  fiowiahisf«LTants,pag.i7j. 

Grace  is  given  frccly,not  dafcr-  In  Geds  dcareft  children  there 

vcd    by   workcs,  yet  by  tbc  ap-  may  bcdccayofgraccf  in  part,and 

pointmentofGod,  he  that  would  for  a  time,  pag.  171,  173   Left  if 

encrcafe  in.  grace y  muft  employ  we  kad  attained   facility  m  all 

whathehathreceivcd,par.a,ca.3.  things^we  ftould  thinke  that  our 

pag.  Z43.  owne,  which  is  meercly  bis  work. 

We  arc  affurcd  from  God  that 


he  will  perfedl  the  workc  o(grace 
which  he  hath  begiin,par.ti  ca:  5. 
pag.27  5.aDdca,  9.  pag.  37  f. 

The  leaft  meafure  ot  fanftify- 
ing^mce,  isanearntft  of  further 
graceto  bercccivedjpar.  2.  ca.  3. 
pag.  24  y. 


P3g.  17?. 

The  Lord  many  times  with- 
drawes  the  ufe  of  fomc  particular 
grace,  that  fome  other  may  in 
greater  meafure  fl»cw  forth  it 
ftlfCjibid. 

In  the  time  of  temptation  the 
godly  want  the  light  of  Godsgra- 


Crate  is  an  evidence,  pawncjor  cexinthem,  p-^r.  2,  cap,  6.  pag. 

earneiljyca  the  beginning  of  glo-  301. 
ry^par.  J,ca,4,p3g.z53,i5  5,i5<5,        This  comes  to  paflcjfomstimes 

According  to  the  meafure  of  through  feare,(ometimcs  through 

^racercceivedjfo  is  the  life  of  glo-  pcttillineffe,pag.  301,  301. 
ry  beguninus,ibid.&p3g.z6{{.  Grace  may  appearc  to  others 

Livelinefle     and     aftivencfle  when  in  the  time  of  temptation  a 

may  be  lefle  when  the  truth  of  godly  man  cannot  difcernc  it  in 

grace  is  the  greater,  par.  2.  ca.  6.  himftlfe,par.  i.ca.  12,  pag.  190; 

p.ag.  3ii.&par;i.ca  li.pag,  187.  par.  2,  ca.  6.  pa.  502,  503,  311. 

Grace  may  be  true  whiles  it  is       True^race,  well  planted  in.  the 

fmalljpar.r.ca.!  2,pag.  17?,  heart,  how  weake  foever,  Ihall 

None  atraine  to  perfcftion  of  hold  out  for  ever, par.  i  ,ca.  1 2.  pa. 

grace  m  thisjife,  ibid.  Therefore  182 

wcmuftfeeketo  be  cured  ot  our  ,     The  long  and  manifold  temp- 

weakenefle,  and  not  defpairc  of  tations,wherewith  the  godly  art 

life,  ibid.  cxercifcd,  is  tet  them  an  argument 

T\\cgrace  of  God  workes  not  oigrace  received,  pa.  303.  304. 
alwaies  alike  in  his  children,  par.        in  refped  of  the  exa(ft  meafurc 

t.cap.6.pag.303.jj  i  i.par  i.cap.  ix  oigrace  and  ftrength,  the  regenc^ 

pag.  187.  rate  arc  oft  deceived,  but  of  the 

The  effefts  oigrace  doe  not  al-  truth  of  grace  they  may  be  aflfured, 

waiesappeare  the  fame,yca  fomc-  par.  i,  ca,  8,  pag.  100. 
times  they   fecme  to    be   quite        He  that  fees  iiitnfelfc  mjferable 

overwhelmed,  par.  i,ca;  8.  pag.  by  finne,  though  hee  can  fee  no 

92.  grace  in  his  fouIc,!»  called  to  come 

Grates  may  lie  hid,  and  worke  unto  C  hrift,3nd  believe,  that  hee 

in  refpeft  of  our  acknowledge-  might  receive  of  his  fulneffe,  par. 

mentinfcnfibly.par.  i.  cap.  is.  i,  cap.  ii,  pag.  176,  190.  191. 

_^ P^^' 


dn  Aiphabeticall  Table, 


par.  2.  ca.  b.  pag.  3©a,  jo  5 , 
Clorie, 
Faith  in  the  promife  ot pardon 


Faithfeafoncth  eyery  ficulty  of 
fouIe,rcafonable  and  lenfuall,pai-. 
i.cap.  3  pag-3.4  par.  zcap.p.pag 
587. 

By  faith  Ghrilt   dwelUtU  and 


maintains  thcg'ory  of  Gods  grace    ruleth  m  our  bearr  fyV>zi,i  cap.  10 
intirc,  par.  i.  ca.  i.  p.ig.  iij  .  pag.i  j  i.  par.  z.cap.  p  png.  ^7-8. 

It  is  i  gr'cat^/ory  to  God  that  The  vvhol:  heart  noreth  the  in- 
we  live  by  faith  on  him  concer-  tegrity  and  upnghtnefle  of  the 
ning  oiir  future  cftate,par.xca.  j.  fonlc,  not  thcperfcdion  of  omcc 
pag.  j8i.  without  any  infhmity  or  dcfed. 

In  time  of  temptation  we  glo»    par.  i.cap  «,pag.  10  r. 
rific  God  by  belecving,  and  eive        The  iMrr  umegencrate  is  dc- 
himasit  were  a  teftimoniall  of    ccitfulJ,    the  heart  re^'cncrarc  is 
his  truth,power,mercy,and  good-   true  ;.nd  f.iithfull,  nag.  100. 
nefle,  par.  i, ca  6.  pag.  tgz  In  Come  particular  rcfolutions, 

God  is  hereby  much  glorified,  the  faithful!  ?nay  be  ignorant  of 
thatwe  rcLie  upon  him  in  time  their  ownefcarrx.  but  of  their  <?c- 
of  diiheflc,  par.  a.  ca^.  7.  pag.  ncrall  purpofe  they  may  bctrucly 
319.  perfwadcd.ibjd, pjg.  114.  &  ca. 

iz:  pag.  :74. 
H. 

Heaven* 
Habit. 

Did  men  know  the  worth  and 

NOt  the  Ja{)rV  of  faith  fthoiigh   gloryof  the  Kingdome  of  fccat/fWj 
that    be  neccflary)  but  the   they  would  fceke  it  with  all  ear- 
aft  of  faith  is  that  which  God  neftaeffc,  par.  i^cap. 4,  pa.  167. 
commandeth  in  the  ScriptufC,pai:.    268. 

I.  cap.  I.  pag,  5.6.  Men  oft  fceke  earthly  thingSj 

God  infufeth  the  lahit  of  faith  and  mifTe  of  their  defires  3  but  the 
into  man,  whereby  hee  giveth  to  promife  of  fce^veWjisfure  and  ftcd- 
will  to  come  unto  Chsiftj  pag.  10.   faft,  ibid. 

n.  Sloth  and  carclcfneflc,  in  fee- 

king  he^veUy  is  more  to  be  con- 

Heart,  dcmned,  then  in  matters  of  the 

world,  par.  XjC3p.4,pag.2  64  will 

In  Scripture  the  heart  h  taken   caufe  more  gricfe  and  hc.irc-brea- 

forthe  whole  foule,  with  all  its    king,  p.ag,i68. 

powers  and  operations,  par.i.  ca. 

Hi floricall  faith 


10.  pag- 138. 

1  hclcatc  of  faith  \s  the  hesrt 
contrite,hiimblGd,  bewailing  fin, 
denying  it  felfe.and  aftsfled  with 
dcfire  of  rcmifliun  of  fmnes,  pag. 
»37. 


Hifiori  call  faith  what  it  is.  par, 
i.cap.  I.  pag.  J.  -and  why  called 
bi/loricatl,  ibid. 

Wheiein  faith  hi/forica'l  and! 
, Juftifying  t_ 


An  Alfhttbeticall  Table, 


Juftifying  ;^gree,  par,  I]  ca.  4. 
pa.  49. 


otgodliaeflCjpa:252,zj4,2(5. 
Utmility. 


Halimgt, 

The  humble  fpiiit  drinkes  up 
Our  ftrcngthis  tooweakc  for  much  grace,  and  ihall  bee  replc-  l 
the  worke  ofholinejfey  if  cherforc  nifhed  abundantly,  pa;  i,  ca:  1  x.^ 
wee  bee  not  perCwadcd  that  God  p:^:  i8j.  .  ,  ,  ,  .,,  ...\,\j' 
will  be  with  us  in  k,  we  muft  .  What  God  giyes  in  giacr*  doth 
needs  faint  and  be  difmaid,  par.z.  worke  the  heart  t'j  hurailiiy  and 
ca.  3,pa.  140.  &ca  5jpa.177.if4i  tender  cotnmiferation,  par.  i,  ca: 
&ca;9,pa.a7z,»7}.  8,  pa;  356,  &  ca;  10,  pa,  3 9  J. 

Being  acquainted  with  our  Of  all  graces  faith  is  the  moft 
weakenefle  herein,  wee  arc  hum-  &a«We,  par.  ijca:  5,pa:  j6.pa.z. 
bled  in  Gur  felves,  and  in  all  our  ca:  i,  pa:  i96,-^&  cap;  9.  pag: 
purpofesand  refoiutions  relying   383, 

upon  the  power  of  the  Lord  are  The  more  finccrely  faith  work- 
drayvne  to  prayer,  pa:  Z41, 147.  eth,  the  better  wee  difcerne  and 
Faithinthepromifesofevcrla-  unfainedly  acknowledge  our  im- 
fiinglifc  leadcth  forward  in  the  pcrfe(5lions,anddifclaimeallaffi- 
pathof  ^e/r«e^,  par.  z,ca:  4.  pa:  ancein  our  owne  righieoufnefle, 
254,  261.  Hearteneth  in  the  par.  i,ca:  6,  pa;70. 
workes  of  godlinefle  againft  all  The  believer,  the  higher  hee  is 
oppoCtion$,pa:i$2,  2f  y.  exalted  by  the  free  mercy  of  God, 

Faith  in  the  promife  of  pcifc-  the  lower  hee  is  abafed  in  him- 
veranceputslorthit  felfe  toper-  felfe,par;  i,ca;  2,pa:  ail. 
forme  all  duties  of  hoUneJfe  and 
love  with  life  and  fervour,  par.  2. 
ca:  5,  pa:  278,  284. 

Faith  coveteth  incr«afc  of 
grace  and  holmjfe,  as  men  doe  in. 
creafe  of  bodily  health  and 
ftrength,  pa;28|',  286.  likmjfz. 

The  mora  afllirance  of  faith, 
the  mare  bolirtejfe  of  life,  par;  1, 
ca:  I,  pa:  »26,  &  ca;  j,pa:  278. 


Faith  in  the  threatnings  work- 
cth  htimblenejfc  of  mind  and  heart 
par:  2,ca;  12,  pa;  423. 


I. 


Hope. 

Ho/>e  of  heaven  is  the  fure  an- 
chor of  the  foulc  to  cftablifh  it, 


SLotb  in  the  worke  of  God  how 
made  odious,  pa,  2,  ca:  ^,  pi. 
J83.384. 

When  we  are  ti/e  and  folitary, 
Satan  hath  moft  advantage  to 
tempt :  but  confcionablc  imploy- 
ment  fhutteth  the  dooic  againft 


that  it  be  not  overwhelmed  with  him,  and  takerh  away  the  oppor 
the mifcries  ©f  this  life,par.'  2,  ca;  tunity,  par:a,ca;  6,  pa:  »97, 198. 
4,pa:25i,26i,&ca:5,  pa:28o.        goS^jo^. 

Hope  of  heaven  makes  undaun* 
ted  and  unwearied  in  the  wayes  J^norance. 


An  AlfhiiheticaU  T^le, 


Jgnvrance. 

The  darkcncflc  of  minde  is  an 
impediment  to  full  and  perfeft 
icnowIedjc,par:i.ca,io  pag:i4i. 
I4i- 


and  chearefull  underwker  of  any 
paines  or  toylc.p.v.jjCap.i  fi,pag. 

Nothing  can  fa  much  encoa- 
rage,  quciten  and  confirmc  in 
painfs  taking  as  faith,  pat^:  J98, 
He  that  i  J  filcnt  cxpeftmg  Gods 
Being  compaffed  about  witK  hclpewhen  mcancsfailc,  c.innot 
the  mifts  oi ignorance^  wc  attainc  fit  ftiU  when  meancs  bee  at  hand, 
not  the  undciltanding  of  many  par«  x>ca,8,pJg;j  57^367. 
thingsrcTcaIcd,par.l,ca;j,pa.iS.  Faith  incites  men  to  labour  in 
Ihs  Papifti  commend /^woranff  Godsworke,vyho  live  daily  on  his 
and  difgracc  knowledge,  pag.  16.    allovrance,  pig:  567. 

They  teach  that  faith  is  muck 
I  bettcf  defined  by  ignorance  then  Infirmities, 

by  knowledge,  pag;  1 7. 

Faith  captivates  our  underftan-  The  true  believer  is  fenfiblc  of 
ding  unto  the  obcdiccc  ef  Chrift,  his  raaniiold  infirmities  and  fai. 
butis  not  i^norawf  of  Chiift,p:i»  ling$,par;»,ca:9,pag:j8i. 

Faith  fubjedeth  reaCon  unto     /w/rwi/JM  mutt  bee ackuow led* 
thcdoftrineof  God  and  his  rcvc-  gcdand  bewailed  pag:  ^8j. 
lation  J  but  it  neither  cxringui"       The /»/fr/ni/rff  of  the  Saints  m 
{hcth  the  nature  of  man,  nor  th«  their  troubles,  par;i,ca;7,pa:3 1 1 
light  ofrcafoii,  ibid. 

Icy. 

Impatience. 

/•y  in  the  Holy  Ghoft  n  privi- 
/w/><jric««  an  effeft  of  unbeliefe  ledge  accompanying  aflur.ince  of 
par;  a,ca:  i,pag;  20?.  faith,  par: 2,ca:»,pag:»2i. 

Impatience  in  afflidion  proceeds       Daily  exercifc  of  faith  prcfcrves 

from  guiltmcfTe  of  Confcience  &   ^nd  cncrcafethyoy,  pag;  ti  J. 

untamed  paflions,both  wh<h  arc       The  loy  of  a  Chriftian  cxceedes 

"  themirthof  a  worldling,  ibid.  & 

ca;4,pag:  tij.  It  depends  not  on 

his  outward  condition,  pag:  zt6. 

loy  of  the  Saints  here  and  in 

heaven  differ  onely  in  degree  and 

ImpUcite faithwh^t jiind  in  what  manner  of  frmtion,  pag:  1x^,149. 

tcfped  fo  called,  parri, ca:  3 .pag.     /oy  in  God  makes  usdefpife  the 

world, pag:  lit. 

Sec  jf^orld 

Faiih  in  theproniifc  of  life  re- 

joycethinGod,par:»jca:4,p  »7o 

IntribMlations,p3g:i6i,&  C3; 

7,pag'.3  3  J.How  itrejoyceth,p3g 

Faithis-themofl  free,  wiliiug  34J-  .\      .      , 

luppation.  I 


corrcdcd  Isy  faith,par:i,ca;7,pa-. 
m^lmte  faith. 


18. 

Implicite  faith   in  them  who 
know  nothing  is  moft  abfurd,ibid 

Indtt/iry, 


An  A/phAhticafl  Tahfe, 


jufifHcation.  tanacanuut  rc-ily  be  Icpaiaitd, 

or  negatively  cqntidcted  Without 
Iv/lification  is  an  aft  tranlitnt    hope  and  fcliainy,par; » ,ca;4 jp.  5  6- 
6c  in  time jinferringforr.e  change 
iniheperfonjuftifitu,not  phyii-  ■    lu/Hfymg faith.  1 

call,  but  morall  and  in  rcfpe(ft  ef       ;,..,.    > | 

iiatc,p?.r.i3cap:7,P'ig  Sfi-  Itijfifyingfailb  how  d.ftingui-  1 

To  be  juftififdisof  (inners  to    A'Cd  from  Temporary,panijCa.i 
bemadc  juft  AndiighccouSjr-.nbY  .I'^g' 4' 
i5tution  of  holinefle,  bin  by  free       By  ^'flctpbrorcs  thi$y<j«i  is  ex- 
condonation  and  acceptation   of    prcfiid  m  SciipturCjibid. 
giacc,par.a,cap»,pagi!.iS.  Why  called  ;j//?i^tr^,  ibid. 

Faith  in  Chiill  is  before  /ujU-        To  iujiijie  xnox.  the  hill  effcft 

fication  in  order  of  nature:  and  .w-    of  faith  /w//i/j^r,'g,but'thc  priwci-  | 

(i/yica//«nis  precedent  to  the  fcnfc    pall  and  molt  cinuKntjibld.  &  ca'  i 

and  feeling  of  reni:il!on,par:  ij    5jpJgO  ^-j  59.  ) 

ca:  7,  pag:  8^.  '  /tt/Ziiy/w^^ai/^doch  rcceffarily  i 

Hovw  J  ufiiji  eat  ion  is  full  and  en-   require  fanh  hilioricall  before  11.  j 

tircpar.i,cap:8,pag:ic5.  par;i,c3p:»,pagi  6.  | 

Faith;«/?t^ey  notas  an  aft  or       lujfilyir'gjaitb  doth  morccer.  | 

quality,  but  as  it  receivcthChrilt.    tninely  believe  the  Hiftcry,  then  | 

par:i,ca:io,pag:  13  f.  not  by  .my    tbe  faith  called  hilloncall,  par:i,  | 

dignity  or  excellency  of  jt  cwne,    ca:  i ,  pag;  3, 

but  inrcfpeft  oftheflaceand  of-        How  it  may  be  defined,  par;  1, 

fice.which  our  nierciful  God  hath   ca;  iy  pag:  7. 

freely  and  liberally  granted  unto       Of  all  creatures  man  onely  is 

itjpag:  ij8.  '         capable  of  fsving    and  ivfliiyirg 

Theaft  of  faithasit  ;r/7?fj7f/t  failh^^n  i,ca;io,pag.  ijj. 
is  to  receive  the  promife  of  meicy        lufli'yin^  jaiihy-v^hich.  doth  in- 
made  in  Chrift,  and  to  reft  upon    elude  andfuppofcimpcifeftion,  is 
him  for  pardon,  par;  I,  ca:  7, pag:   proper  unto  man  in  this  life,inhis 
8  J,  S8,par.»jca:z,pag:zi8.  journey  towards  hijpcrfcft  home 

^ttjufHyiyg  faith,  and  etcrnall habitation,  ibid. 
lufiifyip^  faith  hath  fundi  y  afts;  The  fubjcft  oUuftifyiny^  faith  is 
One  heaitily  to  dcfirc,  carntftly  man  a  (Inner,  called  accordingto 
to  longaftcr,  hunably  to  intrcatc  thepurpofc  of  <jod  acknowlcd- 
foi;  acceptation,  and  confidently  ging  hisoffcnccSjand  thhltiflg  af- 
to  reft  upon  the  promife  of  free  tcrmcrcy,  pag:-i3^. 
rcmiflion  :  Another  comfortably  Faith  well  rooted  is  commsn 
to  aflure  thst  thst  is  grrntcd,  :o  all,  and  prop«r  to  them  oncly 
which  was  dcfircdandrcceived  in  who  bee  called  according  to  the 
promife, pag:  88.  purpofeofGodjpag:  139. 

Faith  alone  doth  Ja/?ijre,  thstis      In  luftifyivg faith  two  things  arc 

primarily     conKdcred     without    to  be  contidcicd  j  The  common 

hope  or  Charity,ascaufe5  concur-    n3turc,&  the  fpecificall  plantati- 

ring  therewith  in  lujiijicatioH.bMt    on  &  foveraignty  par;i,c?.:4,p  49 

, 7gy?f/_ytr^g 


An  Alphaiieticatt  TaUc,. 


\ 


lu/iifying  faitb  is  conflderctl,  Tha  faith  of  Abraham,  wluch 
cither  accoi  ding  to  its  mo{l  e;ni*  V'-'s  fixed  upon  the  gracious  pro. 
nent  a^,which  1$  tojwy?(^e,or  ac-  "t^c,  did  rulhine  u  felfc  by  the 
cerding  toits  fall  and  adequate  ^onWcianonof  Godspcvvcr^pig, 
ad,  par;i,ca;y,pag;58.  &  par.  2.    7t,7i- 

ca;  z,  pag.  109.  F»iihrcccifeth  the  psrdon  of 

The  ob}cdof ju7iying  faith  is   fin  as  it  is  profcicd  in  the  word  of 
twofold  J  I.  GencraUj  the  whole    grace, par.  i,  ca.  7,  pag.  87. 
truth  of  God  revealed  in  his  Word     Before  the  ad  oUufltfcatid  faith 
2.Spcci.ill,pag:  59.  hath  for  objcS  this  propoUtion 

lu/iaym^jaiih  14  a  particular  &  concerning  the  future  j  To  mc  be- 
ccrtam;  conHdence,  par  1,0.1:7,  Bering  my  (ins  fliUl  be  forgivcnj 
pag  79  that  is,  it  particularly  re-    'b"^- 

licth  upon  the  grace  of  God  in  Je-  No  man  isju/iijitd  by  believing 
fusChrift  to  obtaiRC  pardon  and  himfelfe  tobe  jiift,nor  pardoned 
forgi-vcnefli:.  hy  believing  that  he  is  pardoned,  j 

True  fjith  in  Ghrift  doth  breed    pig-  8  f . 
confidence  and  boldn:fl«,pag:8x.        To  believe  that  I  am  one  df 
expell  utter  dcfperaiion, ibid.  Gods  Elcfl  people,  nnd  thatmy 

To  bclicvc  un  Chnft,  is  tore-  finnes  are  pardoned  and  done  a- 
ccjv«  Ghrift  and  fccdc  upon  him,  way  is  a  privi ledge  of  gracG,gran- 
jbid.  ted  to  him  wliobelievcth,  isfca- 

Faith  is  ccrtainc  in  cvcnt  not  Icdby  thcSpiiic,and  knowethaf- 
Cvcr  in  (cncc,  pag:  8 1.  Aircdly  th^t  he  bclicveth,pag.  8  j. 

/ufiijyift^  faith  is  MwbediemiAll   ^9. 
af]i.incc,con;oyncdwith  offedion       -AlTurance  that  cur  finnes' arc 
ofpiety,  par;i,ca;j,pagtZ4j&ca.'    pardoned  is  concluded  in  a  pra- 
10,  pag.  137,  ^ticall  fyllogifme,  thusj  Hcc  that 

Iv/i iyirgfaith' ckivcth  to  the   truly    bclecvcth  hath     obt.Tincd 
Cbmaiaudcments,  «   neccflary,  j)ardon  of  his  finncs,  par.  86. 
good,flnd\voriliy  td  bee  ftuckc  -    '      '■  Sec  Salvaiton. 

unto,  pag;245&  ca.5,pag:66.  lu/t ifyir.gfaitbannot  be  with 

Sec  Cotanutndtmtfttf.   ODcIovc,and  how  tliat  is  confir 
Hut  ju fit jictb  by  receiving  the  fnetl,par.  i,ca.4,pag  46,47.par,  j, 
giftof  righcccufncSe,  whuiiisby  ca.  < ,  pag.^7i, 
the  merit  of  ?efiiS  Ch«ift,par:  i,ca;  '    The  huh  •  hat  /u/lifielb  is  livc- 
4,  pag:  41.  .Iyaniopcrauvc,p3i-.i,ca.  8,p3g. 

Fauh  fceketh  not  lift  and  fal-  1 14- 
yationinthc  thrcatnings,  prohi-  Dead  faith  is  unavailcable  to 
bitions,  or  Co-nm.inJcmentsjbut  lufiifuation^-x^  ineft'cduall  to  fea- 
rcfteth  upon  thcTvrcmifes  of  mcr-  ioi\  the  affcftions  throughout,  & 
cyinJerusGhrift,parn,ca6,pag.  incite- to  unifonnc  adi  of  love. 
70,7,.  -    •    i      par.  I,  ca.  4,  pig.  4 ^  ; 

I'nwhJtffeiifcweevcad  thd  be'  The  cffe As  .  and  bcnchis  of 
liefc  of  a  tcmporaiy  promifc  was  /itjli}i>gfuitb,yiv.  i,ca.io,p.-^. 
accounted  fotri^Hteourncflcjibid,    13  f,  131,  13?..     -,    •■         • 

°  Sundry, 


An  AlphMieticaU  Tdble, 


Sundi  y  effeds  of  Jufii^yin^  faith  fiii«ncc,ai\d  fo  put  for  confidence . 

par.  i.ca,i.pag.4.&ca.4.  pag.4a.  par.i.ca^io^jag.ij^ 

45.ptr.z.ca.  i.pag.196.197.  Faith  includes  the  compleate  & 

Tke  benefits  and  fruits  of  tWs  prafiicall  I^HOtvledge  of  good  and 

faith  be  found,  comfortable  and  evilli  par.  ».  ca.  9.  pag.  380. 


enduring,  pir.  i.ca.  iD.fag.i^4 
Faith  is  a  caufe  onely  inftru- 
mentall,aftd  that  is  attributed  to 
it  which  the  principall  caufe  wor- 
keth.  pag.  1 3  j. 


The  linortledge  of  that  which  is  \ 


not  revealed  faith  utterly  repels, 
pag.  17. 

Faith  is  the  caufc  of  more  am- 
ple /^Hoar/c/^f . ibid,&  cap.  lo.pag. 

K.  Wee  \now  not   many  things 

which  we  ihould,  nothing  as  wee 
l^ingdmetfGod.  -iliould,  pag.  1(41, 

Words  of  f^owUJge  doe  togc- 
Manybeeiof  the  Kingdome  of  thcr  by  connotation  imply  afteiti- 
GO(/inprotcflion,  which  be  not   onpag.  1J9. 
fo  in  Eledion,  par.  i.ca,  4.  pag.     .  Appetite  followes  f^wleJge. 
j^.  53.  par.  a.ca.  a.pag.  114. 

Thofc  who  know  God  beft, 
J^tmnleJge,  truft  him  belt,  pag,  141. 

Faith    ftckcth     acquaintance 
/^n«>r/f<^fl  is  twofoldjOf  reafon  with  God,  ard  the  i^iumltiige  of 
Of  rcvelationjpar.  i.ca. 3*  pag,  x  j.   hiS  will  in  Jcfus ChriA,par. i.cap 


par.  X.  I 


ca.2«pa2. 212, 


Faith  put  fort  Cbnfti an  Knatpm 
ledge,  par.  1  .ca.  i.pag.i.5. 

Things  neccffary  to  he  knownc 
cannot  be  apprehended  without 
faith,  pag.  t. 

It  is  inrpofliblc  for  a  man  to  be- 
.li»\'C  that  whereof  he  ,hath  no 

Jufttfying  faith  prefuppofcth 
the  h^nowledge  of  GocUand  Chrift, 
ofthe  precepts  and  tl»e  proraifcs 
of  the  Gofpelljpar.  i.ca.  3.  pag. 
If 


JO,  pag.  40  J. 


L. 


Law. 


The  Lam  is  the  rule  of  obedi- 
ence, according  to  which  people 
in  covenant  ought  to  walke.par ; 
I.ca.  8.  pag.  115. 

S fir  ituaU  Life. 

l^o§irlmaU  life  in  us  before  the'. 
Knowledge  concurts  to  the  being    infulion  of  grace. par.  Kca.  z.  pag. 
of  faith,  pag.  1-6.  f. 

Thc^«owfe<]^.eoffaithmuftbc  Life'n  primarily  and  properly 
diftinft,  found^andcertaiae,pag.  by  Chrift,  fccondarily  by  faith. 
I7»  par.  2.  ca.  i.pag.  194- 195. 

K/toivledgefut  for  faith,  pag.  Faith  is  thci//tf  of  our  foules, 
If.  the  Word  the  /i/e  of  faith,  pag. 

Kfiowltdgc  it  the  ground  «f  con-    1 98, 

The 


Ah  AlphdhttcMUTable, 


The  life  of  grace  is  the  begin-   pag.2  j  J,i55,z5^,x65,i64ja66 
Bing  of  the  lite  of  glory,  they  arc   267. 

one  in  fubftancc,  dift'er  onely  m       Faith  in  the  promifes  of  ever- 
dc^ree$,par.»,ca;4,pa.  249,  zjj.  laftiMglift  will  moderate  defircs 

ofthcthingsof  this  life,  will  not 
diftruft   the  Lord  for  fupply  of 
them,  pag.  1^1,170,  271. 
Faith  in  the   promifc*  of  lift 


zj'5,zj^. 


EternaUtife. 


earncltly  dcfircs  and  longj  after 
God  hath  made  promifc  of /J/e  the    full  foflcffion    of  it;  pag, 
evcrlafting  to  be  conferred  upon    i^6. 

them  that  believe ,  par.  t,  ca:  4       Meanes  to  flirre  up  faith  in  be- 
pa.  248,  »49.  lieving  the  promifes  of  life,  pag. 

The  promife  o(Ufe  1$  ccrtaine,  %6i,  z6i,  a^j,  Sec. 
pag. 2*7. 

Chn ft  hath  purchafed  t^e  cYcr-  living  fy faith. 

lafting  for  us,  pag.  149. 

£/er«<j// /(/>  is  giren  of  grace  for       In  what  fenfe  we  are  fai<l    to 
Chnft  embraced  or  relied  up©n   /itr*>/4iV&,par.  2,  ca,  ijpa.if4. 
by  faith,  par.   1,   cap.  6»  pag.    i#j.  ftc 
7^.  Whatiti$toftwi^V/aiV*,  pag. 

When  firft  wc  belecvc  then  are    ifJi  198. 
wee  intituled  to  etern^ll  UJtj  pa.       To  live  iy  faith  neceffary,  pag. 

Li/c  e^woa/l  i»  then  began  in  us       Two  things  to  be  done  tbat 
whenwc  bclictc,  pag.  149,  ij|,  >^«  might /tvc *> /ar/i,  paj.  298. 

268.  ^^' 

Eternall  lift  already  begun  in  Man  livtth  ly  faitb   aUnc, 

every  believer  wcakc  and  ftrong:  though    is    be   not  alone  ,  par. 

par.  ijca  xo.  pa.  146.  «-"P-  J-P'g- 19^-  &  cap.  2.pag. 

Everlafting  IJ/«  is  freely  ofFc-  »". 

red  but  men  arc  not  left  at  liber-  A  Chnftian  1$  to  live  by  faith 

tyvvhciherthey  will  receive  and  alltbc  dayesofhij  life.  pag.  aaj. 

feeke  it  or  no,  par.  a,  cap.  4,  pa.  a  ^4-  »«  ?. 

^g_  Tht  Ufe  of fattb  IS  molt  excel- 

It  is  neceffary  wee  fhould  live  lent  and  comfortable,  p.  41  y. 

by  faith  touching  the  promifes  of  The  necefliry  and  precioufneiTe 

life  pa  i?t     is»-  of/arVi fecne  will  make  a  man 

EttTMlllife  is  the  onely  true  carefuU  to/iv«byit,par.  ».cap,i. 

I'f           «sS  P-^S*  207* 

The  aas  *©f  faith  concerning  The  lif$ which  the  faithfull  live 

the  promifes  of  everlafling  life,  by  faith  in  Chrift  is  cvcrlalhng, 

pa.»5».  M  J,  &c.  par.  i.  ca.  5.  pag.  276. 

By  faith  wc  feeke  evidence,  get  Meanes  to  ftirrc  up  our  fclvcs 

aflurance,and  Ubcur  the  poQef-  to  live  by  jaith,  pag.  20a.  aoj. 

\fion   of  Ufe    more    and   more.  104.  &c. 


Ah  AlphahticaHTdhtf, 


How  we  are  cj  uve  byjaitb  in  unto  u  t  faicli  is  cffcCtmll  by /avc, 

pirticuUr  touching  the  proinifcs  as  a  priaiary  mcane,  whereby  it 

ofpirdonandforgtvencfl'ej  par.i,  doth  produce   other  cftefts,   not 

ca.i,  ofSan^ificatioii,ca.j,  Ofc-  as  by  it  beginning,    pag,  41,  & 

vcrhftmg  life,  ca.4,   ofperfeye.  44,45 


rmcCjC.j,  in  temptations^ce,  in 
times  of  adverfity,  ca.7,  Touch- 
ing the  pioniifcs  of  c.uthly  b!cf- 
fin'^SjCi.SjThccommandeiTientj, 
ca.9j  The  wofkes  of  our  calling, 
ct.io,  Gods  Ordinances,  ca.  1 1, 
and  threatnings,  ca.i  z. 


Hovt  faith   dotk   beget  bvCy 
and  the  afts  of  charity  are  faid  I 
to  b:.  done  of  faith,    pag.  45. 

It  inciteth  to  the  workc,  ani- 
miteththcaft,  and  cnlargeth  the 
aff«:(5tionsto  the  fcverall  branches 


The/i/e  of  faith  {hall  end  i:\  joy    of /ave,  pi.41,46, 
and  comfort,    par.i,  ca.ia,  pag.       It  is  not   pofiible  for  a  man 
416,417.  truly  to  know  and  embrace  the 

Heethat  Uveth  by  faith ,  ilull    chicfeft  good,  and  yet  to  with- 
"    '    ■    "  '  '  hold  a  flection  from  the /ave  of  it, 

pa,46. 

Perfe^  faith  brccdeth  perfcft 
Isve,  and  the  Icaft  degree  of 
faith,  feme  degtcc  of/ore,pa.  50, 
par.i,ca,io,pa.i  jj. 

Faith    fires   the    heart    with 


alfo  die  in  faith,  pa.4 1;. 
Love  of  God. 


Goiis  love  itfelfc,  and  from 

/•x/e  piocecdeth  every  courfe  hec        ^ ...^„   ^.._    — 

pafleth  upon  u5,as  well  that  of  ad-  an  indefatigable  and  unrjucnch- 

vcrfitie,  asthcotherofprofpcrity,  able/ovc,  that  in  companfon  of 

par  2,ca.73pa  5x5.  obedience    it    contemneth    the 

How  his  love  doth  fpecially  ap-  whole  woild,  par. i,  cap, 9,  pag. 


pearc  incorreftinguSjibid. 

The  love  which  God  bcarcth 
Hnto  his  people  is  an  cverlafting 
lovcj  par,?,  ca,4,  pa.^7  2, 


Love. 


389. 

Love  or  chiritie  cannot  ac- 
cept of,  or  obtaine  the  promi- 
fes  of  mercy,     paf.i,  cap.4,  pag. 

Being  now  in  friendfh'p  with 
Chrift,  our  Zoi;c  may  give  us  en- 
couragement and  comfort  to 
make  ufc  to  our  fcl  vcs  of  that  that 
Faith govcrn«th charity,  par.i,  ishis.ibid. 

The  aft  o(  love  it  done  by 
ifluc  or  p.ifling  from  him  that  lo- 
veth  to  the  thmg  that  is  lovedt 
ibid. 

To  love  is  more  then  to  believe, 
bccaufe  it  neceflarily  includes  be- 
liefe,  pa.4Z. 

Love   cxcells  faith,    if  wee 


lca.4,pag4i 

!      Chanty  is  obedient  to  faich, 

!  ibid. 

\      The  aft  of  love  hath  no  priori- 

j  ty  to  bcliefe,  bat  follovves  after 

I  it,  and  is  quickened  by  it,  pag. 

Love  is  a  grace  without  the  bc- 


j  ing  of  faith,  though  conjoyned   rcfpcft  latitude    of  ufc  ,     and 


length 


Ah  AlphAhticallTaffle, 


of  time  or  Continuance  :  But  till    us  to  the  pradife  of  hshncITe  par. 
fajth  have  finiflied  our  falvation,    a,  ca  4,  pa.»6i. 


/ovcmuft  yecld  to  faith,  pag.^?, 
45- 


M. 
Meatt  &  Dr'mkt. 

FRcc  ufe  of  the  creatures  is  rc- 
ftord  by  Chnft  to  the  adop* 


Faith  caufeth  ferioui  and  at- 
tentive mtJitation  upon  the  Word 
of  God,  that  it  may  (inkedcepe, 
and  abide  firme  in  the  heart,  par. 
i,ca.9,pa.58i. 

The  good  things  of  this  life 
liavc  great  force  to  lift  up  the 
btlievingfoule  to  commune  with 
the  Lord.    par.»,cap.8,pag.j6i, 
ted  fonnesof  God,   par.  2,  ca.  4.   364. 
pa.ijS.&ca.Sjpag.jdj.  Profrcrity  is   the   fitteft   fca- 

Bread  nourilhcth,  wh«n  it  is   fon  for  heavenly  contemplation, 
Gods  hand  or  meancs  to  conferre    ibid. 
ftrength,  but  the  bicfling  is  not 

in  the  creature  ,   it  conies  from  Meel^nejfc.  ^: ' 

above,   par.  2,  cap.  I,  pag  3^0, 

[  364.  Faith  metJieneth  i\\c  heart  wil- 

Howtolive  by  faith  in  the  ufc    lingly  to  fubmic  it  fclfc   to  the 

of  Afeare  and  Z)rm^e,    pag.  163,   good  pleafure  of  God,  andpati- 

I  «4,&c.  ently  to  bcarc  his  correSion,  par. 

»,  ca.7,  pa.giijjii.  ca.j,  pag. 
Mciitation.  143. 

By  what  confiderations  faith 
To  confidcr  whom  wee  truft,    pcrfwades  to    metf^enejfe   under 
and  to  meditatt  on  hisfaithfull-    Godshand,pa.ji»,3 23,3 24,32 j« 
ncfle,  mercy,  and  power,  is  a  fpe-    3  »5. 
ciall  meancs  for  the  right  plan- 
tation  of  faith  3     and    a  good 
encouragement  to  live  by  faith, 
par.  2,   cap.  i,   pag,  207,  ao8. 
pa.  I,     cap.     II,     page.    ij<,. 

My- 
itis very  ncedfull  againe  and 

againe  to    confider  what  excel- 
lent things  are  promifcd ,    and 


Merit. 

Pardon  is  not  promifcd  for  any 
mtrit  in  us,  par.  2,  cap.  1,  pag. 
a  10. 

The  wife  Merchant  felleth  all 
that  hee  hath,  not  that  wee  can 
thereby  merit  pardon,  but  that  fo 


raife  the   heart  to  an  high  pri-    vvee  may  bee  capable  of  pardon, 
ling  and  valuation  of  them,  pag,  pa.  216. 

Meditation  of  the  benefit  of 
pardon  of  finnc  a  meanes  to  pic- 
ferve  dclire  of  pardon,  par.a,ca.  i, 

Meiitatiin  of  Gods  fingular 
poodneffe  towards  us,  conttraines 


Sec  JVtr\es. 

MiraculoM  faith' 

O^Miracttlouifaitiyf^r.ijCi.  i, 
pa.  J. 

Taith  Miraculouii   aftive  and 
Hhx  paflive. 


Ah  Alphabet icaSTdifle, 


pafiive,  ibid.  ochcr,ibid.  8c  par.ii  cap.6)pag. 

Taith  Miraculoiu  and  ordinary,    78. 
not  diverfc  graces,  but  the  fame        The  believer  knowcs  htmrdfe 
grace  exercifed  about  diverfe  ob>   bound  to  the   tbediencc   of  the 
jcfts,  pag.3,4.  &  cap.4,pag.48,   Gofpcll  though  he  bee  freed  from 
49.  the  damnation  of  the  law,  par.  a, 

Paith  Miraculdus  is  a  gift  of  ca.5,pa.278. 
the  Spuit,    pir.  I,  cap.  4,   pjg.        The  otciifwce  which  faith  pro- I 
47.   and  confidence  jn  th«  ex-    duceth,  is  intirc  in  the  branches  ! 
traordinarie  promifes  of   God,    ofobedience^  par,  i,  cnp.  ^,  pag. 
ibid.  68 .  Vniforme  and  conftant,  pag. 

69,70. 

Faith  in  the  promifes  carieth  a 

man  forward  in  obedience  to  the 

way  of  the  promifes,  par.x,ca.i, 

pa»ioi. 

TWokindsof»«cc//}f«,  par.  t.       According    to    our    ftrength 
ca.  I ,  pa.  z,  of  faith,    the    lively  fruits   of 

holy  Qbedience  fhall  bee  found 

in  us,    part,  i,  cap.    11,  pag. 

160. 

Negligence  in  performing  holy       Afliirancc  of  forgirettcflc  can- 

duties,   an   eflPea  of  unbeliefe,  not  bee    greater    then  care    of 


N. 

Necejfttie. 

•Wokindsof»«cc//}f«,  par.  tj 
ca.i,  pa,  2. 

Negligence. 


par.2,  €a.i,pa.aof. 

O. 

Obedience. 


par.  2,  csp.  9.    pag. 


$bedieHce, 

371- 

The  better  any  man  labourcth 
in  faith,  the  more  diligent  hec  is 
in  the  fciyice  of  God,  and  workci- 
cfmercie,    par.  2,  cap.  10.  p^g. 


396, 

Ordinary  failing  in  the  pra- 
Aicc  of  holy  duties  ,"  and  due 
ordering  of  our  a&ldions,  can- 
not be  without  a  precedent  efFeft 
offaith,  which  oncly  can  firmely 


THe  Lord   calls  for  willing , 
chearefuU,  univorfall,  unfai- 

ned,conftantok<//McCjpai-.2jca.9, 
pa. 368. 

Vpright,    unfaincd    obedience 
is  imperfeft.    part,   i, 
pag.  113,  pai-.  2,   cnp 

^  ^,      r   ,.  r  t     n    . .  Partiall  obedience  >    an   effect 

The  ok^:e«fe  of  the  faithfull  of  unbeliefe.  par.  i,  cap.  i,  pag. 

isweakeaiidimperfea.   but  plea-    20  j  >     r*   »  r  o 

Cng  and   acceptable  unto  God, 

P^-?^dj?7o. 

The  faithfull  foulc  may  find 

It  felfe  more  pione  to  forac  one 

finne  then  to  another;    and  more   h.ith  promifed'in  coremnt,  ibid. 

dull  to  iomc  good  duties  then   to  this  eivd  the  Spirit  of  grace 


cap.    8,   unite  us  unto  Chrift,par.i,ca,Ji^ 
93  pag.  pa.  159. 


Chriftians  are  allowed  to  be- 
lieve, that  God  will  enable 
them  to  walkeino^eiiewce,  p^r- 
2,  ca.  9,  pa.  574.     ForthisGod 


is 


An   Af^habeticallTahle, 


is  given,  ibid.  The  Saiots  l?avc 
begged  it  m  prayer.  5 75'.  and 
in  aflurance  of  divine  aflillance 
have  bound  themfclves  by  cove- 
nant to  keep  the  righteous  iudgc- 
mcnts  of  the  Lord.ibid. 

The  ads  of  faith  touching  ote- 
dience  requircd.pai.i.cap.  9.  pag. 
376.57  7.&C. 

Meancs  ro  quicken  our  felvcs 
to  thcchcaicfull  practice  of  thofe 
duties,  whercunto  we«  find  our 
fclucs  dull  and  llujgifh  pag.383. 
584.&C. 

Ordinances. Set  ff^ordSc 
Satramtnts. 


Chrifiian  Parent!. 

THe  Children  of  believing  pa- 
rent!  by  naturall  generation 
are  defiled wuh  finne,  but  they 
arc  holy  by  covenant  and  free  ac- 
ceptation, par,  1.  cap,  1 1 ,  pag, 
408  . 

The  children  oiChriflian  fa- 
rents  they  are  within  the  Cove- 
nant for  i\\cir parent s  faith.par.i. 
<:a.io.pag.i40 
The  faith  ofthc^tfrpwwdoth  ap- 
prehend the  promife  of  the  cove- 
nant for  himftlfe  and  for  his  feed 
pag.408. 

It  is  an  high  and  incomprehen- 
lible  mcrrVjth.itGodis  pleafcd  to 
bee  the  God  of  the  faithftill  and 
their  fe?d  pag  409. 

Chriftian  parents  are  greatly  to 

reioycc  in  thiSjthatGv>d  in  tender 

i  coip.paflion  is  ple^fed  thus  to  ad- 

I  yancG  and  hoHour  thcra  and.  their 

Ipnflcriry  ibid. 
Hee  that  would  give  his  child 


unto  God  muft  give  himfelfe  fiift 
pag.498. 

Gods  promife  to  accept  our 
children,  calleth  for  prayer  and 
fupplication  on  our  part .  that  he 
VN'oiild  be  pleafcd  to  make  good 
his  mercifull  and  free  promife.  ib- 

This  rich  mercy  of  God  (hould 
ftirrc  yf  parents  to  be  carefull  and 
diligent  to  bring  vp  their  children 
jn  informrition  and  feare  of  the 
L0rd.pag.4i0, 

Pa^ms. 

Vn tamed  P4j/?Mf  which  caufe 
unquictneffe  in  affcdion  are  cor- 
reftcd  by  faith,  par.i.  cap.  7,  pag. 

PaJfiOHS  arc  not  fo  bridled  as  not 
to  ftiire  and  rcfifl  the  worke  of 
faith,  but  that  they  ihall  not 
raigne.par.zcap9.pag.j77. 

Patience* 

Faith  acknowledging  Gods 
hand  in  affliQions  teacheth  patL 
ently  to  beare  his  corre^ion.  par. 
2,cap.7.p3g.3Zo.jn.jii.j23.& 
cap.io-pag  394. 

Without  confidence  in  God 
there  can  be  no  filent  and  quiet 
expectation  of  faluation  in  times 
of  afflidion.  par.  z.  cap,  7.  pag. 

3.^. 

The  reward  of  the  patient  fuf- 
feringof  the  Marry  rs  was  both 
rcnowne  here,  and  that  fanemoft 
excellent  weight  of  glory  hereaf- 
ter .png.  3 16. 1*7. 

Peace. 

Peace  with  God,and  liable  tran- 

quilitic  or  calmeneflc  of  mind, 

Hhi      _- 


Am  AlphMbetkall  T^ble, 


a  prerogative  accompanying  aflu- 
rance  ot  faith  in  tlic  prom;fe.par, 
2.ca:t.pa.'Z2p. 

That  pedce  way  bee  prcfcrved , 
faith  mult  be  renewed  daily  p.ig, 

Pe^ceofConfciencejIoyin  the 
HolyGheft^and  Sanftifi cation  of 
the  Spirit  here ,  are  beginnings  of 
glory  hcreafter.pa-;  i  J .  z f 6.  As 
thefc  increafe ,  tlie  polleffijn  of 
glory  increafeth.  ibid.    &  pag. 

Faith  in  the  promife  of  perfc- 
verancc  neceffary  to  found  and 
fuUpeace  par.z.ca;j.pa,  179, 


Ferfeveranct, 

God  hath  made  many  promi- 
fes  oiperfiverance.  par. z.ca.  j :pa . 

It  is  ncceflary  that  the  faith- 
full  fliould  ferioufly  learne  and 
think  upon  thtfe  promifes^  that 
they  might  be  fetled  in  believin<y 
their />er/everd»ce,pag:  277,  xji*^ 
Z79' 

The  godly  are  allowed  to  be- 
lieve theirper/evera««.pag,-  z8o, 
x8i. 

The  afls  of  faith  concerning 
perfeveranee.  pag;  281, 183, 184. 
&c. 

Faith  giveth  aflurancc  ofperfe- 
verancey3sit  doth  of  the  pardon 
offinne.pai286. 

Affurancc  of  not  falling  away 
can  open  no  gap  to  licentioufnes 
orfectirityinfiane.  par/  a.  cap.c. 
pag:278,  "^  ^  ' 

Faith  for  a  time  may  fall  a- 

flecpc,  but  it  will  awake  and  re- 

new  it  indeavours  with   more 

I  life  and  vigour,  pag;  178. 284.  & 


Mcanes  to  ftirrc  up  our  felyes  to 
believe  the  promifes  of  perfevC' 
ra«<;e.pag;i87,x8S. 


Trayzu 

Pantings  and  breathings  after 
the  confolations  of  the  Lord  arc 
undoubted  tokens  of  the  new 
birth  par.  i.cap;  ia.pag.i6^. 

trayer  is  an  aft  of  the  Spirit, 
and  the  Spirit  js  obtained  by 
/»r<jyer  par:  I.cap.  2.pag;  8. 

Faith  IS  the  mother  of  Prayer 
and  prayer  a  means  of  the  incteafc 
oftaicli.  pag;  ij. 

Prayer  is  nothing  elfc  but  the 
ftreame  or  river  of  faith,  par.  i. 
ca.S.pa;  105-, 

Faith  comef  to  Chrifl  as  an 
humble  penitent  petitioner  .par- 1, 
ca.  i©.pa;ij6. 

Faith  obta-neth  as  a  poorc  pe- 
titioner what  the  Lord  promifeth 
in  fpeciall  favour,  p^r  2.ca.  3,  pa. 
147-  .     ' 

Tairh  ftirreth  up  to  pray  w'th- 
out  djftroflfull,  fruitlefle,  excef- 
five  care.  par.  2.  cap.  8,  pag. 
358. 

Whatwc  are  taught  to  begge 
in;)rflj/£r,that  we  are  allowed  to 
believe  we  fliall  obtaine  of  frefc 
grace,  par.-z.ca.j.pag.ijp,  &  cap. 
5.pa;2  8i. 

The  firmer  our  faith,the  better 
fuccefTe  doe  we  find  in  prayer,  par. 
l.ca:io.pa:i49. 

The  wicked  crie  and  call  in 
fearebut  not  in  faith.par,- 1.  ca.4. 

Gnc  branch  of  living  by  faith 
ispr^yer  par.x.ca.i.pa  101.  And 
Prayer  is  a  meanes  to  ftirre  up  tp 
lire  by  f aith.pa;  2o8^«9. 

What  is  to  hzcpraytd  for,that 
wee 


An  AifhahticallTabU, 


we  may  live  by  tatth  ibid. 

Faith  fccking  pardon  cf  Gnnc 
ftirres  up  to  frayer  for  pardori 
ihiout,h  the  mediation  of  Chrifl 
par  x.ca:%pa:ii7.ijj. 

The  piomifes  of  pardon  to  him 
that  pmyetb.  pa.  2 1 7.  i  1 8. 

Ht  m^y pray  in  fdith  that  wants 
aflurancc  of  pardon  ibid, 

Itis  lawfiill  in  fome  regard  to 
cnvc  pirdon,  when  it  is  already 
granted,  and  believed  fo  to  bee 
pani.ca  8,pa:ioi. 

Confidence  and  prayer  Goii 
h-^th  ioyned  together  pa:  1  o:^, 

Wc  muft  pray  both  for  faith 
that  we  may  believe  pardon,  and 
the  fight  of  our  faith,  that  wee 
may  know  we  believe  it.par:*. 
ca:5  pa.ijf.tjtf. 

By  faith  the  children  of  God, 
feeing  in  God  wh.nfoever  they 
need  or  d«fire,wiU  never  c'eafe  to 
fecke  relitfe  hy  fr oyer- fit: t,  ca;4. 
pa.26». 

Wc  muft^r^inftantlv  for  fan^ 
ftifyinu  graef*  par  i.ca;  }.  pig. 
239.  Whirh  i(afn«anritu  aui&> 
ken  us  to  believe  the  frotfiue  of 
SanAification,pa:247. 

Faith  in  the  prcmife  ofpcrfc- 
vcrance  caufcth  ta  fray  infijntly 
that  God  would  uphold  ui,  and 
make  us  fee  that  he  will  uphold 
us. par. a. cap.  5.  pag.  183.  2F9 
290. 

Faith  as  3n  humble  petitioner 
reccireth  the  pronr.ifc  of  Jifc,  and 
gives  ^fTurancc  of  what  is  recei- 
ved as  ixpraj/ethy^ax:  >.  ca:  4.  pag 

In  tcnaptation  wc  muft  pray 
par.i.  cap;    5.  pag;  3»?,  3«<J. 

310. 

Faith  wrappeth  aU  giiefes  and 
cares  togethei^ind    powictn  them 


forth  before  the  Lord  par.  i  ca; 

In  afliuiions  raith  will  neither 
fret  or  murmurc  ,  nor  yet  grow 
fecure  ,  Lut  Hi  rv  s  up  to  (ccke  unto 
God  hy  prayer  both  for  the  benefit 
and  fruit  of  nilr.iint ,  aud  for  the 
comfort  of  frecdome  .'»nd  delive* 
rancc.par.  z  ca;  7,  pa;  328,  jzj. 

j39iM».U?a'44,  34^ 

Frith  prayeih  as  eaTK-ftly  for 
the  TanAihcation  of  p.olpcrity, 
and  Gods  blrflini^  upon  the 
meanes,asfor  the  meanes  thcm- 
fclvesifthey  were  wanting,  par 
S.ca.8.pa  368,364. 

Faith  ihrrcth  up  earneft  ,  con. 
ftant  and  hearty  prt^er  to  bee 
taught  in  the  Law.  par:  z.  ca.  9, 
pa:38i. 

It  quickcneth  the  moft  skil- 
ful! workman  to  ftrive  with  God 
in  prayer jthat  the  work  he  fettcth 
upon  may  fucceed  well  and  prof. 
per.par.2.ca:io.pa:sfo. 

1  he  fjithfull  have  promifcd 
therafelves  helpe  in  diftrcfle,  and 
(onfidcBtly  begged  aid,  becaufe 
they  truftcd  in  the  Lord. par u.ca. 
7.pa.-3»9,3»0' 

PreJuMptiiM. 

It  is  not prefumpti»H yhvt  true  o- 
hcdiencc  to  believe  whatfoever 
God  b  th  pronaifed,  par;  %  ca:j, 
pag,t|8  ca:2.pag:s3f.234.  &ca. 
6.293* 

Pridt. 

TriJe  the  daughter  of  corrupti- 
on,not  of  filiall  confidcncc.pai:i. 
cap. 8. pa. 1 1  z. 


Hh4  fr»Mf/2f| 


Ah  AlfhAbetkall  T^hU, 


Fremifes. 

^ypremifes  imderftaRd  al  thofc 
declarations  of  Gods  will,where- 
in  he  (igmfies  ia  the  GufpcU  wlut 
good  he  will  freely  bcftoiv.par.z. 
cap.x  pa:209. 

Promlfes  dmz  fpeciall  and  fin- 
gular,  others  generall  and  com. 
mon  par.-i.cap.  i.pa;  3.  Direct  & 
by  confequenc.  par;  a.  cap:  i.  pa; 

ICJ^jlOO. 

The  generall  and  common  pro  • 
mifes  concerning  life  jindlaivati- 
on,more  excellent  then  the  fpeci- 
all and  fingular  pTomifes  concer- 
ning working  of  miracles,  pa;4. 

Vromifes  are  either  fpirituall  or 
temporall.par;  2.  cap.  i^pa:  lo^. 
Concerning  this  life  or  the  life  to 
come. ibid. 

Of  things  (Imply  neccfTary  to 
falva-tion,  or  of  things  good  in 
themfel  ves,  but  nor  alwaies  good 
for  us.par;i.ca:  j.  pa:  6 1,  6i,  63. 

par:2.ca:l  pB;2ogj2IO, 

What  favour  God  hath  fhewcd 
vnto  any  of  his  children  accordinr> 
topremife  &covenant  ofgrace,the 
fame  may  all  that  be  in  covenant 
with  him  expea  &  looke  for.par. 
a.ca:i.pa:i99j2oo  ca.y.pa:  »>» 

Allthefaithfullasfauhfull,bc 
partners  in  the  fame  priv'ilcdoes 
and  promifts ,  and  live  by  tlie 
f3mcfaith.pai:j.ca:?.pa:2j^. 

What  promifci  ibevcr  concer- 
ning life  and  happines  were  made 
to  the  Apoftles,  the  fame  wcr« 
made  to  all  believers  and  confir- 
med &  fcaled  unto  them  after  the 
fame  manner,  pa.i  ca:4.pa;  257. 

What  one  believed  upon  com' 
mon  Scordinary  grounds,  that  is 
the    pnviledge   of  all   believers 
which  they  are  ailowed  to  receive 
"py,pa.28i 


Th^paa^rfc  of  the  godly,  who 
have  lived  by  faith  in    time   of 
troublcjis  both  a  token  of  dyr  pri- 
viledge,and  a  patterne  of  eur  duty 
cap;7.pa.j  i8.  ' 

Whenfoever  we  find  that  any  of 
Gods  people  have  praye  d  for  any 
good  thing  &  iiave  been  heard,  if 
it  were  not  by  fpeciall  prero^ati  e 
peculiar  to  them, we  may  take  ft  as 
a^ro,>«i/ctt>us.par.i.ca  i.pa;  i^j 

As  tor  extraoidiijaiy  favours  or 
deliverances  ^rantc^  unto  fome 
perfens  by  fpeciall  pr  viledge,  we 
cannot /jroMf/e  ourfclvcs  the  fame 
in  particular  from  their  example : 
but  as  fuch  peculiar  mercies  imply 
a  common  ground  or  reafon,thcy 
are  unto  us  arguments  of  cofort  & 
cncouragement.par  a  ca;i,p;2©o. 

The  word  of promife  doth  not 
only  containe  truch^but  offer  good 
unto  us.par;i.c3p:io.pa;i?7' 

To  heipe  ourweaknesthe  Lord 
gccth  Over  one  &  the  fame  thing 
againe  &againe.par:  i.c  8.p:  130 

The  promife!  are  not  only  made 
to  them  that  believe  alrcad/e,  but 
are  freely  offered  as  grounds  and 
foundations  that  wee  might  bc- 
Iievc.par:2.ca:i.p:jii^n^,  2;i. 
Promifes  both  temporall  &  fpiri- 
tuall  are  received  by  taith,as  they 
areptomifedofCod  either  with 
or  without  limitation  p«-:2.  c.  i 
p3:2io.  '   ' 

All  the proraifet  of  God  be  furc 
in  themfelvcsjcertaiae  to  the  Bc- 
Ijcver.par  i.ca.^.pa:^2. 

The  ferious  meditation  of  Gods 
frec,gratious  and  faithfull  prom- 
fes  reiterated  againe  and  againe,is 
availeable  to  ftrengthca  ,  faith 
par:i.ca:n.pa;i6i. 

When  we  wat.the  fence  ofGods 

Iove,we  muft  believe  his  word  & 

^ro^- 


An  ACfhabeticall  Tabic, 


prmift,  par.i,  ca.2,  p.i.  zj  y,z  j  6.  our,  that  hell  gates  flisllndt  pre- 

The^row/ef  ofGod  concerning  va;Ic  againft  his  faithroll  people 

JuftificatioiianciSandificationar^  P-i.*??.  &  Ci.7j  pacrji,-.             * 

fo  linked  together,  that  whofoe-  " 

ver  believes  not  both,  cannot  be-  Purpofcs. 

lievc  the  one,par.i,c.?,p.24o.i4i        wiu  j 

-TL  ■/    f-    /'r-'-f^j^y        Why  many  oood  p8rfi9/ec  never 

Theftrow/erofGodrecci/edbv  r,^,„^  L       I  Z'" /'■V^*^  "=^vci 

r    1  1  -^   •  I        r    Xf    VV^  come  to  pcrtormancc.  pjr.i,ca  J. 

fa  th  a.e  the  iichcsofaChijftian  01241^42  ' 

tefupplyhiswants.&hiscartlcof  ""'*•»■*• 

defence  in  tune  of  dan 'cr,  par  2  »  /     ^x- 

=  ^  ^     ^'  Redemption. 

lUvc  cleave  not  to  thepr9w(/ef       The  vvorkc  of  redemption  rc- 
of  God     concerning    temporall    "i^ines  proper  to  Chrift  :    but  the 
thingSjWe  fiiad  adhere  to  thc/>ro-    benefit  of  his  death  is  communi.  j 
wi/cy  of  life  with  leffc  aflurancc,   cated  to  every  member  of  liis  my- J 

fticall  body, par.  i,ca.7,pa  8  t.       j 
/     Ktdemption  by  Chnrt  is  both 
prctioiis  andplentifull,  part  i.ca. 


par.2,  ca.8,pa.jyi,jy2. 
Frojperitj/, 


To  hope  for  bleffed  and  good 
fiiccefle  in  an  evill  courfeij  pal- 


n,pa.X52. 


Rcmijfien. 


pableand  grofle  Idolatry,  par.2, 
ca.8,pa.3j5.  God  of  his  rich  grace  and  mercy 

God  is  fpccially  to  be  feryed   '"  Jcfus  Chrift  hath  made  offer 
in  the  daies  of  prosperity,  pa  3  5  9.    of  tree  and  full  forgivenefle  of  iin 
Frofperity  is  pkahng,  but  dan-   to  every  burdened ,  penitent,  and 
^crous  i  which  makes  the  waking   thirfl  e  foule,    par.a,  C3,2,  pag. 
believer  jealous  of  himfeUe,  and    2.10. 

watchfuil  over  his  heaitjpag  561.  RemiJJion  of  finsin  and  through 
Faith  feafoneth  profperity,par.  Jefus  Chrift  is  fpccially  to  be  prea- 
ijCa.io,pa.  15  j,par.2,ca.8,p.j  52.  chcd.  This  the  faith  of  all  the  I 
In^rOj^eri/j  faith  keeps  the  heart  Saints  hath  in  fpeciall  manner  re- 
in an  holy  temper  and  difpofition,  fpcfted,  craved,  embraced,  pav.  i, 
vi^^.in  humility  &  mceknes,p.}f  9  ca.6, p3.7i. 

The  more  we  profper,the  more  Forgiyeneffe  is  both  of  guilt  & 
earneft  be  the  prayers  of  faith,  pa.  punifliment,  par.  i,  ca.  8,  pag 
360.  102. 

Szc  Temporall Blejfmgs,      /Jewi^o«offinsdothpicfuppofc 

themcrcyofGed,  pa.yi. 
Frote£lion.  The  prpmifc  of remijfton  is  made 

of  free  snd  undcfcrved   m:rcy 
The  Lord  (linds  betwixt  his  through  Chiilt,  par.2,  cap.*,  pa, 
children  and  aU  dangers  that  are    3iu,2ii. 

intended  againft  them,  pa.i,ca.6,       As  foone  as  ever  a  man  fecles 

paa,  29  J.  fin  as  a  burden,  hec  is  called,  in- 

It  is  the  promifc  of  our  Savi«   vited,  commanded  to  come  unto 

^  Chnft 


An  AiphMbeticAll  T^hk^ 


C  hriil  to  receive  mercy  and  foi-  finnes  is  to  be  prayed  for.  pag, 

givencflc,  pag.231, 132,234.  &  io», 

par.t.ca.'ii.pa/igo.t^i.  What  is  to  be  done  in  fceking 

The  promife  ofremijfton of  &ns  forgivcneffc  par.*  1.  ca;  a;  pa.-ii  5 . 

is  conditional!,  and  becomes  net  216.117, 

abfolutc  until!  the  condition  be  Why  mennegletSto  feekethc 

fulfilled,  either  a^iually,ortn  de-  pardon ol  their  (in.-pagtii  j. 

fire  and  preparation  of  mind,par.  The  afts  of  faith  conctrnino 

i.ca;7.pa.-  ii6.  the  promife  of  pardon,  png;  21  j^ 

We  cannot  hope  to  have  our  »i4,jif. 

fins  forgiven  if  wee  bee  not  n.adc  Fsith  doth  obtaine,recci  ve  and 


one  with  Chrift  by  faith; pir;  i.e. 
7,pa.-8i. 

Macyand  forgivenefle  is  ficc- 
lypromifcd  thu  we  might  be- 
lieve, and  vouchfafei  to  mm  that 


affure  oi  pirdoa  in  particular,  pa 
218. 

Fsith  afliireth  of  pardon  by  a 
double  ad  pag.iii>. 

Afluianceofpirdon  is  not  an 
doth  believe. par;  i.ca;  z>  pa.-  si  a.  aft  off-nth  iuftifying,  asit  iuftifi 
219.231.  cth.butanad  «f  faith  foliuwing 

The  promife  of  forgivenefle  is   juftification,  pag.-J-i8.219. 
received  by  faith  alone.par.2  ca,a  Sec  Certainty  of  Sahation. 

pag::xT,2i2.  Heethatts  aHiired  ol  pardon. 

The  promifes  of    mercy  in   doth  both  believe  and  knoweth 
Chrift^being  the  higheftandmoft   that  he  bclievctli.p.ig:2 15>. 
fpirimalI,Tt  1$  the  hardeft  point  of       How  we  may  climbe  to  thisaf- 
fervice  in  the  Chriftian  warfare  furanceingoodorderpagmo. 
firmely  to  believe  them.par; I.  ca.-        Prerogatives  that  accompany 
i.pa;4.&ca;7.pa;8j.  this  aflurancc.pjg:  a  20,211. 

It  is  ncceflary  that  we  embrace  Free  remijjlon  and  afliurancc  of 
the  promife  of  forgivenefle  by  a  Gods  love  cannot  puflc  up,  but 
lively  faith*  par;  a.ca;i.pa:  zix.  doth  abafe  the  believer  in  him- 
213.  felfe.pa;2i|. 

That  there  is  forgircneffe  with        Though  fairhceitifie  that  our 
GodjOrthat  finneis  pardonable,   fin$bepaidoncd,yet  many  good 
cannot  be  knowne  by  the  light  of  Chriftians  live  long  in  tcarc  and 
nature,muftbedircernedbyfaith.   doubt.- pag; 227, 
pa:ti3,»i4.  Ttie  caufes  hereof  and  the  rc- 

It  is  caficr  to   fay  fo   muck   medies.pag.2Z7,ia8,2»9  &c 
whiletimcnflecpein  fin,then  to        As  we  believe  to  luftiiication, 
believe  it  when  the  conscience  is   fo  we  niuft  continue  in  b«licving 
awakened  ibid.  for  the  aftuall  pirdoa  of  our  d.i  1 

We  are  commanded  to  aske  the   ly  trefpaflcspa;»2i.«J3,x»4. 
pardon  and  ffir^iveneffc  of  our        Wc  muft  ftill  lookc  to  Chrift 
finnes,  and  have  a  promife  to  bee    for  forgivenefle;  and  faith  look  s 
I  heard  in  that  which  we  dcfire.par.   unto  him  as  a  petitioner,par;  1  c  8 

l,ca.8,pa;ioi,  pa:i04. 

I      In  what  fence  forgivenefle  of       Wee  muft  pray  daily  that  wee 


( 


^n  AlfhfibeticailTahle, 


may  have  greater  .aliurancc  W"on  to  anycimc,peifon,qua>ity 
»'^j«i-  Of  number  oi  offences,  par;  i .  cap 

Wc  fin  dnily  and  nc  to  receive    I  ».p3;  170  pacj.  ca:  2,  pag:  aij, 
aftiiallp.il don  from  G»id  conti-    ^^^, 
nually.ibtd,     \Ve  begg  the  conti- 
nuance cf  hij  giaccj  that  his  mer-  Revereace. 
cifuH  p.ndc  n  may  be  a  gift  with- 

cut  icptntance.  pa:  lef.  That  Mercy  covering  Gn  doth  beget 
w:  mr^y  mere  fully  and  really  pof-  '"efercMfc:  the  more  aflurancc  of 
fcflewhat  we  doe  in  part  inioy.  f^Uation  in  a  mans  feule  the 
ibid  morefcare  and  tramblmg  in  a 

And  that  we  might  be  fet  in   mnns  courfe.  par;  i,  cap;  y.  pao; 
full  and  reall  puffcflion  of  abio-   278.  ^ 

lute  inure  acquittance  when  the  Faith  in  the  threatnings  brinos 
time  of  rcfrefljmg  {hall  eomepa,  ^'^rth  awcfuUncflc.rex'crewfe,  and 
io6.  feare.par.a.cap:ia.pa:4a3, 

H«  that  is  every  day  butied  to 


fue  out  his  pardon  cannot  but  be 
carcfull  not  ro  run  into  fin. par;  i, 
ca!i,pa.  116,217, 

Diredionsto  thcwenkc,to  ftjr 


Riches. 

Thewoildmiiftbe  caft  out  of 
the  affeftions,  pnr;  1 . cap:  u.  pa; 


up  themfclvej  to  believe  the  pro-  1 5^- 
mifc  of  fergivcncfle,  when  they  Ceiift  hath  never  due  tfteeme 
want  the  comfort  ofit,  pa;  x.  j,  vvith  b$,  unlcflc  for  his  fake  wee 
iJ4,&c.  withdraw  our  hearts  from  all  the 

r/c^fr,dclights,honours,and  pro- 
Repenrance.  fits  of  the  world,  pag.  157. 

Not  the  pofleflion  of  earthly 
Faith  and  repentanct  be  infepa-   things  and  delight  in  them,    but 
rablecompanionspar. i.ca:  8.  pa;   that   pofTellion  and  delight    in 
100.  them  which  withholds  us  from 

Repentance  is  ncccffary  to  the  refigning  our  felves  vnto  Chrift 
p.irdon  of  Cn,3s  a  condition  with-  is  forbidden  pa:i  58  par.  i.ca:  xi. 
out  which  it  cannot  be  obtained,    pa:4o6. 

not  as  3  caiife  why  it  is  given  par.       By  faith  a  man  commcth  freely 

l.cap;io  pa:  i^tf,  to  renounce  his  title  and  intercft 

Pardon  of  finne  is  promifed  to  in  tJie  world,and  to  part  wah  any 

themonly  that  confcflc   and  for-   thing  that  might  hinder  mercy. 

fake  their  iniquity.par.  x  'ca;  8.  pa.   par  i  c:  i-pa-  z  1 6. 

119.  We  fliali  cafily  bee  brought  to 

Rcmiflion  of  fin    is  covcnan-  renounce  the  world  for  Chriftj  if 

ted,  fealed, and  confirmed  by  oath   Tve  attentively  confidcr  what  ex- 

to  them  that  repent   and  believe,  cellcnt  &  incompaiable  trcalures 

pa.r  ca.  i.ii.pa;if  t,i  yi,  ofioy,delight  aiid  comfort, are  to 

The  promife  of  pardon  is  made    be  found  in  Jcfus  Chrift,ovcr  and 

to  repentant  finners  without  limi-  above  all  the  world  can  promifi 

01 


An  Aiphslfeticall  T^ble, 


orafFoord.par.i.cap.ii.pag,  1J7.  thing fignified.pag, 402. 
par.2.cap.i.pag.Xi6'&  ca.4,  pag.        Itisncccflary  to  live  by  fiith 
251,  170,  3.7 1.  &  cap.  ^.  pag.  in  the  ufc  of  Gods  ordinances  pag 
576.  °     A^h 

As  the  world  comes  in  upon  us  ^  Faith  is  diligent  in  the  ufe  of 
it  muft  be  oiir  caie  to  cxercife  our  Gods  ordinancef,bat  knoweth  to 
fclrcs  iH  all  good  workes,  and  diftinguifli  betwixt  the  ordinan- 
lookc  that  our  dcGre  of  grace  doc  ccs  in  and  by  which  grace  is  ob- 
giow  and incrcafc.par.  i.cap<ix.  tained,and  the  author  and  giver 
pag. 161.  of  it.par:i.ca.3.pa;i4Z.  &  ca.ii. 

^ic^cr  well  ufed  be  inftru«ents  pa: 40 6. 


of  doing  good.pag.i  j6. 


S. 


tacraments. 


How  to  live  by  faith  in  the  wfe 
of  Gcds  ordinances. par  .a*ca:  1 1. 
pa;40|, 404^40  5.  &  c. 

Cer  taint  ie  of  S^lvathn. 


How  a  true  believer  may  bee 
T^Hc  Word  and  5d<:rdWe»ff  are  cffr/awe  and  infallibly  afliired  of 
"*•  toGhnftiansas  acleareglaffc  theremiffion  of  his  fins  a»dctcr- 
in  which  we  behold  the  glory  of  naUy4/'y<a«'o«.parji.ca;8.  pa;  90, 
GodiaChrift.par.x,cap.  II.  pag  »i. 
404.  BeliefeinChrifl  for  remjfiioB 

The  Sacraments  be  truly  called   is  ftrongcr  and   more   neccflary 
a  vifiblc  word.p.ig.  40 1.  then  affuirancc  of  pardon  apd  for- 

Men  are  admitted  to  the  S<}cr(j-    givenefle.paip^. 
mentshy  men,  and  for  profeflun       By  what  fruits  faith  may  dif- 
of  faith,  when  many  times  they    cover  it  icife  to.bc  flrong  in  fomc 
have  none  indeed  par,  i  .ca.4.  pag.    refpcds,  where  there  is  fmall  af- 
f  I '  fuiancc  of  pardon,  par.  i .  cap.  10. 

Ghriflians  arc  allowed  to  live   pa.  145. 

by  faith, that  by  tl»e  fincere  and  Thcye  is  a  particular  word  or 
confcioaable  u(e  of  the  Word  and  .that  which  is  equivalent  tt/lify 
Sacramtnts  t\\ty  (hall  be  confir-  ing  thus  much,that  my  particular 
media  fa]th,3nd  made  Wife  vnto  pcrfon  beholding  the  Sonne,  and 
falyation.par.i. cap.  ii.pag.  402  believing  on  him,  fliall  have 
4«3.  eternallli£e,par^:r.j  cap..,8.  pag. 

The  iVjrrdjweM^f were  puipofely  ^..  ,    '    ,  r    ' 

ordained  to  helpe  and  confirmc  This  afliwancc  is  not  fijch  as 
our  wcake  faith  par.i.  ca.z.  pag.  that  whereby  a  msn  is  made  ab- 
l^&  ca.ii.pag-i^g.par  a.ca.i«..foluteIyoutof  all  doubt,  pa;  92. 
pag<40>.  par:2.ca.4,pa.2j7. 

There   be  many   promifes  to         The  particular  ^er/arNy  of  re- 

afTure  the  worthy  receiver  ,thit.rc-     mifSottef-finncsis  not   cquall  in 

Ceivingthc  outward  f^ncs  as  hec:    ar/dwrVapd  firm ene fie  0/  afTent 

oughtjhe  fbali  be  p.utakerof  the.   to  the  iffuvaflce  wbjch  wee  haue 

about 


Aft  AlfhaBeticall  Tabic, 


about  the  common  objcft  of  faith 

pa.9r,93.  . 

When  faith  is  grownc  up  and 
hath  outwreftled  te»f  rations  ^vvc 
are  fubjcfk  by  neglcdting  mcancs, 
laying  downe  our  watch,  &c.  to 
loofc  for  a  time  this  comfortable 
pcrfwalioHjpa.oj. 

Affurancc  had  by  extraordina- 
ry revelation,  not  altogether  fcec 
from  fcares  and  doubts,  pa.  1 09. 

Infallible  allurance  of  falva- 
tion  is  to  be  intreated  for,  and 
may  be  obtained,  pa. 97' 

The  falvation  of  a  believer  is  as 
infallible  in  it  felfc,  and  in  event, 
as  is  the  Word  of  God  :  but  al- 
waies  it  is  not  fo  in  his  apprchcn- 
lion  and  feeling,  pa,  108,109. 

Ignorance  of  the  exad  multi- 
tude and  greatncffc  of  our  oftcnccs 
IS  no  barre  or  hinderance  to  the 
ccrtaintieof  falvation,pa  log. 

Immediate  &  pcifeft  aflurancc 
might  pcradventure  by  the  cor- 
ruption of  oar  nature  be  abufed 
tofccurity,  pa.i  11. 

Full  allurance  not  to  be  difal- 
lowcd  becaufe  of  the  erill  that 
might  enfue  to  us  thereby  abufing 
thefame,pa.ii2. 

The  aflurancc  which  a  godly 
man  hath  of  his  falv'ation  is  ever 
joyned  with  afaithfull  and  con- 
fcionable  care  to  walke  uprightly, 
par.  I,  ca.f,  pa.  65.  &  ca.S,  pa. 

I20. 

True  aflurancc  breeds  tncreale 
of  refolution  and  care  to  pleafe 
God,  dcteftationoffmnejunfai- 
ned  abafcmentjcontinuall  watch- 
fulncHc,  ardent  love,  and  joy  un- 
fpeak.'.blcpa.iiijTZt* 

The  godly  mans  aflurancc  of 
Gods  favoui  w  II  ftand  well  with 
reverence  of  his  M'jcftie,     and 


fearc  of  tcmporall  afEidions,8cc. 
par.j,  ca.i2,p3.4i4. 

What  infirmities  may  ftand 
with  aflurancc  of  falyaiion,  par. 
i,ca.8,pa.ii5,ii6. 

Vfhat  finnes  hinder  aflurancc, 
pa.iiSjii. 


SanRif  cation. 

What  San^ificati»n  is,  par.  «, 
ca.3,pa.zj7. 

Vndcr  what  tcarmcs  it  is  promi- 
fcdinSaipturCjpa.  ij7,ij3. 

He  that  fceth  himfcUe  mifera- 
blc  by  finnc,  though  hee  can  fee 
nograce  inhisfoule,  is  called  to 
come  unto  Chrift  to  receive  from 
him  the  grace  of  SanHificatiMis 
well  as  remiHion,  par.i,ca  2,  pa. 
zji  &  cap.j,  p3.i38.  &  cap.6. 
pa.jo2,?o}. 

Chnftians  are  allowed  to  be- 
lieve the  promifcs  of  Sanilifita- 
tioH,  par.  2  ,ca .  J  ,pa.  2  3  8 . 

It  t's  ncceffary  to  bcleevc  thefe 
promifes,  par.  i,ca.5,pa.fl2,p3C2,, 
ca.j  pa. »39, 240,24.1. 

Thefe  promifcs    bee  of  great  | 
price ,    «nd    faith   fweetly    fcc- 
deth  upon  them,  par.i,ca.5,  pa 

Thcbcliefcofth^fe  promifcsis- 
ftirring  and  operative,ibid. 

Belicfe  that  God  wil  inible  the 
fiithfull  to  every  duty  he  doth  rc- 
cjuira,  is  an  exceeding  furtherance 
untogodlineflcjibid.  p.ir.2,  C3.3, 
pag.  240. 

The  afts  of  faith  concerning 
the  promifcs  ofSan^i^Cdiien^'^^t. 
2,ca  5, p.i. 241,24 i,&c. 

Mcancs  to  quicken  taith  in  tec- 

lieving  that  God  will  [anSlijie, 

when'  wee  fee  nothing  but  tluraU 

domc 


Ah  AiphAbeticAUTabU, 


dome  and  imprcva1hng.pag.x453 
Z46,&c. 

Why  God  doth  not  peiieflly 
fanSife  us  at  ©nce,but  by  dcgiccs. 
pag.  145. 


Scripture. 


and  power,par.2,cap.  lo^pa.jp^, 
397- 

Chiift  luth  never  duceftecme 
with  uSjUnlefle  for  his  fake  we  dc« 
nie  our  felves  ;  that  ia  ali  things 
wee  might  bee  confoimable  unto' 
his  will  and  plc^fiue,  par.  i  jCa  1 1 , 
pa.  I  J  7. 

Sinne. 


Things  are  contained  in  Scrip' 
tare  expreflely,or  by  confcquencc. 

par.  i^  ca,8  J  pa.97.  Sinne  is  properly  all  that  wee 

What  the  Scriptures  Tay  to  all  haveofour  owne,  pat.i^ca.iijpa, 
men,  they  fay  to  every  man,  what    jj6. 

to  penitents,  to  every  penitent,  Tho  caufe  of  all  miferie  and 
v\hat  to  believers,  to  every  belie-  forrow  is  yj^ec,  par-i,  ca.7,  pag. 
ver,  pa  97,98.  311. 

Every  part  of  divine  infpircd  The  defertefyia  is  farre  greater 
truth  is  worthy  of  all  beliefs  and  then  any  thing  we  (uffer  ;  which 
reverence^ par,  1,0.1.5, pa. 5; 9.  Ihould  pcrfwade  to  meekencfle in 

Whatfoever    is    delivered    in  our  fufierings,  pag.  5  i».  } 

5crip/Mrc  is  to  be  believed,  but  fo  An  imnaoderate  aggravation  | 
farre  forth  only  as  it  is  intended  o(  ftnne  and  eontinaall  thought  f 
to  bee  held  for  true  by  the  Holy  of  unworthincfle  makes  many  j 
Gholl  the  author  of  the  Scripture,  doubt  o£  Gods  mercy,  par.a,ca.2.  j 
pa.  5  9=60,  pag.  it7.  |, 

Divine  rcvel.itions  onely  be  of       There  is  a  difference  of  finnes ; ' 
certaine  and  infallible  truth,  pag.   pag.  i  18 ,119, 
59.  Such  as  walke  in  the  light  and 

Whatfoever  wee  conceive  of  have  fcllowfliip  with  God,  are 
God  bcfidcshisword  itisimagi-  Ji«»e»"fjpar.i,ca.S,p3.ii  5.  ■ 

nation,  prefumption,  opinion, but       Who  are  the  fervants  ofj5w»e,  j 
fait  hit  is  not,  par.  1,  ca.  4,  pag.  pa.116.       ,  1 

153.  Grievous  and  notorious^;jn<;rj  • 

muft  dctcft  theiryJ/JWCjbut  not  »ief.  i 
Selfe-deniaM.  paire  of  Gods  mercy,  par.  2,  ca.z,  j 

pa.22S,a34.par.  ijca.it  pa.  176.    j 
For  the  right  plantation  of  faith       Sinnes  of   Gmple  ignorance, 
it  is  needfull  t©  denie  our  felves,    meere  frailty  and  unayoideablc  ! 
our  defireSjIufts  and  afteftions  j  to    infirmitie  doe  not  flop  the  lively 
make  over  all  intereft  in  our  lives    worke  of  faith  in  receiving  the} 
or   whatfoever    is    deare    unto    promifesof  mercy,  par.  i,ca.8,pa, 
uJ,  &c,    paM*"p.ii,pag.i5  5,    n6. 
I  $6.  f iji»Cf  of inconfideration,  for- 

Faith  eaufeth  /elfe-JniaU  n  ra.  getfulnefle,  and  paflion  whcreun-  1 
fpeft  of  judgement,  wifedotnc,  to  there  is  not  advifedconfent,  | 
™ayl 


An  Alphaffeticall  Tabic, 


may  be  mihc  godly  wichout  any 
notable  de fed  of  fauli,  pig.  ii7> 

loftns  of  frailty  God  is  pica, 
fed  to  grant  a  pardoa  of  courfc, 
par.»,ca.:,  pag.nj.  &  par.i,ca  8, 

pag.  117. 

Foule  and  enormous  crimes 
wafling  confcicncc  luuiU  they  bcc 
repented  of,  hmdtr  afliuance  and 
aftuall  clniine  to  the  pronufcs  of 
etcrnall  lite,  pig  1 18,115. 

What  the  godly  loofe  if  they 
fall  into  foule  and  enormous );«/, 
ibid. 

If  a  man  have  oft  fallen  into 
groffe  and  notorious  fins  hec  is 
not  to  dcfp  ircj  but  ferioufly  to 
confeflc  and  foilake  his  finne 
tliat  he  may  obtame  meicy,  par.i, 
I  ca  iz,  pag  176,  par.*,  ca.»,  pag. 

A  foule  oftencc  after  grace  re- 
ceived is  not  unpardonable,  pag. 
129,250 

The  abfolute  raigne  of  finne 
will  not  ftand  with  the  ftate  of 
grace,  par.  i,  cap. 8,  pag.  119, 
120. 

Sohr'wy. 

Solriety  wherein  it  ftandeth, 
par.»,ca.8,pagg^j. 

Faith  worketh  the  heart  to 
ffbriety  and  moderation,! bid. 

Faith  tcachcth  to  moderate 
cares,  confine  defiles  of  earthly 
things,  and  commit  ourfelvcsto 
God  for  fuGcefTc  of  our  \-»ovk,  par. 
t,caio,pa.593,394' 

Sorrorv. 

Except  wc  feele  the  tartneffe  of 
finne  wee  cannot  well  rcLfhthe 


fwectn«ffe  of  Chrifb  death,   par. 
I,  ca.  1 1,  pag.  161, 

All  have  not  like  meafurc  of 
/b/roa>  fer  finne,  pa.i,ca.i2,pa, 
J71. 

Not  an  extraordinary  mcafurc 
of /onow, bat  forrorv  to  fcifc  deni- 
al lis  requu:ed,  par.2,  ca.2,  pag. 
ii8. 

It  is  good  to  grieve  becanfe  we 
can  grieve  ao  more  for  finne ;  but 
to  doubt  of  mercy  bccaufe  wee 
iiAve  felt  no  greater  houour,  is 
great  weakeneffe,  par,  i,  ca.  12, 
pig.  171. 

The  thtcatnings  mingled  witlv 
faith  cMiie  forrowfuU  meltmg  anil 
relenting  oi  heart  for  finne  com- 
mitted, par.t,  c.i.ii,pa.424,4if. 
In  true  forrvtv  and  biokea  hear- 
tedneffe  faith  and  other  graces 
may  bee  infolded,  poi  IjCa.jjpag. 
|3. 

ThefpiiitswafteJ  with  violent 
and  csntmuall  forrow  cannot  pre- 
fciuiy  recover  their  former  livxli- 
neflcand  ability,  par.>jca.6,pag, 
511. 

Spirit. 

The  Spirit  ol  God  is  the  prin_ 
cipall  woiKcr  of  faick,  par.  t,ca.2. 
pag  8. 

The  Word  cannot  work  v«ith- 
O'Jt  the  Spirit,  and  ordinarily  the 
Spirit  will  not  workc  witliout  the 
Word,pa,  13. 

How  we  are  faid  to  receive  the 
Spirit  by  faith,  and  yet  faith  is  the 
workeofthc$p/rrr,  par.i,ca.2, 
pag.8,p3r.2,ca4,pag.2  5  3. 

How  the  .5]jirJr  is  obtained  by 
pr.iyer,   and  yet  prayer  is  an  aii 


otihc  Spirit,  pir. 
8. 


I,  cap.  2,  p.i& 
The' 


An  AfphAhtic4BT4lfle, 


ThcSpirlt  doih  notcquallym- 
cite  all  men  to  bclick-e ,  but 
whom  he  will^ni  joyne  his  effi- 
cacie  to  the  vroid  in  whom  hec 
will,pa.9,i4. 

The  Spirit  is  received  by  faith 
ai  the  earneft  of  our  heavenly  in- 
heritance,  par.ij  ca.4,  pa.  ijgj 

-SI- 
ThtSpirit  is  lent  into  our  hearts 

to  dwell  and  rcmainc  witkus  for 

ever,  pai-,i,ca.5,pa.x7  5, 

If  ftands  us  upon  to  nourifh  the 
motions  «f  Gods  Spirit,  and  by 
fervent  prayer  to  intreate  the  con- 
tinuince  of  his  prcfencc,par.  i ,  ca; 
Il,pi.i64. 

The  Lord  divcrfly  gives  evi- 
dence of  his  Spirits  prefence  in  us, 
par.i,ca.ii,pa.x7^. 

The  witncffc  of  the  Spirit  is  no 
vocall  teftimonie  which  ccrtifycth 
us  againft  doubts  andfeares,  pi. 
179. 

Lord:  Supper. 


T. 

SpirituaHTafie. 

Faith  ii  the  SpirituaU  Tafi  o( 
thcfoulc,  par.ijca  5,pa37,&c3, 
4,  pa.  40.  See  Faith. 

Faith  altcrcth  the  tafi  of  every 
appetite,  par.  2,  cap.  9,  pag. 
378. 

When  wee  have  foundly  and 
truely  ta/ied  Imjw  good  and  gra- 
tious  the  Lord  is.  we  cannot  but 
love  and  afFcft  him  intirely,par.  i, 
ca.4,pa.47. 

Faith  cannot  favour  earthly 
bleflingf ,  unlcfle  it  tafi  Gods  love 
and  feed  upon  his  goedncfle  in 
them, .  par. »,  cap.  8,  pag.  361, 
J  64. 

SpiritmU  Tafi  is  diftempercd 
with  Temptations froHi  without, 
and  fpirituall  difeafes  from  with> 
in,  par.  I, ca.  3, pa.  3  8. 


There  arc  many  promifes  made 
in  the  Word  to  affurc  the  worthy 
receiver,  that  receiving  the  out- 
ward fignes  in  the  Lords  Supper, he 
{hall  bee  partaker  of  the  thing 
Ggnified,  par.*,  ca.  |i,  P^4*3i) 
401. 

It  is  not  the  having  of  faith 
but  the  new  exercife  of  faith 
which  makes  us  worthy  re- 
ceivers of  the  Lords  Supper,  pag . 
41^. 

The  afts  of  faith  in  receiving 
the  Lvrds  Supper,  pa,  416,  417, 
&c. 

Meancs  co  ftirre  up  our  fclves 
to  receive  the  Lords  Supper  in. 
faith,  pa.4aO;4£!. 


Temptations. 

Chriftians  muft  looke  to  be  af- 
failed  by  Sathan  with  inwarj 
fuggeftions  and  outward  tempta- 
tions, par.  x,ca»<t,pa.a50. 

Sathan  ufeth  all  meanes  to 
weaken  faith,  yea  i^uite  to  fub- 
yert  and  overthrow  it,  par.i,cap. 
II,  pag.  158.  &  cap.  ijh  pag, 
16$. 

Faith  is  incontinuall  combite 
with  temptations  arifing  from  na- 
ture, ignorance,  infidelity,  diffi- 
dence, the  wifedome  of  the  flefh, 
&c.  par.i,c2.io,p.Ti4Z. 

The  methods  of  Satan  and  his 
ends  in  tempting,  are  divers,  par.2, 
ca,6,pa.zp6,»^8,a§^. 

What 


An  Alph4htic0UTAyie, 


What  temptations  from  Satan,  tan,  and  made  many  piomifes  of 
the  World  and  theflelh  wee  arc  flrength  and  victory,  pag.  25,0, 
fubjed  unto  in  affliftions,  par.  2,    a^i. 

ca.7,  pa. a  1 7,  In  the  ftate  of  terr.ptation  the 

In  great r.ffliaions,  pa.  3  3<5.        gcdiy  are  allowed  to  Ixlievethc 
The  ftiongdl  faich  is  fiilijcift    promifcsof  vjdory,  pa.z^i  252 
to  ftrcng/c;»^7ar/{>«r,p;r. i,ca  II,    29^. 

p.  I  JO.  and  fometimcj  the  llrcng       It  is  neccflary  a  Chriftian  fliould 
have  fallen  when  the  weakc  hive    livcbyfajth  in  temptation,  pag. 
itocd  couiagioiifly,  par.i,ca.i2,    i9j,»94,&c. 
P'lg  iSo.  The  adsof  faith  inrefpeiflof 

What   finncs  God  doth  ufu-    temptations, ^^%^<),i^6^S>ic. 
ally  chaftcn   in  his    children  by        Faith   difcovcrs  all   the  plots, 
temptation,  pag.  171,  175,  176,    fornfieth  the  foule  againft  all  in- 
178,  J  80.  valions  and  afl:.uhs  of  Satan,  pa. 

How  God  confines  and  litrits    SQij'J^jjpSjijg. 
Satan  m  tempting,    and  dire(fl^        If  Satan  aflault  with  blafphc- 
thc  temptation  to  fuch  an  end  a*s    inoiis  temptations j  wee  arc  not  to 
he  never  intendcd,par.ijca.6,pjg.    reafon  with  him,  but  to  make  our 
»$5,296,  complaint  unto  the  Lord,  pig. 

,     Faith  ovcrcommcth  the  World,    25>ff,t97j^ojj3o6j07, 
th.it  IS,  whatfocvcr  within  us  or        Solitary   and    pcnfive  mufing 
without  us  would  draw  us  from    on  the  temptatiom  of  Satan,  gi»es 
thcLawof  Godjpar.  i3ca.ic,pa.    h/m  the  more  liberty  to /c»2/)/-,pa. 
132,135, pnr.r,ca9,pa.576.  a9«,io8, 507. 

The  weakcll  faith  is  ftrong  When  Satans  temptations  arc 
through  the  power  of  Chrifl  to  moft  fiery,  wemuli  thenbemoft 
vanquifliSatan,vind  overcome  the  diligent  in  the  praftife  ofgodli- 
world,  par.i,ca,  io,pag.i46,&c.  nefle,  and  the  labours  of  our  ho- 
&  ca.  1 2,  pa.i  80.  ncfl  caUing,   pa.  297,  298,^08, 

God  in  his  wife  providence  gi-    309,5  10. 
vcth  the  greatcft  meafure  of  fauh        We  miift  not  think  this  coinCc 
to  them,  who  are  to  undcrgoe  the    vaine  and  fniitleflc,  bcaiufc  wee  j 
greateftcombatos,  pag,i4»,  find  more  dulneflc  and  fluggiflj. 

Aflurance  of  faith  doth  enable    ncfle  then  formerly,  pag.  3  1 1. 

When  Satan  ^cwf^jwithgrca- 
tefl  rage  and  furie,  then  his  temp- 
tations are  nearcftto  an  end,  pa. 
300. 

If  Satan  renew  his  aflaults,  or 
fhift  his  temptations,  taith  doth 


with  more  cafe  to  overcome  the 
world,  pa.l47}» 49. 

Faith  IS  not  llothfullnor  felfe- 
c6nfi<^ent    in     refifting     Satans 

Faith  hghteth  againfl  tcmptati 


onf  and  allurements  unto  Cnnc  by  not  faint,  nor  cetJfcto  make  re 

the  power  of  Chnlt,  par.2,  ca,p,  Cftance,pa.30o,5oi. 
p3^  ,  -5.  In  temptations  the  poorc  foule 

God  hath  given  Chriftians  m.i.  eying  the  promifc  by  faith,  bc- 

ny  encouragements  to  refift  Sa-  takes  it  felfe  unto  the  Lord  for 


li 


fuccour 


Ah  Alphabet icall  Table, 


fuccoar  proimfca,  zaA  relies  up ja 
his  grace,  pi.i97,?o  7,508. 

M:an;s  co  ft/rre  up  ourfclvas 
to  hvi  by  faich  ia,  tini;  of  grie- 
vous tCTipt  it  o.is,  334.,^^. 

In  the  atonic  of  Coaic;en:e 
none  moie  unfit  to  juige  of  our 
ftatejthen  we  of  our  ow-ie^  pit .  i, 
ca.ii,  p.i.i74. 

In  the  exaoiination  anJ  triall 
of  our  eftites  we  co:ii3iit  nof  nill 
errors  in  time  of  temptation,  p.i. 


ThxnJizfulneJfc. 

Fa'th  difpofcth  the  heart  to 
thailiefu'nep,  par.»,ca.S,pj.  j  yj,^ 
Ji6  &  cap.  ,0,  pa..  55,, 
395,599. 

Tru:  taith  ftirreth  up  to  fj&«ijj^- 
fulmfe  for  the  beginning  of  fan - 


cap.  5,  pag 


o* 


ft.fi;acioa,    pir,  a 

Living  by   faith  in   times  of 

• "iali  and  vilicacioa  doth  fit  and 

By  extremity  of  temptation  the  p.cpare  the  h»art  to  thinkfulne/Te 

godly  are  fomctimes  broagh:  fo  when  light  IhUI  ftine  from  on 

low,    thK  they  can  difcerne  no  high,  and  chat  fo  much  the  more 

Iparke  of  faith,  nofruit  ofgra:e,  as  the  affliaions  have  beene  the 

normarke  of  Godslo/e  inthe  n-  fhirper,  orof  longer  continuance 

felves,pa.50i.  How  this  cones  to  p-ir.i,  ca  7,  pa.j4i.  / 

pafle,p^50 1,501.  The  remedies  in        In  receiving  the' Lords  Supper 

thisdiftreCc,  p.ig.J02, 305,304.  faith  fiirreth  up  joy  and /W^eftf/- 

Sqc  Grace.  nejfe,  with  ferious remembrance' 

Ood  imputes  not  to  hi  sfervants  of  the  manifold  benefits  and  blef 

the    hellilh  thoughts    fuggelted  fings  which  ia  Chrift  Jefus  are 

by  Satan  into  their  mmdes,  which  vouchfafed,  par.>.  ca  1 1  pa  a.iq 

they  confent  not  to,    pag.  506,  420.  >v  >*  ift 

3°7:  When  by  faith  in  Chrift  we  fee 

i  he  bcncfats  that  come  unto  our  felvcs  fct  free  from  the  dread- 

m  by  temptatms,  par,  i,  ca.8,  pa.  full  curfes  of  the  Law,  our  hearts 

^  \\'  .  ,    ,  ^^^  inlarged  in  praife  and  tlunkf- 

How^e«iw«/.o«fworkeforthc  giving,  par. j,  ca.iz,  pa.^i,. 
fpeciall  good  of  Gods,  fervants,  »  r    *  ). 

par.2,ca.^,  pa.3o&,5C)^. 

Faith  difcernes  that  temptation?.  Threatnims. 

lerve  for  the  fcouring  of  the  Lords 

veffels,  and  for  the  encrcafe  of       God  is  equally  to  be  believed 

thcirgraces,  pag.301  in  his  threatningi  and  promifcs. 

Summer  fruits  of  faith  are  not  par.2,ca.,2,  pa.42i,4ii. 
tobeexpeaedm/c/»/?d/i(,»f,par.        Beliefc  of  the  threatninzs  is 

'''^t^'f'^W^l'      r  "'"^^'•y'   ^^''  h  cap.  y,^pag. 

What  fruits  of  faith  are  feafo,    64.  f    ?j   r  6 

nable  in  temftation^ibid.  The  threatninzs  are  ftrong  bri- 

dies  to  keepe  from.naughtincfle, 
par.  i,ca.  y,pa.<5  j,  par.»,ca,i  i,pa. 
4iJ,4Hj4iy. 

.  Firmc  affent  to  the   accotn- 
plifh* 


jin  AlfhAketicAaTahle, 


plifhment  <A  divine  thrtatnirgs 
doth  beget  humiliation  fcr  (inne 
paft,  and  vigil.incic  to  ihunnc 
iin  and  efcape  danger,  ibid. 

The  Gcdly  are  w.ftly  to 
believe  the  thrcatnings  to  pre- 
vent falling   into    (inne,-    p.ig. 

The  tnrtncfleofthc  tljTcatnivg 
makts  us  bill  taft  the  fwcetntflj 
oi  the  promif^.ibid. 

As  wcc  fctic  God  to  bee  true 
in  h  s  threats  Co  wee  may  bee 
nflurcd  hce  will  not  f.iilc  of  his 
promifcj,    pai'.  2,  cap    7,   pag> 

The  ads  cf  faith  inrcTpcffc  of 
the  threatnirgty  par.z,  ca.  ii,pag. 


V. 


yertue. 


No  owie/Zcx'frcanplcafeGod, 
par.jjca.r.pa.i. 

The  mother  of  unheliefe  is  ig. 
noiance  ofGcd,  his  faithfulnellej 
mercy,  and  pcv\er,  par.  a,  cap.i, 
pa  297. 

Mms  wilfulntfle  the  radicall 
and  pnme  caiife  of  obftinatcaw- 
beliefe  p.ir,  i  cap.  j  p.ig. ,  j. 

Eftcds  of  vnbeliefe.  pag.  icj 
2©4,&c, 

Vttkrfiandhg. 

F.iith  is  in  the  mdcTfianding^ 
pir  i,ca.j,pig.3o. 

^^nder/andirg  is  the  gift  of  Gods 
giace  par.  I  cap.i  pag  1  o. 

In  producing  faith  God  doth 
fiiltLertow  upon  man  the  gift  of 
"Vnderflanding  ibid. 
Jt  IS  .1  worke  irrefiftiblc.ibid. 


The  tiuc  caufc  why  men  la- 
bour m  vaine  to  pra(ftif«  fome 
pni-ticular  vertue,  par.  i,  ca.  j,  pa, 
144. 


Vnbeliefe. 

How  Infidelity  or  Vnbeliefe 
»ri.iy  hce  found  out  and  made 
ofi  ous,  par.»jCa.ijpag.2o2ji0  3, 
»04,&c. 

The  heart  that  clcaveth  not 
fiedfcftly  unto  God  is  incredu- 
lous, par.  I ,  ca  j,  pag  5  2. 

The  manifcld  icbellions  of 
Ifrael  in  the  wilderneflc  are  cal- 
led «Ktf«efc,  pi. ^j. 

Z;»|re/fe/fdiftjonoursGod,  and 
hurts  a  mans  owne  foulc,  par.  s. 
ca.  I,  pag.  20  5, 106. 


ynion. 

By  faith  wc  are  radically  vnited 
untoChiJlt.p.n*.  I.  cap  .4.  pag.  41. 
&  ca.io  pag  ig2. 

The  fecoiidary  «»»»«  whereby 
the  foule  clcaveth  uiuo  God  more 
and  more  is  by  meancs  of  the  afie- 
ftionsj  par. I, ca. 4, pa  52. 

Thcwcalftil  filth  J  if  true  and 
lively,  doth  fiimely  andinfcpara- 
bly  knit  unto  Chrift,  par,  i,ca.io, ! 
pa.  1 46,1 4  J. 

The  flronger  our  faith,  the 
more  firmc  and  clofe  is  our  ttnioH 
withChrift,  pa.  148. 

Aftcra«ifl»followeth  Commu- 
nion with  Chrift,  Juftification, 
Adoption,  Sauftificatien,    par.  1 , 

I  i  fr       VnworthineJ/e. 


An  Alphabetica&Table^ 


Vnworthinejfe. 

If  any  be  confounded  in  confcf, 
cncc  of  his  owne  wretchcdnefle, 
him  doth  the  Lord  intfeatc  and 
pcrfwade  to  come  for  cafe  and  rc- 
frcfhing,  par. i  ,ci. x  i,pag.i y  4. 

Tlie  (cncc  o(  om  umorthineje 
jftould  make  us  to  denje  our 
jelves,  not  difcourage  us  from  be- 
lee/ing,  par.  i,  ca.  iz,  pag.  i5y, 

par,»,ca.x,pag.z»7,  iz8^»34,& 
ca.4,p3g.26j. 


The  meafure  of  faith  is  fodi- 
vidcd  by  divine  providence,  that 
to  none  who  are  called  accordincr 
tohitpurpofe,  is  given  le0c  then 
may  fuffice  to  their  falvatioji,pai-. 
f,  ca.io,  pag.142. 

EfFeauall  vocation  is  a  pledge 
and  token  of  glorification  to 
enfue,   par.  r,  ca.  j^  pjg.  jgo. 

t^pr^Jf  walking  is  neceflary 

butnotthecaufeofJuMcation, 
par.i,ca.g,pag.ii5. 

The  weakeft  faith  gives  will 
and  ability  in  fome  fort  to 
walkcuprightlj,  par.  i,  cap.  10, 
pag.,46.  "^  ^      ' 


W. 

f^atchfulnefe. 

Faith  is  jealous,  vigilant,  Icaft 
the  heart  ihould  bedrawneaway 


withpleirmgdelight»,par.ajca.8. 

Faith  jn  the  proniifes  of  pcrfe- 
vcrance  begets  care  to  fhiin  the 
occifionsoffirine,  ^ni  watchful' 
nejfc  to  prevent  fpirituall  diftem- 
pcrs,  paF.2,ca.j,pa,r8a. 

Satan  is  vigilant  to  tempt,  as 
he  can  efpic  his  opportunity  ;  and 
faith  is  watchjuU  to  avoid  the 
fnare,  or  withftand  the  aflault. 
par.3,ca.6,  pa.zf  9, 

Faith  in  the  thrcatnings  ftfireth 
up  continuall  watchfulnes  to  fliun 
whatfocvcr  might  Ijreed  danger, 
or  procure  Gods  difpleafure,  par. 
z,  ca  1 2,  pa.414. 

Faith  may  llumber  for  a  little 
feafon,  but  the   propertie  of  it 
when  lively  and  in  good  plicrht 
is  to  keepe  waking,  pag.  2^9. 

Warfare. 

Our  Warfare  doth  laft  during 
l'fe,par.i,ca.3,pag.3<5. 


Weah^nejfe, 

Ot  our  felvcs  vtce  have  no 
ki-ength  either  before  or  after  our 
converfion  to  prevaile  againftthe 
enemies  of  our  falvation,  par.2, 
ca.^,pa.2,4.  '\ 

Feeling  »e«^Me/cof  faith  wee 
muftlooke  up  to  Chrift,  par.2,ca. 
ijpa.108. 

Faith  acquaints  a  man  with  his 
ov^ac»ealinejfe  and  inability  for 
the  worke  of  Sanftification,  par. 
2,ca3,psg.24i. 

Faith  makes  fenfible  of  our 
weaknejl  and  inability  to  pcrfe- 
vere  in  grace  received^  par.z,  cap, 

5- 


Ah  Aifha^eticdll  Tabic, 


y,  pag.  282.  Confeffeth  and  be-       Why  all  doe  not  belicye  that 
wailcs  It,  pa. 287,188.  '^"rc  the /fori,  pa.  13^x4. 

Faith  makes     us    confcioiis    of       Though  the  If^ori  do  not  work 
our  owne  we4J^Mf//(? in  bearing  af-   ^^"^h  without  the  Spirit,  yet  all 
flidionj,  and  raUcth  the  heart  to   men  muft  give  attendapcc  toit 
reft  upon  the  Lord  for  ftrcngth,  pag,  1 4. 

par.  a,  ca,  7,  pag.  jzo,  3  ip,  no>       ^he  jrordis  both  the  meancs 
III,  whereby  wc  belie  vc,and  the  fub. 

jeft  of  our  beliefc,  pa.  i  j. 

Witliout  the  JVord  no  faith^ 
J^ifedomc.  par.  i,  ca  3 ,  pa.  1 5. 

Faith  is  grounded  upon  the 
If^ifedomc  diftmguidicd  from    /^<w</of  God  fimplydirinc,  fub- 
knowledgc which  it  prefuppofeth,   jc(fl  to  nocrrour,  par,  i,ca.9,pa, 
par.i,ca.3,pa.i<S.  J  2^»  &  ca,4jpa.^|. 

Faith  a  wife  gift  or  grace  of  The /foriof God  once  fpoken 
God,  par.  I,  c3.i,pa.io,  &ca.j,  ^nd  often  reiterated  is  of  equall 
P-J-  If.  certainty  in  It  felfc,  par.  i,  ca,8. 

By  faith  a  man  is  made  wife  to   pa-iio. 
difcerne  what  is  lawfull,   good       The  paitsof  thc/^or</,  par.x, 
and  fcafonable,  par. 2,  ca.p,  pag.   <^'''«i,  pa. 209. 
17^'  That  wee  might  live  by  faith. 

Faith    tcachcth    tfifedeme   to   vve  muft  bee  acquainted  with  the 
judge  arightofaffli(flions,  andfo    ff^ordy  both  promifes  and  Corn- 
makes   us   willing    to  give  our   mandcments,  par.2,ca,ijpa.ip8, 
ncckcs  to  the  yoke,  par.2,  ca.7,    ^99- 
pa.5 17,542.  Wee  muft  cxercifc  faith  in  the 

Having  no    nvifedome  of  our   /:^*r//,  pa,joo,&c, 
felvcs  to  make  ufc  of  chaft.fc-        Fafth  ponders  the  IVord  fcri- 
ments,    faith  teacheth  to  fcekc   ouHy,  andtrcafurcjitupfafc,  pa. 
unto  God  by  prayer ,    that  bee    -°I' 

would  teach  us  to  profit  by  them.  Lively  faith  fecdcth  on  the 
iiiew  uswhatisamifle,  andcna-  '^o^»/^nd«,Pf:)ica^th^ar.i,ca.i  i, 
Weustopcrfotmctt,pa.338,339,  pa.  i52. 

3  40,  Faith  believing  perfeverancc  in 

grace  feeds  upon  the  Word  of  Life, 

par.2,c:.f,pa.283. 

Word.  Then:  be  many  promifes  made 

to  them  that  confcionably  kear- 

Ordinarily   the    Holy   Ghoft  ken  to  the  JVord,  that  God  will 

J  doth  workc  faith  by  the  Minifte-   t)I«fle  it  to  their  cofort,  ftrencthe- 

ry  of  the  ^or</,  par.  i,  ca.  a,  pa.   ning  in  grace  and  cverlafting  fal- 

'  I^  "  vation,  p3r.2,  cap. it,  pag  400, 

'      The^f^oriisbutaninftrument,  401. 

'  whereby  it  plcafeth  God  to  work,  Thcfc  promifes  bee  firmc 
I  ibid.  grounds,  whereupon  the  faithfulli 
' li  I  may' 


An  AlfhaheticAUTabh, 


n^ny  build  theic^  affianccj  that  by 
the  confcionable  ufe  of  the  word 
they  fliali  be  made  v>ifc  unto  fal- 
vation.  pa,4©x,40j. 

It  is  not  the  having,  but  the 
new  exerafeoffaith  which  raakes 
usprofitable  hearers  of  the  ^or./, 
pa.  403. 

The /fori  of  God  denbunceth 
deftriidion  to  the  workers  of  ini- 
quity, pAr.t,ca.4,pag.f?. 

The  promifc  of  pardon  recei- 
ved by  f.iith  is  of  free  gracc,which 
will  not  ftand  with  the  dignity 
ofwer^ej,  par.x,cap  a,pag.iii. 

Men  truely  juft  and  holy,  and 
rich  in  all  mann^  r  of  good  wor^ff, 
as  Abraham,  muft  Itill  acknow- 
ledge thcmfclves  unprofitable 
fervantSj  pag.jx2.  Sccap.g,  pag. 

383. 

Life  cternall  is  given  of  grace 
not  foldfor»o»"^ef  J  received  6y 
faith,  not  purch.ifed  by  defertj 
par.»,ca.4,  pa.i^jjlsa. 

F.^ith  doth  not  begin  to  appre- 
hend life,  and  leave  the  accom- 
plifhment  to  worker ,but  doth  reft 
upon  the  promife  of  life  untiU  we 
ccmc  to  enjoy  it/pai'.*,  cap.4,  pa. 


A  preparation  or  promptitude 
of  heart  to  good  ivorf^es  is  an  e  ffeft 
of  faith  as  immediate  as  Juftilica- 
tion,  par.  i,ca,4,pa.  57. 

E^^tcrnall  yporl^s  which  are 
outwardly  vifible  and  apparant 
to  men,  cannot  be  the  life,  but 
arc  the  fruits  and  cffcds  of  faith, 
par.i,ca4.pa.4J.4f. 

Faith  brings  forth  good  wor^ef, 
and  the  better  fry  it  "it  bringeth 
the  fafter  itgrowcth,  par,  i,  ca. 
ii.pa.i^2. 

Diff:rencc  betweenc  thcwor^ef 
of  the  Temporarie  and  unfained 
Believer,  pir.ijCXo, pi,  581.  I 

To  dta  civill  and  naturall  worhji , 
without  feare,  reverence  and  duc\, 
conGderation  is  a  fruit  of  unbe- 
licfe,  pag.  2,3  cap.  I J  pag.  2  05. 

Jf^orld  or  lenorUly  plea/uretf 

profits  and  hofioui s  : 

See  Riches. 

JVorJhfp. 

Faith  efleemcthjapproveth  and 
cxei-cifech  th^tworjhip  which  God 
prefcribeth,  par.i,  cap.iij  pag. 
404. 

It  quirkencfh  to  ferveGodin 
all  his  ordinances  with  diligence, 
chcaircfulnrfle  and  befl  endea- 
vouij  pag. 40 <^. 


Date  D- 


234.2        B187T 


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